Lack of knowledge harms cats in breeding practices - Veterinarian

SHAH ALAM - Many breeders and cat owners lack sufficient knowledge about breeding practices and proceed blindly, which can result in serious health and well-being issues for the cats.

Many cat owners and breeders, despite their best intentions, often lack critical knowledge about effective breeding practices. This gap in understanding can lead them to proceed blindly, inadvertently putting their cats at risk.

While their goal is never to cause harm, the absence of proper knowledge and guidance in breeding can result in unintended suffering for their feline companions.

Veterinarian Dr Rubendran Sukumaharan said that the reality is that many breeders and cat owners lack sufficient knowledge about breeding practices and proceed blindly.

“They expect that breeding Cat A with Cat B will simply produce Cat C. This lack of understanding can lead to significant problems, including the health and well-being of the cats being compromised.

“For instance, without proper knowledge, breeders may inadvertently create situations where cats face difficulties in giving birth or even suffer fatal consequences,” he said.

He also said that the growing trend among Malaysians to purchase expensive mixed-breed cats over adopting strays or other available cats largely stems from a preference for aesthetics.

“Many people are attracted to the distinctive looks and characteristics of these mixed breeds, seeking animals that are cute, strikingly beautiful or of particular sizes.

“While they do not intend for the cats to suffer, they often remain unaware of the potential health issues associated with these breeds, such as joint problems or breathing difficulties.

“When visiting pet shops, owners may be reassured that such issues are normal or minor, leading them to overlook the potential suffering of the cats.

“Moreover, cats are really good at hiding discomfort or signs of illnesses, so their health problems often become apparent only when they are in severe distress,” he said.

Rubendran believes that the current lack of regulation in cat breeding laws in Malaysia is contributing to unethical breeding practices.

“Unethical breeding practices are a concern not only with mixed breeds but also with pure breeds. However, while creating regulations is one challenge, enforcing them effectively is another, requiring sufficient enforcement agents to ensure compliance and protect animal welfare,” he said.

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