Persian cats with deformed skulls, particularly those with extreme brachycephalic features (often referred to as “Peke-Faced” Persians), suffer from a range of severe health issues due to their skull and brain morphology. This article delves into the various health problems faced by these cats and explores the genetic factors, breeding practices, and preventative measures that can be taken to address this concerning issue.
What are the Skull and Brain Abnormalities in Persian Cats with Deformed Skulls?
Persian cats with deformed skulls, particularly those with extreme brachycephalic features, exhibit significant bony changes in their skull structure. These include a grossly reduced cranial length with increased width and height, leading to a rounded and domed skull shape. This results in the lack of a sagittal crest, flat orbits, and retrograde conchae.
The reduced cranial space causes compression of the brain, leading to herniation of the cerebellum through the foramen magnum. This was observed in 38 “Peke-Faced” Persians, with severe cases resulting in more than 50% herniation. Additionally, many “Peke-Faced” Persians exhibit ventricular enlargement, which is associated with internal hydrocephalus. This condition can lead to severe neurological symptoms such as seizures, blindness, and cognitive impairment.
How do Respiratory and Ocular Complications Affect Persian Cats with Deformed Skulls?
The shortening and flattening of the face in Persian cats with deformed skulls lead to abnormalities in the nasal cavity, including the loss of nasal turbinate bones and sinus obstruction. This results in significant breathing difficulties for these cats.
Furthermore, the flat face morphology can cause ocular problems due to the shallow orbits and misalignment of the eyes. These issues can significantly impact the overall health and well-being of Persian cats with deformed skulls.
What Dental Abnormalities are Commonly Observed in Persian Cats with Deformed Skulls?
Many “Peke-Faced” Persians have a protruding lower jaw and dental malalignments, which can lead to eating difficulties. These dental abnormalities are a direct result of the extreme brachycephalic features present in these cats.
How do Neurological Problems Affect Persian Cats with Deformed Skulls?
Cats with extreme brachycephaly may exhibit severe neurological symptoms, including ataxia, peripheral nystagmus, head tremors, abnormal breathing patterns, and sustained aimless screaming. These symptoms can be so severe that euthanasia may be necessary to alleviate the cat’s suffering.
What is the Current Understanding of the Genetics behind Brachycephaly in Persian Cats?
The exact genetic mechanisms behind brachycephaly in Persian cats are complex and not fully understood. However, studies suggest that multiple genetic factors contribute to the development of these features. While genetic testing can help identify genetic predispositions, it is not yet a definitive method to prevent the occurrence of brachycephalic features in Persian cats.
What Breeding Practices and Preventative Measures Can Help Address the Health Issues in Persian Cats with Deformed Skulls?
To mitigate the health issues associated with brachycephalic features in Persian cats, breeding practices need to shift towards selecting for more moderate skull morphologies. This involves returning to breed standards that promote a more normal nose length and skull shape.
Additionally, educating cat owners and breeders about the welfare issues associated with extreme brachycephaly can help reduce the demand for these cats and encourage more humane breeding practices. Veterinarians should also advise against breeding cats with extreme brachycephalic features and support breeders in selecting healthier phenotypes.
Conclusion
Persian cats with deformed skulls, particularly those with extreme brachycephalic features, face a range of severe health issues due to their skull and brain abnormalities. These issues include respiratory and ocular complications, dental abnormalities, and neurological problems. While the exact genetic mechanisms behind brachycephaly are not fully understood, changing breeding practices and increasing public awareness are crucial steps in addressing this concerning issue and improving the welfare of these cats.
References:
- Schmidt MJ, Kampschulte M, Enderlein S et al. “The relationship between brachycephalic head features in modern Persian cats and dysmorphologies of the skull and internal hydrocephalus.” Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2017, 31(5):1487-501.
- “The Relationship between Brachycephalic Head Features in …” NCBI, 2017.
- “Further evidence on the suffering of flat-faced cats”, International Cat Care, 2017.
