Health Issues of Large House Cats

Large housecats may experience health problems because their size, whether they are obese or simply members of a particularly large breed. Maine Coon Cats, for example, suffer from increased rates of hip dysplasia compared to smaller cats. Hybrid breeds such as Savannah cats, which are created by crossing a wild cat species with the domestic house cat, may experience breed-specific health problems such as sterility and digestive disorders. Obese cats are at a higher risk of diseases, including diabetes, arthritis, liver disease and more.

  1. Diabetes

    • Obese cats are often diagnosed with diabetes. Diabetes occurs when the pancreas is unable to produce as much insulin as the cat's body requires. This is especially common in overweight cats because of their higher blood glucose level and larger size. Cats with diabetes need special veterinary care for the rest of their lives.

    Liver Disease

    • Hepatitic lipidosis is a form of liver disease that can occur if an overweight cat stops eating for any reason. This loss of liver function may also occur if the cat loses weight rapidly or is highly stressed. This condition is life-threatening and requires immediate veterinary attention to prevent permanent liver damage and death.

    Hip Dysplasia

    • Hip dysplasia can occur in any cat, but it is more common in large breeds such as the Maine Coon Cat. This painful condition involves abnormal development of one or both hip joints. This condition is hereditary, but is not present at birth. Hip dysplasia develops over time and is usually not diagnosable until the cat is an adult. Treatment options depend upon the severity of the condition.

    Irritable Bowel Syndrome

    • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) may occur in hybrid cat breeds created by crossbreeding wild cats with the domestic housecat. This condition can cause diarrhea, gas, vomiting and inability to digest most foods.

    Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

    • Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a heart condition common in Bengal cats and some other breeds. At-risk cats can be tested for this condition with a sonogram, which should be repeated every two years to ensure that the cat has not developed HCM. Like other heart problems, HCM varies greatly in its severity. The condition may be life-threatening or may only require medication and a change in lifestyle.