Brachycephalic cats – breed specifics and maintenance features

Many people find the distinctive, flat-faced appearance of brachycephalic cats to be incredibly adorable. Some cat breeds, such as the Persian and Exotic Shorthair, stand out from the crowd thanks to their unique appearances. However, pet owners should be aware of certain challenges associated with their unique facial structure.

Though they have a charming squishy face, brachycephalic cats can have health problems, especially with breathing. They may find it more difficult to breathe due to their shorter nasal passages, particularly in warm or stressful environments. By being aware of these possible issues, you can give your feline friend the best care possible.

These cats frequently need special care when it comes to their diet and grooming in addition to their unique health requirements. Their opulent coats may require a lot of care, and frequent cleaning is necessary to avoid infections in their facial folds. You can maintain the happiness and health of your brachycephalic cat by being aware of what to expect.

Breed	Specifics and Maintenance Features
Persian	Persians have a flat face and can suffer from breathing issues. They need regular grooming due to their long fur and should be kept indoors to avoid respiratory problems.
Exotic Shorthair	Similar to Persians but with shorter fur, Exotic Shorthairs are prone to tear staining around their eyes. Regular eye cleaning and a calm environment help them stay healthy.
Himalayan	A mix between Persian and Siamese, Himalayans can have the same flat-faced health concerns as Persians. They need a balanced diet and regular vet checkups to prevent breathing and dental issues.
British Shorthair	Though not as extreme as Persians, British Shorthairs have a slightly flattened face, so watch for signs of labored breathing. They are low maintenance but benefit from regular brushing.

What is brachycephaly

In medicine, brachycephaly is a scientific term. The words "short" (brachys) and "head" (kephale) are Greek words that give rise to the name. In other words, brachycephaly is a shortened skull shape with an 80% width to length ratio.

In cats, this shape of the skull becomes a flattened muzzle. Hence, brachycephalic breeds include all those with adorable small noses. Brachycephaly is a genetic mutation rather than the usual. Cats of the Scottish or British breed, for instance, pass it on to all of their progeny. In the first few years of a pet’s life, brachycephaly hardly affects anything, but as an adult, it can seriously affect health.

The brachycephalic form of the skull is a fixed characteristic in certain breeds and the norm.

The scientific term for brachycephalic syndrome is brachycephalic airway obstruction syndrome (BAOS). It manifests as extreme breathing difficulties, even during daily activities, in addition to heavier loads. The cat’s internal organ sizes are influenced by the initial structure of its skull; as a result, its nostrils and stenotic vessels are narrowed. The pet has to work harder to breathe as a result. As a result, the nasal passage walls are drawn inward and the nostril openings close even more.

Breathing difficulties lead to laryngeal mucous membrane stretching. Mucous membrane stretches nearly always result in inside-out pockets. The larynx may also eventually fold into the trachea tube. As a result, breathing gets even harder in brachycephals.

The function of the soft palate in breathing is also significant. Because it is so long in cats with flattened muzzles, it can occasionally obstruct the epiglottis, resulting in reduced airflow. When breathing, the long palate vibrates and touches the pharynx, causing the mucous membrane to swell and possibly even become inflamed.

A cat with narrow nasal openings and a long, soft palate may produce a variety of sounds, such as loud smacking or sniffling during meals, as well as snoring or wheezing while sleeping. The animal’s inability to breathe is the cause of everything.

Brachycephalics endure severe health issues over time. After all, a significant cardiac load may result from laryngeal enlargement. Therefore, cardiovascular insufficiency is frequently diagnosed in animals.

The nasal passages of cats with normal skulls are lined with thin, curved cartilages. Because the cartilages can move slightly when breathing, the cat won’t have trouble breathing even when it’s exercising vigorously.

The respiratory tract and skull of brachycephalic cats differ significantly from those of regular cats.

Symptoms of BAOS that can be heard are:

• difficulty breathing;
• snoring and wheezing;
• cough;
• frequent respiratory diseases – up to pneumonia;
• suffocation;
• heart and vascular defects.

All symptoms worsen in the presence of stress, infections, and obesity. A brachycephalic cat should therefore be shielded from these harmful elements.

Veterinary statistics indicate that small nostrils and an elongated soft palate are the only conditions that brachycephalic cats face during their first two years of life. Eversion of the laryngeal pockets is typically evident by the time a child reaches the age of four. Most cats (by far) have one or both lungs’ edema and cardiovascular insufficiency by the time they are ten years old.

