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Cat breeds are a pretty rare topic of discussion. Unlike dog breeds, there are not many considerations for different types of cats. Cat breeds also have fewer health concerns than dog breeds. There are still some factors to consider when caring for specific cat breeds, as some may need a little more attention and veterinary care than others. Some feline breeds are more prone to health conditions than others and knowing which is which can help you to adapt and take better care of your cat. Be it changing the cat food or providing a better cat litter box, like the Tidy Cats Breeze litter system, you can make your cat’s life better by knowing what’s wrong with them.
Here are seven cat breeds that need more frequent visits to the vet.
#1 Persian
The Persian falls under the ‘brachycephalic’ category. This category is for cat breeds with a widened but shortened skull, making them look flat-faced. Because of its congested skull structure, this breed is more at risk of acquiring breathing problems and upper respiratory infections. There have even been some known cases where hair grew into the cat’s nose and eyes. This breed is also more genetically prone to renal, cardiac, kidney, skin, neurological, and reproductive disorders.
Persian cats enjoy both dry cat food, as well as wet cat food. They will particularly enjoy the Friskies wet cat food as it is rich in protein.
#2 Siamese
A recent Swedish study shows that the Siamese breed has a shorter lifespan when compared to others. Siamese cats usually suffer from mammary tumors, are more prone to cancer, and have a higher chance of acquiring gastrointestinal diseases. Siamese cats can sometimes also face eye disorders that lead to blindness.
If it does not want to go to the vet, you can tempt your Siamese with some cat treats, like the Temptation Cat Treats that are seafood flavored.
#3 Abyssinian
These cats have the highest rate of blindness when compared to other breeds. They suffer from a hereditary condition causing their retinas' degeneration. With the evolution of technology, these conditions have become easier to diagnose, and the Abyssinian cats have become much healthier.
#4 Himalayan
The Himalayan breed was initially created by heavily breeding Persian cats and can, as such, suffer from many of the same genetic conditions. They are also more prone to polycystic kidney disease.
Get a cat backpack to make it easier for you to carry your Himalayan to the vet.
#5 Sphynx
These hairless kittens are more prone to upper respiratory infections when compared to other breeds. They have no fur putting them at risk for sunburns, skin cancer, skin infections, and hypothermia. These cats are also more at risk of developing a fatal heart disease called mitral valve dysplasia.
#6 Exotic Shorthair
This breed was created in the same way that the Himalayans were created – by heavily breeding Persians. They also suffer from the same genetic ailments and are prone to developing PKD (Polycystic Kidney Disease).
#7 Scottish Fold
These cats are more susceptible to cardiomyopathy as well as PKD. The breeding of these cats is also a hassle. Their ear folds have to be taken into account for healthy breeding to take place. When bred wrong, they are put at risk of developing arthritis and other problems.
With the right care, proper treatment, and constant visits to the vet, all these cat breeds can serve as amazing pets.
Why You Need to Take Your Cat to the Vet Regularly
One common mistake cat-owners make is avoiding regular vet visits. Of course, your cat may look healthy and free from problems. However, regularly showing your cat to the vet is just as important as the regular checkups you go for with your physician.
If you have not been showing your cats to the vet regularly, here are a few reasons that should convince you to start doing so now.
#1 Vaccinations
The highly polluted world and environment of today leave cats exposed to several pathogens and risks of falling ill. Although vaccinations may not prevent all illnesses, they prevent a few major ones. That can be all the difference it takes to see your cat healthy and alive.
#2 Detection of Hidden Problems
Your cat may seem normal and healthy to you, although there may be several health issues that are hidden from your eye. This is one of the most important reasons to take your cat to the vet. Many ugly incidents can be prevented by early detection and diagnoses by professionals.
#3 Helpful for Future Visits
When you take your cat regularly to a vet, the doctor can know the cat better. This means that your vet will have all the history he would need to help your cat better in case of major illnesses in the future. If you take your cat to a doctor who does not know the cat’s medical history so well, there can always be chances of misdiagnosing. So, it is advisable to stick to visiting only one vet.
#4 Helpful in Gaining Vital Insights
A vet will be aware of several things that you may not be aware of, such as diet, cleaning, supplements, and so on. Regularly visiting a vet can help you gain information about these things so that your cat will receive the attention and care that is exactly suited for its current age and health status.
#5 Ensuring Your Cat’s Overall Health is Intact
In general, regular visits are going to help you understand your cat’s current health status. This will enable you to know where you should make changes, such as in your lifestyle, in the cat’s diet, or even in terms of mating. Simply put, regular visits are vital to ensure that your cat is always in the pink of health and happiness. And a happy cat makes a happy you!
If you need the consultation of experts and/or medications for your cat, simply log on to Petplus.com and find everything you could need to help your cat live happier.