Symptoms of Folded Ear Cat Disease: What to Look Out Fo

It's a known fact that the Cobby cat, with its distinctive folded ears, is prone to hereditary skeletal disorders such as chondrodysplasia, skeletal deformities, and osteoarthritis. These conditions stem from their inherent genetic defects. The worst part is that there's no cure for these diseases; treatment can only alleviate symptoms with medication. However, many pet owners are unaware of these genetic issues in Cobby cats, which can lead to delayed detection when their pets fall ill. Therefore, it's crucial for owners to recognize the symptoms so they can act promptly. Let's delve into these details together!

Understanding the Symptoms of Cobby Cat Illness

The symptoms of a Cobby cat's illness are typically closely related to their hereditary skeletal diseases. Here's a detailed description of the common signs:

1. Stiff and Deformed Tail: The cat's tail may become rigid, atrophied, or show grooves, often presenting an abnormal shape and a sense of stiffness, which is a hallmark of the disease.

2. Abnormal Rear Limbs: The cat's hind legs may exhibit unusual bends or an overly upright posture. They may also change their posture to sit, lift their feet, or shift their weight to reduce pain.

3. Joint and Skeletal Issues: Swelling, bony overgrowths, or lumps in the joints, as well as abnormal angles of curvature, can occur. These issues can cause immense pain for the cat.

4. Decreased Activity: The cat may become less active, appearing lazy and weak. They might spend long periods hunched or showing signs of limping.

In young Cobby cats, symptoms may include a lack of movement, sitting in one place for extended periods, and an inability to jump to high places. They might also involuntarily lift their arms due to the severe pain from joint compression. Additionally, their paws may become thickened, and their claws may grow abnormally.

The above are common symptoms of a Cobby cat's illness. The onset of the disease is gradual, with the cat initially showing a lack of movement, which can escalate into more severe symptoms over time. It's important to note that each Cobby cat may exhibit different symptoms, and not all will present with the same issues.

What to Do When a Cobby Cat Falls Ill

Upon noticing any abnormalities in a Cobby cat, it's essential to seek veterinary care immediately to alleviate their suffering. Treatment typically involves medication tailored to the symptoms. Medications like meloxicam and chondroitin are often prescribed to relieve pain and discomfort. However, it's crucial to understand that medication is only a supportive measure and cannot cure the disease. Given the unstable genetics of Cobby cats, these diseases are challenging to prevent and currently have no cure. Nonetheless, timely medication to control the symptoms is vital to prevent the cat from experiencing extreme pain.

In summary, the symptoms of Cobby cat illness include abnormalities in the tail, rear limbs, joints, and skeletal structure, as well as a decrease in activity. Young cats may also exhibit specific behaviors and signs. If you notice these symptoms in your Cobby cat, it's important to take them to the vet promptly to relieve their pain and improve their quality of life. Considering the high incidence of illness and the complexity of caring for Cobby cats, it's advisable to carefully consider whether you should adopt one as a pet.