3 Common Health Conditions In Bengal Cats
Bengal cats are known for their curiosity and leopard-like markings, making them a popular breed in the United States and abroad. These furry friends love to spend time with their human family members, and they also get along well with other pets when they are introduced gradually and given time to make the adjustment. To ensure that you have many years with your beloved Bengal, keep an eye out for signs of these health conditions, which are some of the most common medical issues to affect the breed.
1. Cataracts
Like humans, cats can develop cataracts, a condition characterized by cloudiness of the eye lens. Although some cats develop cataracts as a natural consequence of aging, this condition can also develop as a complication of diabetes, exposure to environmental toxins, or a condition called hypocalcemia, which is the medical term for a lower-than-normal level of calcium in the blood. The most telltale sign of cataracts in cats is cloudiness of the eye, but you may also notice your Bengal cat struggling to see in the dark.
2. Cardiomyopathy
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is another medical condition known to affect the Bengal breed. The term myopathy literally means "disorder of the muscle," and the prefix cardio- denotes that the disorder affects the heart. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy causes the heart muscle to thicken, which may interfere with the heart's function. While some cats with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy do not have any symptoms, others develop congestive heart failure because the thickening of the heart muscle prevents one of the chambers of the heart from distending when it pumps blood to other parts of the body. If hypertrophic cardiomyopathy causes heart failure, the cat may start vomiting, have difficulty breathing due to the accumulation of fluid around the lungs, or eat less than usual due to a decreased appetite.
3. Psychogenic Alopecia
The high-energy personality of the Bengal makes this breed more prone to psychogenic alopecia, a condition characterized by excessive grooming. When cats lick themselves excessively, it can cause clumps of hair to fall out. In severe cases, the cat may even chew on its own skin, increasing the risk for hot spots. Cats can develop psychogenic alopecia in response to any trigger, including the introduction of a new pet to the home, depression, the presence of a baby in the home, or a move to a new home. The condition should be treated quickly so that skin damage does not lead to other medical problems.
Bengal cats are excellent companions, as they are inquisitive, affectionate, and playful. Despite these positive qualities, the Bengal breed is prone to developing certain health conditions, such as cataracts, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and psychogenic alopecia. If you are thinking about adding a Bengal cat to your family, buy from a reputable breeder. Anyone who offers Bengal cats for sale should offer a health guarantee and be willing to share the health records of the cat's parents. Once you bring the cat home, make sure it is examined by a veterinarian regularly so that any medical issues can be treated promptly.