One of the most polarizing differences between dogs and cats is the number of breeds. Roughly 378 canine races exist to the 73 recognized by The International Cat Association (TICA). Selective breeding is a relatively new thing for both animals. Canines initially served functional roles, like hunting companions. Felines were mousers. Now, we have designer cats and dogs.
Selective breeding allowed people to favor specific traits. Think of the large size and frame of the Mastiff. That made them formidable guardians of livestock and property. It also went the other way with the Pomeranian and larger Spitz-like dogs. Somehow, cats escaped these trends. After all, they do their job well, regardless of their size and appearance.
The Rise of Designer Pets
The Labradoodle initiated the rise of the so-called designer dogs. The aim was a pup that would embody the desirable traits of both parent breeds, with the bonus of not shedding. That was the goal, anyway. Genetics has the final say. It’s worth noting that Wally Conron, the man credited with this fad, regrets it.
It has led to many unwise pairings, particularly if a breeder doesn’t conduct health screenings. That could increase the risk of dangerous mutations, resulting in harmful hereditary and congenital conditions. Many result in early mortality and a poor quality of life.
The Health of Designer Cats
Sadly, the trend has found our feline companions with bully cats, pets selectively bred to resemble bulldogs. The designer cats have short legs and are hairless. The problem is that the parent stock includes animals with mutations that carry other health risks. For example, the Persian is more likely to develop polycystic kidney disease because of piggyback mutations.
Bully cats have similar issues because of their parents. Hairless breeds like the Sphynx don’t live as long as other pets. One study found an average of 6 years. These animals are at a greater risk of skin cancer and sunburn because of the lack of a dense coat. They aren’t completely hairless but have a peach fuzz-like furn. Short-legged felines have other health problems.
It’s one thing to selectively breed felines for particular colors or desirable traits. It’s another matter to start with animals already at a disadvantage. Another variation on this theme is purported teacup pets. Again, it involves breeding runts with a greater propensity for health issues intentionally.
Clearly, bully cats couldn’t survive in the wild. Natural selection would see their demise because of the challenges they would face. Another disadvantage facing the Sphynx is the lack of whiskers. That may seem like a minor aesthetic concern, but they are vital for felines to navigate their world indoors or outdoors.
Designer cats raise quality of life issues when individuals breed animals that are already at a disadvantage. Let’s put that into perspective. The average annual cost of owning a cat is between $961 and $2,487. Health-related expenses account for about $374 to $965. The cost of keeping a bully cat healthy with their increased risks will likely run much higher. Relinquishment then becomes a concern.
Final Thoughts
The humanization of pet ownership is the proverbial double-edged sword. Animals getting better care is positive. However, designer cats are an unfortunate offshoot of individuals wanting to selectively breed felines for profit. Fortunately, animal welfare organizations like the Naturewatch Foundation aim to educate prospective pet owners to support ethical breeding.
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