Britain’s love affair with cats has taken a surprising turn, with sales of purebred pedigree cats officially overtaking the beloved moggie for the first time ever.
But there can be hidden health risks lurking behind those cute faces, warns Sarah Elliott, Central Veterinary Officer for Cats Protection.
New research from Cats Protection's "Cats and Their Stats Report 2024" reveals that a whopping 45% of all cats bought between March 2023 and March 2024 were pedigrees or purebreds—that's 715,000 cats—while only 43% were moggies (685,000).
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The remainder were cross-breeds. This marks a significant shift, as just three years ago, moggies reigned supreme with 51% of purchases (715,000) compared to only 35% pedigrees (490,000).
Experts believe this dramatic change could be due to the rise of social media influencers and celebrities showing off their eye-catching, purebred cats online. But many of these stars may be blissfully unaware of the serious health issues linked to certain breeds.
While some pedigree cats are responsibly bred, unfortunately, there are still plenty of hazards for unwary buyers. Many people are drawn to a cat’s ‘cute’ or ‘unusual’ appearance without realising the extreme body types of some breeds can result in severe health problems.
Breeds with traits like hairlessness, short legs, or a flat-face might seem adorable, but the reality can include hefty vet bills, complex care needs, and, tragically, a poor quality of life for the cats themselves.
Shockingly, these issues often remain hidden during a kitten's early life, catching unsuspecting owners by surprise. Elliott advises potential cat owners to do their homework before bringing a pedigree cat into their lives.
Take the popular Scottish Fold, famously owned by stars like Ed Sheeran and Taylor Swift. These cats may look cute with their folded ears, but they suffer from degenerative joint disease and can develop painful arthritis.
In a heartbreaking case, Cats Protection in Worthing recently took in an ultra flat-faced Persian cat named Bumble, whose owner could no longer care for her. Bumble is suffering from a condition called corneal sequestrum, common in Persian cats, where part of the eye tissue dies, creating a painful, inflamed black spot. Bumble’s treatment is ongoing, and it remains to be seen if she can be fully cured before finding a new home.
So, before you rush out to buy that Instagram-worthy feline, consider Cats Protection's advice:
- Research the breed: Find out about any health concerns and welfare issues. Choose a breeder carefully and ask if the parents have been screened for genetic illnesses.
- Talk to a vet: It’s always a good idea to consult a vet or a cat behaviourist before making a decision.
- Think moggie: Don't overlook the humble moggie! These mixed-breed cats offer just as much love, companionship, and charm as their fancy purebred counterparts, often without the hefty vet bills.
So, cat lovers, think before you buy—your wallet and your furry friend may thank you for it!
To read the Cats And Their Stats Report 2024 then please click here and for more details on caring for cats, visit Cats Protection.