Teacup Cats : Cuteness Brings Consequences

Teacup cats (also known as dwarf cats) began popping up in the United States about 30 years ago and are bred to be as small as possible. The smallest of two breeds are mated progressively in each generation and with each mating, a miniature cat is born, purely for physical attributes. This small version of a typical cat, with shorter legs, does not weigh more than 4.5 kg when fully grown. 

Teacup kittens come in a variety of breeds. The most popular teacup breeds are the combination of Persian and Exotics. The newest addition of the teacup breed is the Napoleon, with long coats and big eyes, and were inbred by mating a Munchkin with a Persian cat.  

Teacup cats are not only cute and adorable, they are easy to carry around and typical lap cats, but like all other cats, they too grow up and lose their kitten ways.  Interbreeding or selective breeding that goes into creating such small cats could lead to health issues and disorders for the pet and heartaches for the pet parent.   

Teacup Persians are more likely to suffer from chronic respiratory issues, eye and nose infections, jaw issues that affect their ability to properly chew food and kidney disease. Any cat bred to be teacup-size is unable to regulate their body temperature as well as a regular-size cat, and more likely to suffer from dental and oral diseases, heart disease, neurological abnormalities, eye issues, shorter lifespans and their smaller bones and joints make them more susceptible to arthritis and injury.

Although teacup cats are great for the elderly, for people with small apartments and families with children, however next level cuteness means next level care and extra attention!  Due to their tiny size, they must be treated gently and regular trips to your veterinarian will ensure that your teacup cat is as healthy as possible.