Sweaters for Sphynx and Hairless Cats: How to Pick One They'll Actually Wear

If you live with a Sphynx, Devon Rex, Cornish Rex or any short-coat cat, you already know the signs: the hunt for the warmest lap, the sunny windowsill, the spot right on top of the laptop. Without a full coat of fur, these cats lose body heat quickly, so a soft layer can make chilly days a lot more comfortable.

Here's how to choose one your cat will actually keep on.

1. Measure before you shop

Weight is only a rough guide for cat clothing. Two measurements matter most:

• Chest girth: wrap a soft tape measure around the widest part of the chest, just behind the front legs.
• Back length: measure from the base of the neck to the base of the tail.

Compare both with the size chart on the product page. If your cat falls between two sizes, size up. A slightly roomy layer is far more comfortable than a tight one.

2. Look for soft fabric on the inside

Hairless skin is sensitive, so the inside of the garment matters as much as the outside. Look for a brushed or fleece lining and avoid scratchy knits right against the skin. Our Fleece-Lined Cat Hoodie was chosen with Sphynx and Devon Rex cats in mind: a cotton outer with a warm fleece lining and a relaxed hood.

3. Pick a shape that's easy to put on

Sleeveless, pull-on styles are usually the easiest for cats to accept, because their legs stay free. A turtleneck like the Chunky Cable Knit Sweater adds warmth around the neck without anything to fasten. For cats who go outside on a leash, a padded vest with a leash ring, like the Reversible Puffer Vest, keeps the chill off on walks.

4. Check the fit

Once it's on, you should be able to slide two fingers under the fabric at the neck and chest. Your cat should be able to walk, sit, jump and use the litter box normally. If the fabric rides up, bunches under the legs or your cat freezes in place, try the next size up or a different style.

5. Introduce it slowly

• Let your cat sniff the garment first, and leave it near their favorite sleeping spot for a day so it smells familiar.
• Put it on for a few minutes at a time, paired with treats or a meal, and take it off before your cat gets annoyed.
• Build up gradually. Most cats settle in faster when the first experiences are short and rewarding.

6. Keep it clean

Hairless cats have oily skin, so their clothes get grubby faster than you'd expect. Having two layers to rotate makes it easy to wash one while your cat wears the other.

A few safety basics

Always supervise your cat in clothing at first, take it off if they seem stressed or too warm, and never leave a cat unattended in anything that could catch on furniture. If your cat seems unusually cold, lethargic or uncomfortable, check with your vet.

Browse our full Cats collection for more cozy layers sized for cats. New here? Use code WELCOME for 10% off your first order.