Purebred cats have become increasingly popular, but unfortunately, they are more prone to various health issues than mixed breed cats. Persian cats, Sphynx cats, Bengal cats, Exotic Shorthairs, and Scottish Fold cats are all at risk of suffering from painful and potentially life-threatening diseases.
People must be aware of these risks before buying a purebred cat, as they are more likely to suffer than mixed breed cats.
Persian Cats
Persian cats are prone to dental disease, runny eyes, and breathing difficulties. These health issues are caused by their flat faces and are exacerbated by poor breeding practices. These cats are also prone to obesity, skin disorders, and heart disease.
Persian cats should be checked regularly for these health issues by a veterinarian. Owners should also take care to keep their cats from becoming overweight, as this further increases the risk of health problems. Proper nutrition and regular exercise are essential for the wellbeing of these cats.
Sphynx Cats
Sphynx cats often struggle with chronic ear and skin issues and have difficulty regulating body temperature. They are susceptible to a variety of ear infections, as well as skin problems such as acne, dryness, and dermatitis. They can also be prone to eye and respiratory infections.
Due to their lack of fur, they are not able to regulate their body temperature as efficiently as other cats, and can become overly warm if the environment is too hot. As such, they must have access to air conditioning and a cool place to rest.
To prevent complications, it is important for Sphynx cats to have regular check-ups with a vet and to ensure that they are kept clean and healthy.
Bengal Cats
Bengal cats are particularly susceptible to heart disease, bladder stones, and kidney disease. These diseases are common among the breed, due to their unique genetics. Bengals are known for their exotic coat pattern, which is a result of cross-breeding with the Asian leopard cat. This hybridization has created a breed with a higher risk of developing certain illnesses, as compared to other cats.
Bengal cats are prone to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, which is a heart muscle disease. This can cause issues such as irregular heartbeat, heart murmur, and even sudden death. Bladder stones are another common problem in Bengal cats, which can lead to difficulty urinating and even kidney failure.
Kidney disease is a common problem for Bengal cats, and symptoms include weight loss, vomiting, loss of appetite, and dehydration. Treatment for kidney disease can include diet changes, hydration, and medication. It’s important to get regular checkups for your Bengal cat to ensure that any diseases or illnesses are detected and treated early.
With proper care and regular check-ups, Bengal cats can live a long and healthy life. It’s important to be aware of the health risks associated with the breed and to take proactive steps to ensure your cat is healthy.
Exotic Shorthairs
Exotic shorthairs are a cross between Persians and American shorthairs. They are the most-registered purebred cat in America. However, this popularity comes with a cost. Exotic shorthairs often experience the same health issues as their parent breeds.
These cats suffer from chronic ear and skin problems, difficulty breathing, and difficulty regulating body temperature. They are also prone to heart disease, bladder stones, and kidney disease. It is unfortunate that these health issues are so widespread among exotic shorthairs.
The perpetuation of these health issues by breeders is to blame for the suffering of these cats. Raising awareness about the suffering of exotic shorthairs is crucial. It is important to hold breeders accountable and prevent further suffering among these cats.
Scottish Fold Cats
Scottish fold cats are known for their distinctive folded ears, but this trait is linked to painful arthritis. All Scottish fold cats are affected by degenerative joint disease, which can’t be cured and can cause immense suffering.
The gene that causes the folded ears is also responsible for the painful arthritis, making it important to stop breeding these cats in order to prevent further suffering. Responsible cat owners should be aware of the potential health risks associated with the Scottish fold breed and consider other breeds instead.
Even if a cat looks healthy, it can suffer from chronic joint pain and discomfort. By adopting from a reputable shelter instead of buying a purebred, people can help prevent the suffering of these cats and give a loving home to a feline companion.
Hypoallergenic Cats
Contrary to popular belief, there is no such thing as a hypoallergenic cat. People with cat allergies are actually allergic to a protein found in cats’ saliva, dander, and urine. This protein is spread to cats’ fur and skin when they groom themselves, and no cat is completely free from it.
Some cats may shed less or produce less of the allergenic protein, but anyone with an allergy could still have a reaction. Therefore, those looking to adopt a cat should bear in mind that they may still suffer from allergies.
It’s also important to be aware that cats require long-term care, including food, water, a clean litterbox, veterinary care, exercise, and love. Adopting a cat from a reputable shelter is the best way to ensure that they will receive the care they need.
Adopting Vs. Buying Cats
When it comes to acquiring a cat, adoption is often the more responsible choice. Taking on the role of a cat’s guardian means providing it with food, water, a clean litterbox, veterinary care, exercise, and love for the rest of its life. This is a huge responsibility that can last 20 years or more. That’s why it’s so important to visit a reputable shelter and pledge to give a loving, safe home to a feline companion.
The Cat Guardians Bible has more information on this topic. Buying a purebred cat or any other animal should be avoided, as it can be a contributing factor to the widespread suffering of exotic shorthairs and other breeds.
Widespread Suffering of Exotic Shorthairs
Exotic shorthairs are the most-registered purebred cat in America and their suffering is widespread due to their popularity. They share many of the same health problems as Persians, such as difficulty breathing and dental disease. They are also prone to painful arthritis and chronic ear and skin problems.
Many of these issues are perpetuated by breeders who are not held accountable for the suffering they cause. Raising awareness about this is important, as exotic shorthairs continue to struggle with health problems. Adopting rather than buying a cat can help prevent this, as this is a lifelong responsibility that should not be taken lightly.