Depending on the breed, brachycephalic cats have varying lifespans. Despite respiratory issues, Scottish cats are thought to be old-timers in the cat world, with a lifespan of 15 to 20 years.

Brachycephalic cat breeds

A cat’s brachycephalic muzzle shape is an artificial one. For a very long time, geneticists and breeders have attempted to correct this mutation in certain breeds. However, it also has "natural" origins. Given that the wild cat Pallas’s cat has an exceptionally wide skull by nature, scientists surmise that modern brachycephalics are descended from this species.

Because of their unique appearance and endearing expression, brachycephalic cats are the most popular pets worldwide due to the unique shape of their skulls.

There are currently only five recognized breeds of brachycephalic cats, and they are found all over the world. Numerous additional breeds are recognized by some breeders, but they are not yet recognized by felinological organizations.

Persian cat

The Persian people have a long and illustrious history. These exquisite animals were kept in the royal courts even during the Middle Ages. Based on the shape of their skulls, modern Persian cats can be classified into three types:

extreme – a small nose is at eye level;

Extreme Persians have noses that are level with their eyes.

Brachycephaly, which is thought to be the primary characteristic of the European variety of Persian cats, is hardly noticeable in cats.

British Persians have a long nose and a essentially normal skull structure.

It is impossible to avoid falling in love with a Persian cat because of its stunning appearance. I have Persians that are extreme in nature. This indicates that the nose and eyes are in line. As a result, the Persian’s expression is innocent when their eyes are wide open. Doctor Watson Review_2275825.html on otzovik.com

Himalayan cat

The Himalayan cat is a subspecies of Persians. But only TICA has formally recognized it as a breed as of yet; other felinologists have not registered it as such. Since the Himalayan cat has Siamese ancestry, it physically resembles the breed and exhibits brachycephaly as well.

The Persian and Siamese ancestors of the Himalayan breed are responsible for its appearance.

Persian cats were the most well-liked in the world in the early 2000s, thanks in part to their opulent long hair and adorable flattened muzzle.

The breed is characterized by its long paws and medium stature. Cats have fluffy tails, and many of their members have extremely long tails. Persians are only meant to be kept indoors because of the deformity of their skull, which makes them susceptible to colds when they are out in the open. Persians are known for their calmness and affection. Their behavior is devoid of any aggression or impudence. However, the breed requires particular, superior nutrition and care because of its long hair and flattened muzzle.

Exotic cat

Because of its big, round eyes and adorable muzzle, this breed is sometimes referred to as "dolls." The most affected by brachycephaly are exotics, as they have the highest-set noses and nearly nonexistent nasal bridges.

The breed was entirely accidental in its breeding. Geneticists crossed Persian and American cats in the middle of the 20th century to create a new breed of long-haired pets. But there were kittens born with surprisingly cute faces and short hair. Currently, every felinologist on the planet is aware of this breed.

Exotic cats’ primary characteristics are their external data:

• a convex forehead on a wide muzzle;
• a stocky body;
• short but strong legs;
• very large round eyes.

Due to their propensity for respiratory illnesses, exotics require special care and should only be fed high-quality food. Cats of this breed frequently have watery eyes due to deformity of the tear ducts; therefore, the owner must wash the eyes once daily.

Artificial selection led to the creation of the exotic cat breed.

The cat is very wayward, but very, very kind. She treats strangers well, but first she needs to sniff the person properly before letting him pet her. She does not sit in your arms, if she wants affection, she will get it) She is very kind to the child, despite some of his "tricks".

Iskriv

Review_688654.html on otzovik.com

Scottish cat

The breed has only been around for sixty years. On the same Scottish farm in the 1960s, a white cat named Susie was born. She stood out due to her small, forward-facing ears and brachycephalous skull. After developing an interest in the cat, the breeders crossed Suzi with a British breed cat. It was therefore feasible to address the primary benefits of the breed:

• flattened muzzle;
• strong muscular body;
• Big eyes;
• small triangular ears, bent down and forward;
• Powerful paws.

With age, ears can straighten in certain Scottish breed representatives. This is a Scottish-Straight variation. Nonetheless, Fold and Strait share a jovial and amiable nature, rapidly bonding with their owners. The Scots don’t need any special attention.

The ears of the Scottish breed are small and curved forward.

