Pet owners can't get enough of a flat faced cat. However, what is so appealing about them?
Some would say it’s their shoe button eyes while others are fascinated by their soft pug nose.
However, what makes them so unique among other cats is their flat face that makes them look similar to cuddly stuffed toys.
If you find cats with flat faces are fascinating, then read on to learn more about them. Who knows, you may find your ideal companion in a flat face kitty.
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Flat faced kittens: What is brachycephaly?
Brachycephaly means "short skull," and this is the scientific term used to describe animals with flat faces.
You've probably read about this term in some articles pertaining bulldogs and pugs.
In most cases, brachycephaly occurs in dogs. However, cats are also susceptible to this trait.
Brachycephalic or a flat faced cat, have distorted skulls that are shorter than typical cats. This trait is a desirable feature in cats.
A flat faced kitty with a tiny squishy nose and big eyes would undoubtedly catch everyone's attention.
There are several types of flat faced felines. There are cat breeds that have a shorter skull and a flatter face than other races.
Cats with flat faces
Short hair flat faced cat: Exotic Short hair
This flat faced cat greatly resemble giant teddy bears due to their big eyes and bulbous bellies.
They also closely resemble Persians, but their most remarkable characteristic is their short velvety fur.
The Exotic Shorthair flat faced cat is friendly and loves being held. You will find them mostly curling up on your lap.
Since these cats are natural couch potatoes, it's your responsibility to watch their weight by giving them healthy food and luring them to move more and play.
Additionally, keep an eye on them during the hotter months because they are likely to experience breathing problems especially on warm days. Which can develop similar issues to heavy breathing cats.
Another critical thing to remember is that they have eyes that are prone to infection.
However, overall, the maintenance of this cat is effortless and typically low. These types are fun playmates who are easily entertained.
Himalayan Cat
This breed is a cross between the Siamese and Persian cats.
What's fascinating about the Himalayan Cats is that they have a playful and mischievous nature that makes them perfect playmates.
You can never get bored with their company because they like to hang out with humans and play. Plus, they also love to cuddle.
They are also independent as they can entertain themselves when they are left alone.
Although they are very laid back and patient, you need to commit more time with this breed because they quickly get bored when they're left on their own, even with their toys and devices.
Just like the Exotic Short hair flat faced cat, maintenance of Himalayan Cat is low. However, it might need to be groomed continuously due to its long and thick fur.
Scottish Fold
As the name implies, this breed of flat faced feline originated in Scotland.
The most distinguishing feature of the Scottish Fold is their curled up ears.They have stunning large round eyes, and they either have long or short fur.
What makes them so adorable is that they act innocent and playful like kittens even when they are already in the adult stage.
Not only that, but they also love physical affection. They are gentle and kind in nature, so they are the ideal pet especially if you have kids at home.
They have a unique habit of sitting up on their back legs which are typically seen done by prairie dogs.
Selkirk Rex
If you prefer a calmer and quieter flat faced cat that would spend more time snoozing than playing, then this might be the perfect pet for you.
They may be lazy by nature, but they are also affectionate and gentle. So they love curling up with you when you take a nap.
When it comes to appearance, the Selkirk Rex will stand out. They have lovely curly furs that are soft to the touch. This breed is seen in 2 fur lengths – long and short.
The head is round with medium-sized ears and a distinct muzzle. Their tantalizing round eyes give them a smiling expression that adds to their natural appeal.
They have large bat-like ears that make their eyes look even more significant. Their pretty small face, although flat, has curly whiskers that make them super cute. If you love curls, then you'll love this cat.
Persian Cat
The Persian is probably the most popular flat faced cat breed known today.
Persian Cats are typically affectionate and sweet towards their owners. They can be laid back and playful as well.
They enjoy the company of people as much as they enjoy lounging in the sun.
Additionally, their silky-smooth fur is probably the most pressing reason why Persian cats are loved.
However, it is important to remember that they will require constant grooming to maintain their gleaming and silky coat.
Just like the Exotic Short hair flat faced cat, you also need to keep an eye on them during hot summer months because they usually experience breathing difficulty.
British Short hair
This flat faced feline looks like a giant ball of fluff due to its thick, insulated fur.
