What are F1, F2, and F3 kittens/cats?
These are terms used to define first, second and third generations in an outcross program. The Sphynx are still a relatively “new” breed, and the gene pool is still limited. Outcrossing is vital to a breeding program to introduce new bloodlines so cats are not inbred to the extent of producing unhealthy or defected kittens. *An F1, or first generation outcross, is the result of a purebred Sphynx mated to an approved outcross. In CFA, allowed outcrosses are American & Domestic Shorthairs. In TICA, allowed outcrosses are American Shorthairs & Devon Rex. I use Domestic Shorthairs (DSH) in my Sphynx outcross program. F1 kittens are always fully coated, but carry the recessive hairless gene. *An F2, or second generation outcross, is the result of a purebred Sphynx mated to an F1 outcross. Hairless kittens are expected in this litter, statistically 50% of the litter or more will be hairless. I have seen both hairless, straight-coated, and even curly-coated kittens in F2 litters. *An F3, or t
