While reputable breeders take precautions to ensure they are producing healthy cats, there’s still the possibility that your Exotic Shorthair cat could develop a few health issues down the line.
This is why it’s important to know the most common health problems your cat could develop, and it’s also important to know the signs of these common health problems.
In this list, we’ll give you a few of the most common health problems to look for in your Exotic Shorthair, as well as the common signs. If you feel that your cat is exhibiting any signs of any of the conditions below, it’s best to get them to a vet immediately for treatment.
Top 6 Exotic Shorthair Cat Health Problems
1. Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)
- Lethargy
- Excessive elimination of urine
- Excessive thirst
- Vomiting
- Weight loss
- Poor hair coat
- Bad breath
One common health issue you must watch for in Exotic Shorthair cats is Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD). This condition is caused by improper kidney function and your cat’s kidneys being enlarged.
While the cysts from this disease are usually present in kittens before they reach 12 months old, kidney failure can present years later.
DNA tests can determine PKD, so ensure your breeder can present proof that the kitten’s mother and father have been cleared of having it. Keep an eye on your Exotic Shorthair, and if you see any signs of this disease, contact your vet right away.
2. Eye Issues
- Redness and inflammation
- Green, thick, yellow discharge
- Overflowing tears
- Injuries or scratches
- Loose skin around the eyes
- Something stuck between the eyelid and the eye
Eye tearing, infections, and ulcers are pretty common for this cat breed. Exotic Shorthairs are predisposed to watery eyes because of the shapes of their heads, round eyes, short noses, and flat faces. Their bulging eyes also make them susceptible to trauma and corneal ulcers.
There are many reasons for a cat’s eyes to tear up, including allergies or injury to the eye. However, if it gets too bad, it can cause infections and other problems. While this is probably not something you need to worry about if you keep your cat’s eyes clean, it’s best to contact your vet for diagnosis and possible treatment if it gets bad.
3. Respiratory Issues/Breathing Problems
- Snoring
- Loud breathing when inhaling
- Panting often
- Hard time eating or swallowing
- Gagging and coughing
- Hard to participate in physical activity
Because of their flat faces and short noses, your Exotic Shorthair can have respiratory issues and breathing problems. Your cat will probably have issues breathing in very hot, humid weather. It’s best to keep your Exotic Shorthair in a climate-controlled environment so it doesn’t have issues breathing or catching respiratory infections.
Unfortunately, there isn’t much more that can be done since the cat’s anatomy was part of the breed development, which was designed so that they would have a short nose and a flat face. Modern veterinary advice is to avoid breeding extremely flat-faced breeds. Keep an eye on your Shorthair, and if the problems seem serious, take them to a vet right away.
4. Heat Sensitivity
- Panting
- Drooling
- Rapid breathing
The combination of a flat face’s respiratory challenges and having a thick, plush fur means Exotic Shorthairs are unable to get rid of excess body heat, making them very susceptible to overheating, which can quickly lead to heatstroke, a serious medical emergency that puts their life at risk. If you notice any of the signs listed above, ensure your cat gets a chance to cool down in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Offer them some fresh and cool (not cold) drinking water. If you notice the cat is also lethargic and has bright red gums or tongue, looks dizzy or has signs of incoordination, vomit and diarrhea, or seizures, please get in contact with your vet right away for further instructions.
5. Skin Issues
- Red, flaky, itchy skin
- Constant scratching
Skin problems in cats are pretty common, but they can be more so in the Exotic Shorthair cat. Because it has a thick, fluffy coat, it can easily trap dirt and collect oils, which can cause a whole variety of skin problems.
If you suspect your cat has a skin problem, it’s best to get them to a vet. To prevent skin issues, make sure to groom your cat weekly and keep them brushed regularly as well.
6. Dental Issues
- Bad breath
- Pawing the mouth
- Drooling
- Difficulty eating
- Swelling of the face or jaw
Since Exotic Shorthairs have short jaws, their teeth are often misaligned and cramped, making them more susceptible to tartar buildup, plaque, and the development of periodontal disease.
Conclusion
These are just a few of the most common issues you should look out for in your Exotic Shorthair cat. Remember, just because a cat can be genetically predisposed to have one of these health issues doesn’t mean that it will.
It’s important to find a reputable breeder who will disclose any issues the parents of your little Exotic Shorthair might have from the beginning, so you have no surprises in the future.
Featured Image Credit: Ewa Studio, Shutterstock
