Sphynx — Color Genetics & EMS Calculator

The Sphynx's distinctive hairless phenotype is governed by a recessive allele (hr) at the Hairless locus, requiring homozygosity (hr/hr) for expression, but this locus is entirely independent of the pigmentation genetics that determine EMS color codes. All pigmentation loci (A, B, C, D, E, O, S, I) function identically in hairless cats, making the Sphynx one of the most genetically unrestricted breeds in terms of permissible EMS codes. Breeders using an EMS color calculator for Sphynx programs must evaluate color expression on the skin pigmentation visible at the skin surface and hair follicle roots, as the absence of a full coat makes colourpoint restriction, tabby pattern, and white-spotting all visible directly on the skin.

Sphynx colour genetics: frequently asked questions

Which recessive colours do Sphynx cats commonly carry?
All Sphynx are homozygous hr/hr at the Hairless locus. Outcross programs using Devon Rex (re/re) produce all-haired offspring (hr/re) which must not be registered as Sphynx. All color-locus recessives (b, bl, d, cs, cb) can and do occur in Sphynx populations; all are accepted. The Inhibitor (I) locus produces silver/smoke phenotypes visible on skin pigmentation.
What colour restrictions apply to the Sphynx breed standard?
No color or pattern restrictions apply to the Sphynx under FIFe standard — all EMS base colors, tabby patterns, colourpoint series, and white-spotting grades are permissible. Dominant White (W) is accepted. Amber (e) is technically possible but not explicitly listed in FIFe SPH standards. The hairless gene (hr) must be homozygous; Devon Rex (re) and Sphynx (hr) alleles must not be confused — they are non-allelic.
Which coat patterns are typical for the Sphynx?
All tabby patterns (22, 23, 24, 25) are accepted. Colourpoint (cs/cs) Sphynx are fully valid, with point restriction visible on skin tone. Smoke and silver patterns are visible as differential skin pigmentation at follicle roots. White-spotting (S locus) is identifiable by unpigmented skin patches, making precise bicolor and van classification straightforward in the hairless phenotype.

Popular EMS Colors

SPH nBlack (solid skin)
SPH aBlue (solid)
SPH f 22Black Tortie Classic Tabby
SPH n 03Black Bicolour
SPH n 33Seal Colourpoint
SPH dRed (solid)

Calculate Colors for Sphynx

Free online cat color genetics calculator. Select the breed and appearance of the sire and dam to predict kitten coat colors, patterns and probabilities based on feline color genetics.

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Enter the appearance of both parents to calculate color predictions.

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