Cat Health Guide: Common Issues by Breed

Brachycephalic breeds (Persians, Exotic Shorthairs, Himalayans) face breathing difficulties, dental crowding, and tear staining. Large breeds (Maine Coons, Savannahs) are prone to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Rex breeds (Devon, Cornish) have fragile coats and may develop hereditary baldness.

Scottish Folds can develop osteochondrodysplasia affecting joints and cartilage. Tailless breeds (Manx) risk Manx Syndrome, a spinal cord defect. All cats should receive core vaccines, annual checkups, and dental care.

Indoor cats live 12-20 years versus 2-5 for outdoor cats..