Figure 1: Sphynx cat

The scientific paper “Breed-related Disorder of Cats” by Gunn-Moore et al discuses the negative consequences cats are being forced to endure due to selective breeding. In the past, cats have been very genetically diverse, as they are very un-selective when mating, and a wide variety of mates are often available. It was not until the 19^th century that humans began to take an interest in selectively breeding cats for desired features including coat quality, body and head shape, eye color, and size. The first cat show was held in the Crystal Palace in London in 1871. Since then, humans have created many new breeds of cat (Gunn-moore et al).

Figure 2: Munchkin cat

This study examines data given to the authors by veterinary clinics. It states that of the United Kingdom's 60 million cats, 10% of them are considered purebred. While this may not appear to be a significant figure of cats, one must remember that 10% of 60 million is a large number of 600,000 pure bred cats in the UK alone. A lot of cats are being purebred. Unfortunately, the breeding of such cats is having many negative consequences. Many cats are inbred, resulting in diseases and disorders being associated with certain breeds. Traits being purposely breed for are also having harmful affects on cats (Gunn-Moore et al).

Figure 4:Manx cat

Figure 3: Scottish Fold

Some examples of cat breeds suffering from the affects of artifice breeding include the Manx, Sphynx, Munchkin, and Scottish Fold breeds.  Manx cats have been breed to have a little stubby tail. However, the genes responsible for shorting the cat’s tail also shorten its spine, often resulting in severe arthritis and digestion problems. Sphynx cats are bred (for some strange reason) to be hairless. This often results in Sphynx cats getting sunburnt and chilled. Munchkin cats, though adorable, often develop arthritis in their unnaturally short legs. Scottish Folds are famous for their folded ears. Sadly, the genes that folds the cartilage in their ears can also fold the cartilage in other parts of their bodies, often resulting in damage to their limbs and tails (Gunn-Moore et al).

While some animal rights activists claim all selective breeding efforts on cats should be ended, the scientists in this paper believe that some forms of selective breeding are not harmful to cats and can result in better pets. They recommend breeding cats for traits such as behavior instead of traits, like folded ears, boldness, short legs, and short tails, that are linked to harmful physical defects. The authors do not recommend purchasing the above listed cats and instead suggest selecting a healthy and genetically diverse cat from a shelter (Gunn-Moore et al).

Works Cited:

 Gunn-Moore, D, Besssant, C, and Malik, R, 2008, “Breed-Related Disorders of Cats,” Journal of Small Animal Practice, Vol. 49, 4, pgs. 167-168.

Figure 1: From http://imgkid.com/cute-sphynx-cat.shtml obtained on 20/04/15.

Figure 2: From http://www.vetstreet.com/cats/munchkin obtaiend on 20/04/15.

 Figure 3: From http://www.catbreedsjunction.com/scottish-fold-cats.html obtained on 20/04/15.

Figure 4: From: http://www.biologycorner.com/APbiology/inheritance/11-6_lethal_alleles.html obtained on  20/04/15.