Pixie-Bob vs Sphynx

Which cat breed is right for you?

Pixie-Bob

Size
8–17 lbs
Lifespan
13–15 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
Moderate
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Loyal Social Bold Active

Sphynx

Size
6–12 lbs
Lifespan
8–14 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
Moderate
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Social Energetic Curious Affectionate

About the Pixie-Bob

The Pixie-Bob was developed in the Pacific Northwest of the United States beginning in 1985, bred to resemble the North American coastal bobcat. This large, muscular cat weighs 8–17 pounds — with males often tipping the scales on the higher end — and features a broad, pear-shaped head, hooded eyes, and a naturally short or bobbed tail ranging from two to six inches. Their coat is brown spotted tabby, either short or longhaired, with heavy ticking and a woolly texture.

Temperament & Personality

Pixie-Bobs are known for their devoted, dog-like personalities — they follow their owners everywhere, learn to walk on a leash, and some will even play fetch. Despite their wild appearance, they are gentle and patient, making them excellent family cats. They tend to chirp and chatter rather than meow and are generally quieter than many breeds.

Pros

  • Wild, bobcat-like appearance with a gentle, domestic temperament
  • Dog-like loyalty — follows owners, learns commands, walks on a leash
  • Polydactylism is common and accepted in the breed, adding to their unique charm
  • Calm and patient with children and other household pets

Cons

  • Large size and high food requirements increase ownership costs
  • Some lines carry hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) risk
  • Can be territorial with unfamiliar cats introduced into the home
  • Thick coat — especially the longhaired variety — sheds heavily and needs regular brushing

Looking for a gentle giant with a wild side? Find Pixie-Bob cats ready for adoption on Puplister and bring home your own little bobcat.

About the Sphynx

The Sphynx originated in Toronto, Canada, in 1966 when a domestic cat gave birth to a hairless kitten due to a natural genetic mutation. Through careful breeding with Devon Rex and other cats, the Sphynx was established as a robust breed. Weighing 6–12 pounds, this medium-sized cat is famous for its apparent hairlessness — though most Sphynx have a fine layer of peach-fuzz that gives their skin a warm, suede-like texture. Their wrinkled skin, lemon-shaped eyes, enormous ears, and pot belly give them an unmistakable extraterrestrial appearance.

Temperament & Personality

Sphynx cats are extroverted clowns that crave human attention and warmth — literally, as they seek out body heat and will burrow under blankets or curl up on any available lap. They are fearless, social, and endlessly entertaining, performing acrobatic feats and greeting everyone — including strangers — with enthusiasm. They do wonderfully with children, dogs, and other cats.

Pros

  • No fur shedding on furniture or clothing
  • Extremely social, affectionate, and entertaining — the ultimate companion cat
  • Gets along with virtually everyone — kids, dogs, strangers, other cats
  • Unique, striking appearance that turns heads wherever they go

Cons

  • Requires weekly baths to remove oil buildup that would normally be absorbed by fur
  • Highly susceptible to sunburn, cold, and skin infections
  • Prone to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and hereditary myopathy
  • High metabolism means they eat more than similarly sized cats and need a warm environment

Captivated by this hairless wonder? Find Sphynx cats looking for warm, loving homes on Puplister — your next cuddle buddy awaits.

Available for Adoption

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Pixie-Bob and a Sphynx?
The Pixie-Bob is 8–17 lbs sized while the Sphynx is 6–12 lbs sized. They differ in size (8–17 lbs vs 6–12 lbs), lifespan (13–15 years vs 8–14 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, Pixie-Bob or Sphynx?
Pixie-Bob is generally good with kids. Sphynx is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, Pixie-Bob or Sphynx?
The Pixie-Bob has a lifespan of 13–15 years while the Sphynx has a lifespan of 8–14 years.

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