8 Brachycephalic cats: flat-faced cat

When you see a cat with a smooshed-in face gazing at you with those big, round eyes, it’s hard not to fall in love. These distinctive felines, known as brachycephalic cats or flat-faced cats, have captured the hearts of cat lovers worldwide with their unique appearance. However, their adorable faces come with specific health considerations that every potential owner should understand.

Expert Insights

Dr. Jessica Apted, DVM, Regional Medical Director for Sploot Veterinary Care, brings her extensive experience in treating brachycephalic cats to help us understand these special felines. Her insights throughout this article will help prospective and current owners better care for their flat-faced companions.

Understanding Brachycephalic Features

The term “brachycephalic” comes from Greek words meaning “short” and “head.” These cats are characterized by their shortened skull bones, resulting in a flattened face and compressed nasal passages. While this gives them their distinctive appearance, it also presents various health challenges that require careful attention and management.

Health Considerations

Respiratory Challenges

The most significant health concern for brachycephalic cats is Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS). This condition manifests through:

Noticeable snoring and snorting sounds
Difficulty breathing, especially during exercise or stress
Increased susceptibility to respiratory infections
Potential breathing emergencies in high-stress or high-temperature situations

Dental Complications

The compressed facial structure often leads to dental issues:

Overcrowded teeth due to limited jaw space
Higher risk of periodontal disease
Increased occurrence of tooth resorption, where the tooth structure breaks down
Difficulty eating and maintaining proper oral hygiene

Eye-Related Issues

Their prominent eyes are particularly vulnerable:

Increased risk of injury due to protruding eye position
Chronic tearing and discharge
Skin irritation from tear staining
Potential for corneal ulcers and infections

Skin Concerns

The facial skin folds require special attention:

Moisture accumulation in skin folds
Risk of bacterial and fungal infections
Regular cleaning needed to prevent dermatitis
Potential for chronic skin issues if not properly maintained

Temperature Sensitivity

Their unique facial structure affects temperature regulation:

Increased risk of heat stroke
Difficulty cooling down in warm weather
Need for climate-controlled environments
Extra precautions during summer months or in hot climates

Popular Brachycephalic Cat Breeds

Persian

The Persian cat stands as royalty among flat-faced breeds, dating back to the 1600s in ancient Mesopotamia. These elegant felines have become the archetype of brachycephalic cats.

Breed Overview:

Height: 10-15 inches
Weight: 7-12 pounds
Lifespan: 12-17 years
Personality: Gentle, calm, and dignified
Energy Level: Low to moderate
Coat: Long, thick, and requiring daily maintenance
Colors: Available in numerous colors and patterns

Persians are known for their sweet dispositions and make excellent indoor companions. Their calm nature makes them perfect lap cats, though they require significant grooming commitment.

Himalayan

A fascinating blend of Persian and Siamese genetics, the Himalayan emerged from careful breeding programs at Harvard University in the 1930s. These cats combine the best qualities of both parent breeds.

Breed Overview:

Height: 10-12 inches
Weight: 7-12 pounds
Lifespan: 12-15 years
Personality: Gentle, playful, and social
Energy Level: Moderate
Coat: Long and silky with color points
Colors: Various point colors including seal, blue, chocolate, and lilac

Himalayans offer a perfect balance of affection and playfulness, making them excellent family pets.

British Shorthair

British Shorthairs still display brachycephalic features while not as extreme in their facial structure as Persians. Their Roman ancestry gives them a distinguished heritage.

Breed Overview:

Height: 12-14 inches
Weight: 9-17 pounds
Lifespan: 12-20 years
Personality: Reserved, independent, yet affectionate
Energy Level: Moderate
Coat: Dense, plush, and relatively low-maintenance
Colors: Most famous in British Blue, but available in many colors

These felines are renowned for their laid-back disposition and versatility in a range of living conditions.

British Longhair

Essentially a long-haired version of the British Shorthair, these cats emerged from breeding programs in the early 20th century.

Breed Overview:

Height: 12-14 inches
Weight: 9-17 pounds
Lifespan: 12-16 years
Personality: Intelligent, food-motivated, and gentle
Energy Level: Moderate
Coat: Long, thick, requiring regular grooming
Colors: Available in all colors and patterns

These cats combine the British Shorthair’s temperament with a luxurious long coat.

Exotic Shorthair

Often called the “lazy man’s Persian,” Exotic Shorthairs were developed to create a Persian-type cat with easier maintenance requirements.

Breed Overview:

Height: 10-12 inches
Weight: 8-12 pounds
Lifespan: 12-15 years
Personality: Sweet, playful, and family-oriented
Energy Level: Moderate
Coat: Short, plush, and dense
Colors: Available in all Persian colors

These cats offer the Persian personality in a more manageable package.

Scottish Fold

Known for their distinctive folded ears, Scottish Folds emerged from a natural mutation discovered in Scotland in 1961.

Breed Overview:

Height: 8-10 inches
Weight: 6-13 pounds
Lifespan: 11-15 years
Personality: Sweet, adaptable, and devoted
Energy Level: Moderate to high
Coat: Both short and long varieties are available
Colors: Various colors and patterns

Their unique appearance and loving personality make them popular pets.

Selkirk Rex

Distinguished by their curly coat, Selkirk Rex cats are relatively new to the cat fancy, originating in 1988.

