Breeding healthy cats essential for preventing diseases - Veterinarian

SHAH ALAM - Cat breeding, whether purebred or mixed, should only involve two entirely healthy cats to prevent the transmission of health problems to offspring.

While mixed breeding can offer genetic diversity, it can also be problematic when unhealthy cats are bred together.

Veterinarian Dr Rubendran Sukumaharan highlighted that issues arise in mixed-breed cats when both parents have existing health problems, which are then perpetuated in their offspring.

He stressed the importance of effective regulation and urged the government to establish specific standards for each breed, covering traits such as nose length, nostril size, and facial flatness.

“Health issues related to breeding can be observed in both pure and mixed breeds, particularly in breeds like Persians, Himalayans, and Burmese, which have extremely flat faces.

"This facial structure often leads to Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome, causing severe breathing difficulties due to tiny nostrils and a compressed airway,” he told Sinar Daily during an interview recently.

Dr Rubendran further clarified that the bulging eyes common in these breeds often suffer from inadequate lubrication, leading to infections or ulcers.

The flat facial structure also contributes to dental problems, with overcrowded teeth causing misalignment and potential abscesses.

Also, the elongated soft palate and tiny trachea in these breeds make breathing even more challenging.

Short-legged cats, like Munchkins, face similar complications.

“Though often adored for their appearance, Munchkins suffer from joint issues due to poor bone structure and misaligned joints, a result of selective breeding for their short legs,” he said.

He pointed out the dangers of cross-breeding Brachycephalics with short-legged cats, as the resulting mixed breed may inherit a range of health problems, exacerbating existing conditions and creating new ones—a practice he believes many breeders are currently engaging in.

Another significant issue Dr Rubendran stressed was dystocia, a severe difficulty in giving birth due to a small pelvic cavity.

“For instance, breeding a large Maine Coon with a small Munchkin can lead to complications.

"If the Maine Coon is the father and the Munchkin is the mother, the kittens may be excessively large, making delivery extremely challenging for the mother due to her smaller pelvic cavity.

"This often necessitates a caesarean section, posing risks to both the mother and her offspring,” he added.

To ensure the well-being of future generations of cats, it is essential to prioritise healthy breeding practices.

By avoiding breeding unhealthy cats, breeders can help prevent the perpetuation and creation of new health problems in the feline population.

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