You think your British shorthair is just a fluffy ball of short hair and blue eyes? Well, behind that adorable round face, there may be some health issues you should be aware of. As a proud British shorthair owner, I believe their health needs deserve some attention. So, I summarized some British Shorthair health issues in this list. Read to the end!

• Heart Disease

  Despite their much sturdier appearance, British shorthairs can have a genetic predisposition to heart disease, specifically HCM (Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy). This condition causes the heart muscle to thicken and is often associated with an overactive thyroid. The problem is that it is difficult to recognize the early signs. Thus, regular check-ups with your veterinarian are essential.

  

• Hemophilia B

  One of the British shorthair cat health issues is Hemophilia B. It is not very common, but hereditary bleeding disorders should be watched out for. If your kitten is injured, it can bleed excessively. Based on personal experience, keeping your cat indoors and avoiding risks can help. Plus, medication will help to prevent the disease.

  

• Polycystic Kidney Disease

  Since the British shorthair is not a hypoallergenic cat, you should know about several diseases, including Polycystic Kidney Disease. This condition is caused by a flawed gene. My friend's cat has this disease. She found out when she had small cysts on her kidneys and weight loss. You can check up with your vet frequently to detect this disease early and extend your cat's lifespan.

• Cataracts

  Ever noticed a cloudy lens in your British shorthair's eye? That could be cataracts. This disease is common in British shorthairs due to their genetic characteristics. Cataracts are more common with age and can be caused by diabetes, inflammation, and infection. This disease can be treated with surgery.

  

• FIP Susceptibility

  FIP, or Feline Infectious Peritonitis, is a major problem that could affect the life of your British shorthair. While all cats can transport the virus in an inactive state, mutations can activate it. They will start to attack the immune system and damage the blood vessels. If your cat is showing any symptoms, it is important to consult immediately with your veterinarian.

  

Conclusion

As I mentioned above, these cute cats are prone to many serious diseases. I advise you to always keep an eye on your British shorthair. But don't panic too much, visit the vet regularly. After all, this cat's adorable round face and fun temperament make it totally worth it. Isn’t it?