Cat Breeds with the Highest Risk of Disease

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Cat breeds have just as many health concerns as dog breeds do. However, you still need to take some things into consideration when you’re looking to adopt a new cat. Some breeds are more susceptible to health problems than others. That’s why it’s important that you do research into this before adopting a cat. It will help you choose the right cat for you and your living environment. If you already own one of these breeds, then it’s also important to know the medical conditions that they’re more prone to so you can take better care of them and start looking for symptoms before it’s too late.

1. PersianAS with dogs, cats can also be brachycephalic. This means that the cat would have a widened, yet shortened skull, giving it the flat faced appearance that we all love. Because of its very small head, it’s more susceptible to upper respiratory infections as well as difficulties with breathing. This breed can also have an overproduction of tears due to the malformed tear ducts found in some Persian cats. There might also be some issues with the hair growing into the eyes and the nose. They also have hereditary diseases which include cardiac, renal, and kidney diseases. They are also more susceptible to neurological, reproductive, and skin disorders.
2. SiameseAlthough they’re much sought after because of their exotic nature, they are prone to some pretty serious conditions. They have a higher mortality rate in comparison to other cats. They are more at risk of cancers and mammary tumors. They are also more prone to developing gastrointestinal issues. They may also go blind with time.
3. AbyssinianThese cats are the most likely to go blind as they grow older. They suffer from a hereditary condition which causes their retinas to degenerate. This breed is of otherwise good overall health. Abyssinian cats also have a higher chance of getting gingivitis.
4. HimalayanHimalayans were created from heavily breeding Persian cats. Because of this, they also have most of the same genetic ailments that Persians suffer from. They are more susceptible to polycystic kidney disease or PKD, which can be life threatening for a cat. Sometimes, PKD also affects the pancreas as well as the liver.
5. Exotic ShorthairAnother much sought after cat. They were also created by over-breeding Persians and therefore suffer from the same ailments. They are also at risk of developing PKD.
6. SphynxThe breeders of this cat tend to keep them for weeks longer than what they’re supposed to. That’s why they’re more at risk of developing upper respiratory infections when compared to other cat breeds. The fact that they have no fur to protect their skin also makes them more prone to skin diseases like sun burns and even skin cancer.

Minimize risks for an outdoor cat

Cats venture out of the house for stimulation. It goes out when it feels that the time is good for a spot of exercise. The animal also goes out to satisfy its ancient call to hunt. This need is so strong to the cat that it will go out even if it well-fed. The brain stimulation is an added bonus. The excitement keeps both its brain and its body in excellent working order.Vulnerable animalCats love to be both social and territorial. It wants to defend its resources from other cats loitering in the neighborhood. This competition is important to satisfy the cat's psychological health. As an owner, it helps to play with your kitty on a regular basis. You take a risk when you allow it to venture outside the home on its own. The animal is vulnerable to the many outdoor dangers like dogs and other cats. Humans may pose a danger too.Majority of the cats which venture outside gets killed by road traffic injuries. This is particularly dreadful for cats living in the inner city areas or living beside the main road. Poisoning is another cause of death. These could be due to consumption of chemical-laden garden fruits or used in the garden. Other causes of death include disease. These are transmitted to your cat when it comes to contact with other cats. The list of cat infections include cat flu, immunodeficiency virus or the enteritis viruses.Fleas along with other parasites could infect your dog from other dogs and also from the environment. A loss could be yet another reason for heartbreak. A nightmare for your cat is being caught inside vans and cars. They could even shift to a new owner. A timid cat could find the outdoors to be extremely stressful and prefer being inside.BenefitsA number of benefits could be had when you allow your cat to roam out of the house. It helps in controlling rodents around the home. They also enjoy a regular exercise regimen when they go out. The cats could be overweight if they do not do so. The venture outside also serves as an outlet for a number of behavioral requirements. Since the cat is less stressed, the welfare also gets improved. There is an added bonus for outdoor cats. These felines have fewer chance to develop any kind of behavioral problems like urination everywhere in the house and clawing items of furniture. A frustrated cat stalks its humor. To minimize such risks, allow your kitty to venture out during the day and shut it inside the house for safety. Attach a fluorescent collar. The feline will be seen then than on. Encourage the cat to come in.