Charities Warn of 'Frankenstein Cats' Suffering from Extreme Breeding Practices

Animal welfare charities in the UK are issuing an urgent warning about the rise of "Frankenstein cats," breeds with extreme and unnatural physical traits that cause them unnecessary suffering. Organizations like the RSPCA and Cats Protection report a booming popularity in designer cats such as Scottish Folds, Persians, Sphynx, and the emerging "XL Bully" cat, driven by social media and celebrity trends.

These breeds often possess characteristics like folded ears, shortened limbs, or a lack of fur, which, while considered desirable by some owners, result in debilitating lifelong health conditions. The trend, experts warn, could lead to cats bearing little resemblance to their traditional counterparts if cruel breeding practices continue unchecked.

Health Issues Linked to Designer Traits

The gene responsible for the folded ears in Scottish Folds, for instance, also affects cartilage, leading to abnormal bone development, chronic pain, and lameness. Alice Potter, senior scientific and policy officer at the RSPCA, stated that cats should not be forced to suffer for desirable physical traits.

Persian and British Shorthair cats, which have seen significant increases in popularity, are often brachycephalic, meaning they have been bred for extreme skull deformities resulting in very flat faces. This can cause eye problems like conjunctivitis and ulcers, dental issues, and severe breathing difficulties that limit their ability to exercise.

The "XL Bully" cat, a recent development in the UK, is created by crossing hairless Sphynx cats with short-legged Munchkin cats. These cats may lack essential whiskers for navigation and communication, suffer from painful limb deformities that restrict movement, and are vulnerable to sun exposure due to their lack of fur. Sphynx cats also struggle to regulate their body temperature, making them susceptible to overheating, as seen with abandoned Sphynx cats at RSPCA Millbrook needing constant cooling measures.

Madison Rogers, associate director of advocacy at Cats Protection, noted that while cats' body shapes have remained relatively consistent for centuries, this has dramatically changed in a short period. She warned that if action isn't taken, more "Frankenstein" cats with multiple health issues are likely to emerge.

Unregulated Breeding and Growing Concerns

Many potential owners are unaware of the severe health consequences associated with these breeds, often facing substantial veterinary bills and complex care needs. This can lead to an increase in these designer cats being surrendered to shelters. Both the RSPCA and Cats Protection have reported a rise in such cats entering their care.

The commercial breeding of cats in the UK is largely unregulated, with no specific oversight on breeding for extreme or unhealthy traits. Scotland has some licensing rules for breeders with three or more litters annually, but broader regulations are lacking. Charities are now urging the government to ban the breeding of cats with known harmful traits and appealing to the public to cease purchasing these animals.

Claire Chafer, who adopted a Scottish Fold named Fenella, shared her experience with the cat's significant health needs. Fenella's improperly formed joints prevent her from grooming herself, and her flat face leads to food getting stuck. Chafer emphasized that owning a Scottish Fold is not glamorous and highlighted the extensive care required.

Celebrity ownership of breeds like the Scottish Fold is cited as a factor contributing to their popularity, despite the inherent health problems. Charities are calling for urgent legislative action to protect cats from unnecessary suffering caused by selective breeding for extreme physical characteristics.