What are the health and welfare issues associated with exaggerated physical features in cats?

There is increasing evidence showing that cats who have been bred to have exaggerated physical features (such as flat faces) suffer from significant health problems that lead to lifelong suffering. Some of these health problems include, for example, difficulty breathing, eye and skin problems, dental problems and trouble eating.

RSPCA Australia is opposed to the selective breeding of companion animals which produces physical changes such as exaggerated features or behavioural changes detrimental to the animals’ health or welfare.

Which breeds are affected?

The main cat breeds in Australia that suffer from significant welfare problems associated with exaggerated physical features are flat-faced or brachycephalic cats (for example, Persians and Exotic Shorthairs), and Manx, Munchkin, and Scottish Fold cats [1]. The physical appearance of these breeds may be appealing to many people making them very popular. However, most owners or potential owners are unaware of the significant risks posed by some of the specific characteristics of these breeds.

What are the health and welfare problems for these cats?

Brachycephalic cats (e.g. Persians and exotic shorthairs)

Flat-faced or brachycephalic cats have changes to their respiratory tract similar to those in brachycephalic dogs. These include narrowed nostrils and airways, a longer than normal soft palate (at the back of the throat), which increases the resistance to air flow through the cat’s airways and make it more difficult to breathe compared to a cat with a normal face [1–3]. The breathing difficulties associated with the exaggerated flat face can also lead to exercise intolerance in these cats, meaning they tire easily and can only run and play for short periods or not at all because they cannot breathe normally.

Brachycephalic cats also have abnormalities of their tear ducts and drainage system [3, 5]. This hinders normal tear drainage and can result in excessive watering of the eyes, inflammation of the eye and other eye problems (such as conjunctivitis).

The skull abnormalities associated with being brachycephalic (where the skull is an abnormal size and shape) can also cause abnormalities of the teeth [3]. Affected cats can have dental problems throughout their lives and trouble eating.

Manx cats

Manx cats have a genetic abnormality that results in a short or non-existent tail (known as sacrocaudal dysgenesis) which is the signature feature of the cat breed. However, this causes numerous associated problems including digestive tract problems that can lead to constipation and faecal incontinence, rectal prolapse, defects of the urinary tract, urinary incontinence and spina bifida [1].

Munchkin cats

Munchkin cats have a genetic mutation causing a defect in the formation of cartilage causing them to have shortened limbs; this is the signature feature of the cat breed. This abnormality is associated with painful osteoarthritis [1].

Inherited cartilage defect in Scottish Folds (also known as Scottish Fold disease or Osteochondrodysplasia)

The ear fold typical of the Scottish Fold cat is the result of a natural genetic mutation causing a defect in the formation of cartilage, which would normally retain the ears in a normal shape [5]. This causes other deformities throughout the body and is a dominant trait, meaning all kittens in the litter will be affected. Serious abnormalities in joints and bone growth lead to arthritis (painful, swollen joints), short, abnormally thick and inflexible tails, spinal abnormalities and short, stiff legs. The welfare impacts are severe in terms of pain and inability to perform natural behaviours, as these cats can be lame, walk with an abnormal gait, can be reluctant to engage in normal movements such as walking or jumping, and can even become completely crippled. There is no cure for this progressive condition. For more information see this article.

For more information about hereditary diseases in cats please visit International Cat Care.

What can owners of cats with exaggerated features do to address the welfare issues associated with their pets?

Cats with exaggerated features may require specialised veterinary care to help them to be more comfortable and to improve their quality of life. These cats may also need ongoing extra daily care from their owners in addition to general care needs. It is very hard to predict the level of care which may be required for a cat with exaggerated features. Potential owners who have busy lifestyles or limited income should carefully consider their capacity to provide adequate care should this be required.

If you own a cat with exaggerated features, you can help your pet in a number of ways:

1. Be fully aware of the specific health and welfare problems for the breed of cat.
2. Talk to your veterinarian about what you need to be aware of and what you can do to help your cat.
3. If your cat has exaggerated features causing welfare problems, you can help ensure these are not passed on to future generations by getting your cat desexed. Cats’ health and welfare should be considered as a priority over appearance in making breeding decisions.