Somali Cat Health Problems

The Somali is a popular breed of cat known for its fox-like bushy tail and face markings. While generally healthy, the Somali is prone to certain genetic problems. Reputable breeders are careful about the pairs that they mate in an attempt to ensure that the offspring will not suffer from genetic health problems, but they are not always successful.

  1. Renal Amyloidosis

    • The hereditary form of renal amyloidosis (RA) usually strikes Somalis when they are young. Proteins that cannot be broken down or processed by the kidneys build up and cause the kidneys to function improperly. The liver and other organs can also be affected. Symptoms include vomiting; increased thirst and urination; swelling of the face, limbs or abdomen (due to fluid buildup); and diarrhea. RA is progressive and incurable. Once a veterinarian has diagnosed it, the treatment will focus on decreasing the symptoms and making the cat more comfortable. How long the cat lives with treatment varies from months to years.

    Immune Mediated Hemolytic Anemia (IMHA)

    • This condition used to be known as Auto Immune Hemolytic Anemia (AIHA). In a cat with IMHA, the immune system begins to attack and destroy healthy red blood cells. This causes anemia and stresses the ability of the spleen and liver to process the extra red blood cells. The spleen enlarges, and the liver puts out an excessive amount of bilirubin (a yellow-colored substance). The bilirubin causes jaundice, causing the cat to have a yellow tinge to his skin and gums. He may also have dark-colored urine and seem listless. Blood transfusions and steroids for immune suppression are used for treatment of IMHA. As a last resort, the spleen may be surgically removed. There is a chance of survival, but only after successful aggressive and intensive treatment.

    Myelodysplasia

    • According to the Somali Breeders and Fancier's Association, this disease has only been recently recognized in Somalis. It is a bone marrow disease that affects blood cell production. Cats with this condition are anemic and will have low energy. Transfusions and steroids can help with the problem, and some cats will survive; however, if it is allowed to progress, it can lead to leukemia. (Cats diagnosed first with feline leukemia are sometimes found to have myelodysplasia.)

    Lymphocytic-Plasmacytic Gingivitis Stomatitis (LPGS)

    • Compared to the other three conditions, LPGS seems like a much milder problem. However, it is a very serious dental disease that requires veterinary treatment. Basically, it is an allergy to the plaque on teeth that causes the gums to swell and become tender. Your Somali may refuse to eat because of the discomfort, or might only accept soft food. His breath will be very bad, and he may drool excessively. A thorough teeth cleaning under anesthesia will be necessary and extraction of any diseased teeth. Afterward, your veterinarian will probably prescribe a course of antibiotics and possibly corticosteroids. The condition itself is not life threatening; however, any procedures involving anesthesia involve some risk to the cat. Even though he is genetically prone to it, regularly brushing your cat's teeth (using special cat toothpaste) can help him avoid this disease.