When we first brought our cat home, she almost instantly lifted her tail like a pipe and started looking around the space. So courageous. This breed is incredibly well-mannered; manners run in their family. From the beginning, they grew accustomed to the litter box. She will now scream until the very end, demanding to return the litter box if it is removed, say, for cleaning, but she won’t do it on the ground. @murkotiki.com/Otzyvy-dostoinstva-nedostatki Mark

British cat

Of all the brachycephalic cats, the British have the most elongated muzzle shapes. They are able to prevent serious breathing problems as a result. The breed dates back to the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, but it wasn’t until the 1970s that it was acknowledged as a distinct breed. The British cat is very gentle and has short hair. A typical British person possesses the following traits:

• a strong long body;
• long paws;
• round eyes;
• weak signs of brachycephaly.

Because Britons don’t have particular dietary preferences, maintaining them is not a problem. Playfulness and sociability are thought to be the breed’s primary character traits.

The British cat is a peaceful companion that doesn’t give its owners any trouble.

Feline. Good natured, composed, never shits in inappropriate places, and only uses a scratching post to sharpen their claws. "Kisses" with affection, in his own way. However, he won’t allow you to pick him up for anything. Will breaks away and sit next to him rather than in your arms. Alternatively, it’s acceptable if you embrace him while walking through the apartment. However, having him on your lap is not a good idea at all. Visitors The discussion at https://www.woman.ru/home/animal/4198733/

Manul – a wild cat

The only brachycephalic species found in the wild is Manul. This cat species is extremely uncommon and is included in the International Red Book. It is thought that the flattened muzzle of the cat, which enables it to catch certain prey and drag it to its burrow without breathing difficulties, is what caused the mutation in the skull. It’s likely that the brachycephaly appearance in domestic cats was influenced by the ancestors of Pallas’ cat.

The Pallas’s cat is a large member of the cat family with thick fur and a strong physique.

Persians and Exotic Shorthairs are examples of brachycephalic cats, which have flat faces that give them a distinctive appearance but also require special care. They may be more susceptible to eye and dental problems, and their short noses may make breathing more difficult. To ensure that they lead happy, healthy lives, it’s critical to comprehend these health issues and create a comfortable environment for them.

Can brachycephaly occur in cats of other breeds

Because brachycephalic syndrome is a result of a genetic mutation, cats of different breeds may occasionally give birth to a kitten that has a flattened muzzle.

Symptoms of the syndrome

Brachycephalic airway obstruction syndrome appears as follows on the outside:

• wheezing or wheezing;
• snoring during sleep;
• increased breathing rate even with minor physical exertion;
• frequent coughing;
• sleeping or resting in unnatural positions – for example, moving the front paws in different directions;
• shortness of breath in the heat;
• nosebleeds.

In the worst situations, there may be fainting and cyanosis of the throat and nasal mucous membranes.

Veterinarian supervision

It is advised to present a brachycephaly animal to a veterinarian as soon as possible to recognize all the risks associated with its upkeep. The following tests are performed by the physician:

• visual external examination of the skull and mucous membranes;
• auscultation — listening with the ear or a stethoscope to the sounds that accompany the work of the internal organs;
• chest X-ray;
• sometimes — cardiological examinations and ultrasound of the heart.

The expert makes a determination about how to lessen the impact of a flattened skull on a kitten’s life based on the information gathered.

The cat is temporarily put to sleep if it refuses to allow a veterinarian to examine it.

Treatment of the syndrome

Because the shape of the skull cannot be altered, brachycephaly is not treated. On the other hand, contemporary surgery can greatly prolong a pet’s life. Surgical interventions come in two flavors: scheduled and emergency.

Planned correction of brachycephaly symptoms

This phrase describes the surgical management of the syndrome’s manifest symptoms. Treatment is administered to cats up to the age of three if they are still young and do not experience severe breathing difficulties. Timely development of the unpleasant effects of brachycephalic syndrome is aided by planned correction.

The main goals of the procedure are to remove extra soft palate tissue and enlarge the nostril canals. Following the animal’s anesthesia, it is carried out. The cat is given medication to prevent swelling of the laryngeal mucosa following the procedure. After surgery, the stitches are typically taken out two weeks later.

Tracheotomies, or the creation of holes in the trachea to allow free passage of air, are occasionally used as part of routine care for elderly animals.