They are often confused with the Scottish Fold due to their striking resemblance.
However, the British Shorthair can be distinguished by its pointy triangle ears.
British Shorthair cats are gentle in nature and are typically well-behaved that get along with people and other animals alike.
They are calm cats that prefer cuddling to playing. Due to their laid-back nature, they enjoy a peaceful environment more than a rowdy one.
Maintenance is typically low for British Short hair cats but makes it a habit of brushing and grooming their fur. Trust me; they would love that.
Burmilla
This breed of domestic cat is a cross between the Burmese and Chinchilla Persian, hence the name ‘Burmilla’.
Cats belonging to this breed are quite gentle yet mischievous.
Their temperament is closely similar to the Scottish Fold as they also display kitten-like traits even into adulthood.
Due to their playful and mischievous nature, they can become energetic and clumsy at times.
Their distinctive eyes are what makes them unique from other flat faced kittens.
Most of the flat faced cat types have round button eyes. The Burmilla cat, on the other hand, has slightly slanted eyes that are curved upward with a fuller curved lower line.
They are also known for their luminous green eyes.
They may have very distinctive eyes, but their most distinguishing feature is their sparkling silver coat that may be either shorthair or semi-long hair.
Flat faced Munchkin cat
Also known as Sausage Cat, the flat faced Munchkin cat is best known for their very short legs as a result of the genetic mutation.
If you prefer small-sized cats, then the flat faced Munchkin cat is the perfect pet for you.
They may have short bowed legs, but you'll be surprised by their fantastic running and leaping abilities.
Their hind legs are slightly longer than their front legs creating a slight elevation from the shoulder to the lower back.
They are also one of the most intelligent breeds of cats. They are affectionate, playful, sweet, and outgoing cats making them a perfect companion for humans of any age.
Health consequences of a flat faced cat
Health consequences of flat faced cats are due to the genetic trait called brachycephalic that has become standard in the cat-breeding industry.
Namely, you need to understand that taking care of it entails a lot more responsibility compared to adopting non-breed cats.
Never forget that a flat faced cat has a different skull structure that is not typical in its species.
These are caused by dwarfism and malocclusion of teeth called prognathism.
Again, these conditions are attributed to the distortion of the skull.
Here are the most common health problems of brachycephalic cats that you need to watch out for.
Brachycephalic airway syndrome
There's much research regarding brachycephalic airway syndrome in dogs. However, only a few studies are known about cats.
One of the most apparent health issues of flat faced cat is breathing difficulty.
The breathing problem is caused by brachycephalic airway syndrome related to the size of the skull that is shorter than it should be.
This alteration in anatomy causes airway abnormality that leads to breathing difficulty.
A brachycephalic cat has abnormally narrowed nostrils that restrict the amount of airflow intake through the nose.
Cats with flat faces usually breathe more easily through their mouth than their nose.
In less severe cases, a brachycephalic cat may manifest noises in breathing or snoring.
Eye Problems
Brachycephalic cat breeds are also prone to eye conditions resulting in eye infections and excessive tearing.
Due to the abnormal anatomy of the eye, the cornea of a brachycephalic cat becomes more sensitive compared to those cats with natural skull shapes.
This unusual facial structure puts them at risk of chronic eye tearing and improper tear drainage.
Since the eyes are more protruded, the eyelid and eyelashes turn inward instead of outward.
Because of this, the eyelashes can scratch the eyes that can lead to constant irritation. This irritation triggers the tear duct to produce more tears.
Also, again, due to internal blockages caused by the unusual bone structure, the cat manifests excessive tearing.
Not only that, the constant lacerations of your cat’s eyes can lead to inflammation, bacterial infection, and even permanent damage to the cornea.
Conclusion
There’s no denying that flat faced cat breeds are lovable in so many ways.
Taking care of them would mean putting in some extra effort due to several numbers of health issues.
However, having to live with a unique and affectionate pet is a priceless experience that no amount of money can buy.
Plus, you can also choose from many different breeds of flat faced cats that perfectly suits your preference and personality as well.
So get your own flat faced cat, or take a look at other cat breeds that might draw your attention.