American Shorthair cats are one of the cutest and most social ones out there. However, these cats are also susceptible to some health risks. These health problems may shorten their life and may cause extreme pain to them.
But, if you stay aware of these health risks, you can protect your American Shorthair from getting ill. So, read on to know more about the health risks involved with American Shorthair and the treatment related to them.
1. Obesity
Obesity is not only a huge problem in humans but cats too, especially American Shorthair cats. The reason is that these cats are extremely fond of eating. Hence, this increases the risk of obesity in mainly American Shorthairs.
Now, the problem with obesity is that it just doesn’t stop that. So, if your American Shorthair is suffering from obesity, it can actually lead to a lot of chronic illnesses, such as diabetes and many other cardiac problems too. This may shorten the overall lifespan of your American Shorthair.
Symptoms:
Some of the obvious symptoms of obesity include excessive weight gain along with bad eating habits and disinterest in any physical activities. If you notice these, your cat might be having an obesity problem.
Treatments:
One of the best treatment options involved with obesity includes diet plans. However, you might have to take your cat to the vet. The vet can help in fixing a well-maintained diet plan, along with some additional treatment options too.
2. Hip Dysplasia
Hip Dysplasia is yet another common health risk associated with an American Shorthair. What happens in Hip Dysplasia is that the hip joints fail to develop normally. Thus, affecting the mobility and other physical activities of your cat.
Usually, the causes of this disorder include genetics, obesity, problems with nutrition, and pelvic-muscle mass too.
Symptoms:
- Reduced mobility
- Resistance to physical activities
- Pain in hip joints
- Looseness in joints
- Muscle mass loss in thigh muscles
Treatments:
If the cause of Hip Dysplasia is related to obesity, then your vet might give you a diet plan for your cat. Additionally, sometimes surgery is also required depending on the severity of your cat’s Hip Dysplasia.
For more information regarding this, you might have to visit a vet. A vet will be able to guide you in the right direction and help you make an informed decision regarding it.
3. Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Heart problems are also common in cats like American Shorthair. One such common heart problem is Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy. In Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, the walls of the heart start thickening. This can lead to a lot of problems, like blood clotting and heart failure too.
The cause of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy is linked with genetics. Usually, the American Shorthair cats between the age of five and seven are more susceptible to this disease.
Symptoms:
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Breathing issues
- Rough breathing sounds
- Irregularity in heart sounds
- Weak or low pulse
Treatment:
Depending on the severity of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, the required treatment is given. In most cases, your cat might be hospitalized. Additionally, it will also be given oxygen therapy if required.
Medication and injections are also involved as part of a treatment.
4. Other Health Risks
Some other health risks common to American Shorthair cats involve dental problems, diabetes, thyroid problems, and kidney issues too.
Hence, to keep your cat away from them, you need to give them proper nutrition and go for daily check-ups too.
Final Thoughts
To conclude, American Shorthair cats are usually healthy. However, as they are totally fond of food, they are often at risk of obesity. This obesity can further lead to heart problems and many more.
