There are several common health problems that you might notice in your Munchkin cat. These include Arthritis, Lordosis, Pectus excavatum, and Hyperthyroidism. Your vet can diagnose these conditions and help you treat them. You should also keep an eye out for signs of urinary tract infections.
Arthritis
Arthritis in a Munchkin cat can impact its joints and affect its quality of life. It can cause a cat to have limited mobility, walk with an abnormal gait, and be unwilling to engage in normal activities. Arthritis can be difficult to manage, but there are several options for treatment.
Arthritis in a Munchkin cat is caused by a breakdown of cartilage in the joints. This degenerative disease is common in many breeds of cats but is more common in Munchkin cats due to their abnormal limb shape. It can also lead to abnormal bone growth around the joint and the thickening of the joint capsule.
Lordosis
Lordosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine, which can lead to pain and mobility issues. It is typically inherited, and symptoms can be seen from birth. In some cases, a specialized procedure is necessary to correct the curvature. This may require risky surgery.
The first step is to determine whether your Munchkin cat has this condition. A vet may order x-rays to diagnose this disorder and assess the severity of the condition. Your veterinarian may prescribe a prescription for a painkiller that will help relieve the pain.
Pectus excavatum
Pectus excavatum in kittens is a common health problem and can be treated successfully. The condition is most often removed with surgery and the kitten will have a high chance of full recovery. The surgery should be done at a young age, usually between eight and twelve weeks. During this time, the thorax is compliant and the patient is old enough to tolerate anesthesia.
Pectus excavatum is a congenital deformity of the sternum, causing the chest to become flat. It can also impede normal heart function. It can cause trouble breathing and may be painful. It can also affect a kitten’s ability to move around.
Hyperthyroidism
A blood test can confirm hyperthyroidism in cats. It usually shows an increase in the amount of T4, which is produced by the thyroid gland. T4 is then converted into the active form, T3, by the thyroid. A T4 test report will state the result and “normal range”. If the result is at the high end of the range, then your cat may be suffering from hyperthyroidism. If your pet’s blood test is abnormally high, you’ll have to have it checked by a veterinarian.
While this condition usually does not progress rapidly, it is common for overweight cats to develop hyperthyroidism. Some symptoms of hyperthyroidism include increased appetite and excessive thirst. The condition can also cause hyperactivity and an unkempt appearance. In many cases, symptoms do not become obvious for months or even years.
Heart disease
The heart of a Munchkin cat can be affected by a number of conditions. The breed’s short legs, called lordosis, can lead to a decreased amount of space in the chest, limiting cardiac function. To correct this issue, specialized surgery is sometimes necessary. It may be risky but can help a Munchkin live a healthy life.
Symptoms include accumulation of fluid around the heart and abdominal cavity. It also causes a loud heart murmur. A cat suffering from this problem may also develop arrhythmias. If left untreated, a cat can collapse suddenly and die.
