Is it possible for cats to have down syndrome? This is a common question vet, and pet care professionals ask. Although the short answer is no, cats can have down syndrome-like symptoms. You can find everything from unusual behaviour to charming (and loving) physical appearances.
We’ll be discussing genetic mutations in cats that can cause them to have down syndrome-like characteristics, also how you can help your cat if she has these symptoms.
Down Syndrome-Like Symptoms in Cats
Cats with Down syndrome can have both mental and physical symptoms. Remember that every cat is unique. This is what makes cats unique and special. Your cat will not look exactly like any other cat of the same breed. Keep an eye out for signs that may resemble down syndrome:
- Flat or squished nose
- Face perpetually saddened
- The eyes are spaced widely on the face
- Eyes open
- Walking sluggish
- Excreting is difficult
- Motor dysfunction
- Heart problems
- Hearing loss
- Vision loss
If your cat has any of these symptoms, you should take her to the veterinarian to determine the cause. Although kitties can’t be diagnosed with Down Syndrome, genetic disorders or similar illnesses in cats can be detected. We’ll investigate next.
What Causes Down Syndrome-like Symptoms in Cats?
Cats can suffer from different disabilities due to various genetic disorders. Feline down syndrome, which can manifest as behavioural and physical abnormalities in cats, could indicate many other conditions, including neurological diseases, infections and trauma.
Take, for example, Infected cats in utero by the panleukopenia virus. Any of the same symptoms as down syndrome can also affect cats. Also, cats can suffer from these conditions. Hypoplasia cerebellar condition that can cause down syndrome-like behaviour traits.
Any type of trauma to the head and face, even at an early age, permanent neurological damage can occur, and injuries may appear to have been there since birth. Different congenital malformations can be seen in cats whose mothers have been exposed to certain toxic chemicals. These toxins can affect the brain and facial structure.
If your pet has a genetic disorder or disease, your vet can run special tests and do an X-ray. Cats have been known to have a genetic disorder that is similar to feline down syndrome.
You might also want to think about another thing. You will need to provide accessories for your cat if she is diagnosed with the condition that requires surgery. You should be cautious with your cat’s collar if she has just had surgery or has a joint problem in her neck or shoulder blades. Ask your vet to help you choose the best collar for your feline friend.
Why Cats Can’t Have Down Syndrome
Down syndrome is caused by an extra copy of one chromosome from the 21st couple. Humans have 23 different chromosomes. Down syndrome is technically not possible for cats because they only have 19 of the 23 chromosomes.
However, genetic mutations can occur in cats. However, this doesn’t mean that cats with unusual physical traits, such as poor muscle tone or aloof behaviour, have an increased number of chromosomes.
On the other side, dogs have more chromosome pairs than humans and can also have an additional chromosome copy within the 21 pair. However, dogs can still experience down syndrome.
Last Thoughts
Because of the cat’s genetic structure, the feline down syndrome cannot be achieved. However, similar symptoms can be caused by neurological or other genetic disorders. If your cat exhibits similar characteristics to Down syndrome, you should take her to a vet to have her evaluated and treated.
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