The Oriental Shorthair cat has a specific look. These cats are friendly affectionate, smart, and curious. However, it is essential to be aware of the potential Oriental Shorthair health issues. Because of their Siamese ancestors, they are prone to certain ailments. Owners can ensure the overall health and longevity of their loved Oriental Shorthair-friendly cats by recognizing and managing these particular issues.
Most Common Health Issues Associated With Oriental Shorthair
Asthma
Feline asthma is a condition of the lower airways that affects around 5% of cats. Certain breeds are more prone to feline asthma, and the Siamese cat is one of them, so an Oriental Shorthair might be affected as well.
Asthma is a potentially life-threatening medical illness, so if you detect any symptoms, see a veterinarian right away. Coughing, wheezing, trouble breathing, fast breathing, vomiting, drowsiness, and a persistent cough are some signs to look out for.
Familial Amyloidosis
Amyloidosis is a dangerous disease that damages vital organs including the liver and kidneys, and the Oriental Shorthair is more vulnerable than other breeds. This syndrome develops when amyloids accumulate outside of the cells of numerous organs and tissues, causing disruption in those organs. It commonly appears in older cats, however, it can appear in Oriental Shorthairs as young as 1-4 years old.
Weight loss, oral ulcers, constant vomiting, and dehydration are among the symptoms. The kidneys are the most commonly affected, culminating in renal failure. However, your veterinarian will come up with a treatment plan in order to extend your pet’s life. This condition needs continual care.
Vestibular Disorder
If your Oriental Shorthair suddenly experiences dizziness and lack of balance, he or she may be suffering from vestibular disease. The vestibular system is in charge of your cat’s balance when moving around.
The system is made up of fluid-filled tubes and nerves that track the movement of your cat’s head in relation to gravity. The system is divided into two parts: one at the base of the brain and one in the inner ear. The impulses from the inner ear and the brain might cause your cat to lose balance if the system is obstructed.
While the disease appears to be horrendous, it is not a life-threatening occurrence. Most symptoms will go away within 24-48 hours, but it might take up to three weeks. If your cat exhibits any of these symptoms, you should take them to your veterinarian to rule out other diseases.
To prevent injuries, avoid allowing your Oriental Shorthair to jump up on high things of furniture until the problem clears up.
Dental Issues
One of the most frequent health problems for Oriental Shorthair cats is dental disease, which can lead to major problems if not managed. Plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth causes dental disease, which can lead to infection and tooth loss. Dental disease, if left untreated, can lead to other health issues such as heart disease and renal failure.
Inflammation of the Lungs
Because of their Siamese roots, Oriental Shorthair cats may be predisposed to chronic bronchitis. The illness is incurable and progresses slowly. A dry or hacking cough is frequently the initial sign of chronic bronchitis, which affects the lower respiratory tract. Breathing may become harder over time, and your cat’s energy could become weak.
Obesity must be avoided if your cat has bronchitis or any sort of lung infection to avoid additional complications. Medication may also be used to treat the illness.
Hyperesthesia Syndrome
This condition causes skin irritation down the back and down to the base of the tail. When petting the cat along the back, the owner can notice this condition. Your cat may scratch itself in the region you touched, or it may get angry and bite you, depending on the intensity.
Some vets believe this is a compulsive disorder, while others believe it is a seizure disorder. Self-mutilation difficulties, such as persistent scratching and digging at the places, are common, and your cat may drool. Before making a diagnosis, your veterinarian will rule out other illnesses like as spinal arthritis or fungal infection.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
PRA is a category of hereditary genetic illnesses that lead to blindness as a result of an autosomal recessive characteristic. The initial symptom is frequently night blindness, followed by total blindness. Cataracts are a second problem.
PRA is a slow-progressing disease, with most cats displaying symptoms between the ages of 3 and 5 years. Symptoms include dilated pupils, and apparent eye shine, or your cat may no longer leap on furniture and may even crash against items. Although there is no treatment, cats can adapt well to the disease.
Cancer
Oriental Shorthair cats are more likely than other breeds to develop lymphoma and mast cell cancers. Lymphocytes are a sort of white blood cell that develops abnormally throughout the body and might appear in any given location of the body when a cat has lymphoma. Fortunately, therapy for this cancer is available with a high success rate and may be diagnosed by blood testing.
Mast cell tumors are hard hairless nodules that mimic lumps or lesions under the skin. They are frequently found on the head, neck, ears, or paws. Although 90% of mast cell tumors are benign, it is vital to have your cat examined as soon as you see any form of lump or lesion.
Mast cell cancers can develop in interior organs as well. These tumors often affect the spleen, although they can also affect the gastrointestinal tract. Common symptoms include weight loss, fatigue, lack of appetite, and vomiting.
As you can see, these cats are genetically predisposed to some medical disorders, yet they are relatively healthy. Oriental shorthair lifespan can be affected by their general well-being and health. Regular veterinary check-ups, high-quality food, and an active lifestyle can go a long way.