Breed Overview:

Height: 9-11 inches
Weight: 6-16 pounds
Lifespan: 10-15 years
Personality: Patient, affectionate, and playful
Energy Level: Moderate
Coat: Curly, available in both long and short
Colors: All colors and patterns

Their unique curly coat and loving personality make them stand out.

Burmese

While less extreme in their brachycephalic features, Burmese cats still display some flat-faced characteristics.

Breed Overview:

Height: 10-12 inches
Weight: 6-12 pounds
Lifespan: 12-16 years
Personality: Extremely social, intelligent, and dog-like
Energy Level: High
Coat: Short, silky, and low-maintenance
Colors: Traditional sable and other accepted colors

They make wonderful companions because of their captivating personalities and close relationship with people.

Alternative Breeds to Consider

If the health concerns associated with brachycephalic cats give you pause, consider these alternatives:

American Shorthair
Maine Coon
Russian Blue
Siberian
Norwegian Forest Cat
Ragdoll

These breeds offer various wonderful qualities without the potential health challenges of flat-faced cats.

Conclusion

Having a brachycephalic cat is a responsibility as well as a joy. While these cats can make wonderful companions, potential owners should carefully consider the additional care requirements and possible health issues. Regular veterinary check-ups, proper grooming, and monitoring for health concerns are essential parts of caring for these special felines.

The decision to bring a flat-faced cat into your home should be made with full awareness of the rewards and challenges. With proper care and attention to their unique needs, these distinctive cats can bring their fortunate owners years of joy and companionship.

Frequently Asked Questions About Brachycephalic Cats

What exactly makes a cat “brachycephalic”?

Brachycephalic cats have a shortened skull structure that results in a flattened face and compressed nasal passages. This genetic trait has been selectively bred into certain cat breeds over generations. “Brachycephalic” is derived from the Greek terms “short” and “head.”

Are flat-faced cats more expensive to care for?

Yes, brachycephalic cats often have higher care costs due to:

More frequent veterinary check-ups
Potential need for dental procedures
Possible respiratory treatments
Special grooming requirements
Higher likelihood of requiring emergency care

Do brachycephalic cats need special food?

While they don’t necessarily need special food, they may benefit from:

Kibble-sized and shaped for their unique facial structure
Wet food if they have difficulty with dry food
Elevated food bowls to make eating more comfortable
Food specifically formulated for their breed’s needs

How can I tell if my flat-faced cat is having breathing problems?

Watch for these signs:

Excessive snoring or wheezing
Open-mouth breathing
Rapid breathing at rest
Blue-tinged gums
Reluctance to exercise
Collapse or fainting If you notice any of these symptoms, seek veterinary care immediately.

Can brachycephalic cats fly on airplanes?

While it’s possible, it’s generally not recommended due to:

Increased stress on their respiratory system
Risk of overheating
Difficulty adapting to pressure changes If travel is necessary, consult with your veterinarian and consider cabin travel rather than cargo.

Are flat-faced cats good with children?

This depends on the specific breed and individual cat, but generally:

Many breeds are kind and patient, such as Persians and Exotic Shorthairs.
Their calm temperament often suits family life
Children should be taught to be gentle due to these cats’ physical sensitivities
Adult supervision is always recommended

How often do brachycephalic cats need grooming?

Grooming requirements vary by breed:

Long-haired breeds (Persian, Himalayan): Daily brushing and regular professional grooming
Short-haired breeds (Exotic Shorthair): Weekly brushing
All breeds need regular facial fold cleaning
The eye area needs daily attention to prevent staining

What’s the life expectancy of flat-faced cats?

Life expectancy varies by breed but generally ranges from 10-15 years. Many can live into their mid-teens or beyond with proper care and regular veterinary attention. Health management plays a crucial role in longevity.

Can brachycephalic cats exercise normally?

While they can play and exercise, they need some modifications:

Shorter play sessions
Regular breaks to prevent overexertion
Temperature-controlled environment
Monitoring for signs of respiratory distress
Focus on low-intensity activities

Are there any special environmental needs for flat-faced cats?

Yes, these cats benefit from:

Air conditioning during warm weather
Humidifiers to help with breathing
Multiple water stations throughout the home
Elevated feeding stations
Clean, dust-free environment
Easy access to litter boxes

How do I clean my cat’s facial folds?

To properly clean facial folds:

Use a gentle, moist cloth or unscented baby wipes.
Gently wipe between the folds daily
Ensure the area is completely dry
Watch for signs of irritation or infection
Consider pet-specific fold-cleaning products

What should I ask a breeder before getting a brachycephalic kitten?

Important questions include:

Health testing performed on parent cats
History of respiratory issues in the line
Genetic testing for breed-specific conditions
Vaccination and early veterinary care
Socialization and early handling practices
Support offered after purchase

How do I prevent my flat-faced cat from overheating?

Prevention strategies include:

Maintaining air conditioning
Providing multiple water sources
Limiting outdoor time in warm weather
Using cooling mats or pads
Monitoring for signs of heat stress
Keeping them at a healthy weight

Are there special considerations for spaying/neutering brachycephalic cats?

Yes, these procedures require special attention:

Choose a veterinarian experienced with brachycephalic breeds
Discuss anesthesia protocols specific to flat-faced cats
Consider additional monitoring during surgery
Plan for possible longer recovery time
Schedule surgery during cooler months if possible

This FAQ section addresses common concerns and provides practical advice for caring for brachycephalic cats. Would you like me to expand on any of these topics or add additional questions?