Emergency treatment

When the owner takes their nearly-dead cat to the vet, emergency therapy is administered. The mutation in the shape of the skull can be very strong right from birth, which causes the pet to have severe breathing issues. The cat’s condition is diagnosed by the veterinarian and stabilized. The animal is put to sleep with a drug, and oxygen is given into its lungs. The cat’s symptoms determine what the doctor does next.

Prior to the procedure, the cat must have unrestricted access to oxygen.

Prevention of brachycephalic syndrome in cats

Removing brachycephalic animals from breeding is the only practical way to stop this syndrome. It is advised to have nasal plastic surgery done when a cat is still a young child if she gives birth to cubs with a flattened skull. In certain cases, such a procedure can completely prevent the disease and stop the syndrome from worsening.

Is it worth getting a brachycephalic cat

You want to pick up fluffy Persians, silky-haired Scots, elegant British, and adorable exotics because they are such endearing and lovely animals. The kindness and gentle disposition of all brachycephalic breeds is a significant benefit. For this reason, families with small children are welcome to own cats with flattened muzzles.

Advantages and disadvantages of keeping

The cleanest pets are cats. In terms of hygiene and grooming, breeds with prominent brachycephalic syndrome are not less superior to regular cats. But there are drawbacks to owning brachycephalic animals.

Table: pros and cons of keeping a brachycephalic

• unusual appearance,
• good-natured disposition,
• excellent adaptation in the family,
  including with small children

• difficult care for representatives of breeds with long fur,
• problems with the respiratory system,
• increased lacrimation

Prices

Cats of brachycephalic breeds range widely in price depending on the area. The following variables affect a kitten’s ultimate cost:

• number of litters (kittens of the first litter are considered the healthiest and strongest in reproductive terms, therefore they are more expensive than all subsequent ones);
• color;
• compliance with all breed standards;
• availability of a pedigree from producers;
• availability of awards for participation in exhibitions.

A pedigree verifies the kitten’s lineage and its parents’ titles.

Scottish and British breeds offer the lowest prices for kittens: 3 thousand rubles (in the absence of passports and birth certificates) and 10 thousand rubles (in the presence of all necessary documentation). Because breeders can set different prices for different varieties, a Persian cat can have a very defined price range. For instance, because of the former’s noticeable brachycephaly, an extreme Persian will cost more than a British Persian. A purebred kitten typically costs twelve thousand rubles. The most costly items are exotics because of their doll-like appearance. You can buy a small fluffy cat for at least twenty thousand rubles.

Where to buy a brachycephalic cat

For inexperienced breeders, the prices listed are typical. Cats with brachycephaly are more expensive in nurseries and from professional breeders. Purchasing a kitten should only be done from reputable cat breeders with a considerable track record. Obtaining a verified pedigree and a genuinely healthy pet can only be done in this manner.

Professional breeders typically produce individuals with champion titles and awards from multiple exhibitions.

Features of keeping and caring for

Cats with brachycephaly require a lot of affection and care from their owners. The animal will beg to play with it or will go out of its way to amuse itself. Brachycephalic cat ownership is not thought to be difficult. To ensure that the animal is comfortable, the owner needs to meet a number of requirements:

• use premium cat food;
• clean eyes and ears with damp cotton pads;
• comb out excess hair;
• regularly show the cat to the veterinarian;
• protect the pet from the street and drafts.

Domestic cats with a brachycephalic head have certain health limitations. They lead happy, long lives in the family when given proper care.

Tea leaves or chamomile infusion can be used to moisten a cotton pad for brachycephalic cats’ eyes.

Cats with brachycephaly have distinct features and requirements. They have a unique appearance due to their short, flat faces, but this also presents certain health risks. Owners should be aware that these breeds may experience other problems, such as respiratory difficulties.

Maintaining a healthy and happy life for your brachycephalic cat requires proper care and routine veterinary examinations. Small changes can have a big impact, from making the right food choices to making sure their surroundings are comfortable.

Make sure you’re ready for the additional care a brachycephalic breed may require if you’re thinking about getting one. These kitties can make wonderful companions full of personality and charm if given the proper care and a little patience.

Video on the topic

Tearing in a cat and kitten! Brachycephalic – what is it? How to treat inflammation and pus in the eyes? The cat snores?

What foods can a cat eat? #shorts #cat

Spotted cat – examples of breeds and their names

All about the Persian Cat breed

WHICH BREED TO CHOOSE? / ABYSSINIAN CAT / REASONS TO CHOOSE