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The exotic breed has a somewhat controversial beginning in the 1950s. This came about when breeders of American shorthairs wanted to improve their breed’s face and eye shape, and so cross- bred the ASH with Persian cats. The results were a cute cat that the purists argued was too different from the ASH to be counted as one. Too sweet to be ignored these hybrids were eventually recognized as a breed in their own right and called exotics. Out crosses have not been allowed since 1975, with the gene pool considered large enough.
Interestingly, exotic shorthairs carry a recessive gene for a long coat. However, these longhaired kittens are not known as Persians but as exotic longhairs!
Exotic Health: Why do they Need a Pet Insurance Plan?
Unfortunately, the Persian genes in the exotic breed raise the risk of exotics developing polycystic kidney disease. This genetic condition causes cysts to form in the kidneys and by two or three years of age; the cat has failing kidneys. Your vet assesses the damage by scanning the kidneys and blood tests. Whilst there is no cure, therapy such as intravenous fluids, prescription diets, and medication can help them keep well for longer.
Another exotic quirk is their urine provides the right conditions for calcium oxalate bladder stones to grow. These irritate the bladder lining, and may even pass into the urethra and cause a blockage that requires emergency surgery.
Other Insurance Considerations:
• The exotic’s cute face comes with drawbacks. He has deep skin folds beneath his eyes, and these warm, damp creases provide an ideal home for bacteria and yeasts. Skin fold infections are common, and in the worst cases corrective surgery may be needed to remove the fold.
• The exotic’s shortened jaw comes with a full complement of teeth, and his crowded mouth is prone to bacterial infections. Dental check-ups are essential and expect your exotic to need regular dental hygiene treatments.
• The exotic’s narrow nostrils are not ideal and lead to upper respiratory tract problems. Any colds need prompt treatment to help their breathing.
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Select a pet to learn more about specific breed.
Dog Cat
Choose a breed and learn more about your pet's health care needs.
