Cat Cheek Development: Essential Conditions Explained

What is Cat Cheek Development?

When we talk about "cheek development" in cats, we're actually referring to the plump cheeks that form on either side of the face. This is a distinctive feature typically found in male cats and contributes to a change in their facial shape from triangular to round, making them appear more adorable and endearing.

In the realm of popular aesthetics, roundfaced cats are often considered cuter than those with a triangular face. As a result, more and more people are hoping that their feline companions will achieve this charming cheek development.

Conditions for Cat Cheek Development

While most cats can develop round faces, it's not always the result of cheek development. There are specific conditions that need to be met for a cat to undergo cheek development:

1. Age Factor

On average, cats need to pass through the 28month age range, known as the awkward stage, before they can start to grow the cheek fat under the influence of body hormones, which is the process of cheek development. Most cats begin to develop cheeks between 6 and 8 months of age. Unneutered male cats tend to have more pronounced cheek development, and the process usually ends once the cat reaches maturity. The exact timeline can vary depending on the cat's breed and growth characteristics.

2. Gender Factor

Cheek development is a secondary sexual characteristic of male cats, so it's more common in males. Female cats rarely experience cheek development, and a plump face in females is often simply a result of weight gain.

Of course, not all male cats will develop cheeks. The key factor in whether a cat will develop cheeks lies in its genetic makeup. If a cat lacks the genes for cheek development, it will be difficult for it to achieve this trait.

3. Breed Factor

Cat cheek development is strongly linked to genetic predisposition. Breeds like British Shorthair, Persian, Chinchilla, Himalayan, Domestic Pure White, Calico, and Tabby are more prone to cheek development. American Shorthair and Domestic Black cats can also develop cheeks, though less commonly. On the other hand, breeds like Siamese, Russian Blue, Sphynx, Oriental Shorthair, Devon Rex, and Calico are generally not prone to cheek development. So, pet owners should not overfeed their cats in the hope of cheek development, as this can lead to obesity and related health issues.

Cat cheek development can also be influenced by nutrition. If your cat is a breed that is prone to cheek development, you can help it achieve this by increasing its intake of proteinrich foods and ensuring a balanced diet. Additionally, regular deworming is important to prevent internal parasites from affecting the cat's normal development.