In a disturbing trend, animal welfare organizations are sounding the alarm. A new breed of hairless cat known as the “Bullycat” is gaining popularity on social media.
As the demand for these eye-catching felines grows, fueled by their increasing presence on social media, some breeders prioritize extreme aesthetics over the cats’ well-being.
The result is a breed grappling with the consequences of human vanity gone too far. But what are these health problems, and why are they causing such concern?
Bred for Looks, Not Health
Bullycats are the result of selective breeding that prioritizes extreme physical traits over the health and well-being of the animals.
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These cats have been deliberately bred to have unnaturally short legs, heavily wrinkled skin, and hairless bodies, all of which can lead to debilitating health issues.
Dr. Dan O’Neill from the Royal Veterinary College warns that intentionally breeding cats with genetic abnormalities, including hairlessness that increases susceptibility to sunburn, dwarfism that causes mobility problems and joint discomfort, and excessive skin folds prone to chronic infections, condemns many Bullycats to a lifetime of suffering. (ref)
A Lifetime of Pain & Discomfort
The physical deformities that give Bullycats their distinctive appearance are also the source of countless health problems that can cause these cats to suffer throughout their lives. Their short, bowed legs put an enormous strain on their joints, leading to chronic pain and mobility issues. (ref)
Moreover, the excessive skin folds that are a hallmark of the breed are prone to irritation and infection, requiring constant care and attention from their owners.
The lack of fur also leaves their delicate skin vulnerable to sunburn and makes it difficult to regulate their body temperature.
Limited Gene Pool, Uncertain Origins
The Bullycat breed is relatively new and is being bred from a limited gene pool. This lack of genetic diversity can lead to health problems as recessive genes for various disorders become more prevalent.
Some genetic health issues affecting Bullycats include heart defects, respiratory problems, and eye disorders. These conditions can be difficult and costly to treat and may significantly impact the cat’s quality of life and lifespan.
A Call for Responsible Breeding & Adoption
As the controversy surrounding the Bullycat breed continues to grow, animal welfare organizations are calling on breeders to prioritize the health and well-being of their animals over extreme physical traits.
They also urge potential cat owners to consider adopting one of the many rescue cats needing homes rather than purchasing a Bullycat from a breeder.
Dr. O’Neill urges prospective pet owners to prioritize the animal’s well-being above all else and to carefully consider the consequences before purchasing a cat or dog with exaggerated, unnatural physical features rarely found in nature.
Will you heed the call to put animal welfare first, or will the allure of owning a trendy designer pet prove too strong to resist? The fate of countless Bullycats hangs in the balance.
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.