Cats can sometimes be born with an
appearance that would make people wonder whether or not they have Down
Syndrome. The genetic disorder is known to affect one in 700 human babies born
in the US every year. But can cats have Down Syndrome? This question is a lot
more common than you think. But although felines aren’t exempt from genetic
disorders, Down Syndrome is not something that cats can be officially diagnosed
with.
Cats may suffer from genetic
conditions or other types of diseases that may resemble symptoms of Down
Syndrome in humans. But to say that you have a cat with Down Syndrome wouldn’t
entirely be an accurate statement because the disorder can only occur in
humans, and here’s why: humans and cats simply have different genetic makeup.
What is Down Syndrome?
Down Syndrome occurs when fetal
development is affected by an incorrect duplication of genetic material,
resulting in an extra chromosome 21. Chromosomes in the DNA bundle cells
together and help them pass on genetic material when cells divide during fetal
development. A fully or partially duplicated chromosome 21 results in genetic
abnormalities as observed in patients with Down Syndrome. The National Down
Syndrome Society described some common physical traits of people with the
condition:
• Poor
muscle tone
• Smaller
stature
• Upward-slanting
eyes
• A
deep crease running across the palm
Not all Down Syndrome patients are
the same but these are some of the common physical traits. Mental impairment is
also a common characteristic. Adults with Down Syndrome show an average IQ of
50, which is comparable to that of an eight- or nine-year-old. Overall physical
and mental development is slower to people born with this condition.
Can animals have down syndrome?
The genetic makeup of animals varies by species and differs quite distinctly from
humans. But chromosome disorders are common in animals, as well as hormonal
deficiencies, inbreeding, and other medical illnesses that result in physical
characteristics and neurological problems that people often mistake as Down
Syndrome.
Can Cats Have Down Syndrome?
Whereas humans have 23 pairs of
chromosomes in their DNA, cats only have 19. A duplicate chromosome 21 would
thus be impossible in felines. In the same way, canines have 39 chromosomes
which would also make it hard to diagnose Down Syndrome
in dogs. However, cats and dogs may suffer from conditions with symptoms
similar to Down Syndrome.
At times, cats that display
unusual behavior are thought to have the genetic condition. Cats are known for
their agility and gracefulness. When cats are clumsy or if they walk, meow, or
sit in a different way, they are sometimes “diagnosed” by owners to have Down
Syndrome. Pet owners should know, however, that behavioral deviations don’t
necessarily mean a genetic problem.
Some cats engage in odd behavior
as part of their unique personality. Another possibility for cats acting
strange or showing dysfunctional behavior is that he is suffering from another
health problem or disease. If you’re worried that your cat’s different behavior
might cause him or others harm, it would be a good idea to have him checked by
the vet.
Feline Conditions Similar to Down Syndrome
There are plenty of cat owners
posting on social media about their pets, saying their pet has cat Down
Syndrome. We have confirmed that the genetic disorder only occurs in humans,
and not in felines. It’s understandable why some people would mistake a cat for
having the same condition. Most of the
time, these cat owners notice traits in their pets which may include:
• Flat
or squished-looking face
• Broad
nose
• Small
ears
• Low
muscle tone
• Upturned
or widely spaced eyes
• Motor
dysfunction
• Problems
with walking
• Heart
problems
• Problems
with hearing and vision
• Difficulty
urinating/ defecating
If seen in cats, these traits can
easily be mistaken for cat Down Syndrome. Symptoms, however, could possibly
indicate an infection that occurs in utero, known as panleukopenia virus.
Cerebellar hypoplasia is a neurological condition in cats with similar
symptoms.
A kitten with Down Syndrome
symptoms may have suffered head trauma not long after birth. This could lead to
abnormalities that is similar to the genetic condition, such as permanent
damage to the brain and facial injuries. Symptoms caused by compromised neurological
systems may affect a litter if the mother cat was exposed to toxins while
conceiving.
Can cats have mental retardation?
Inbreeding is also a possible cause of a cat born with genetic disorders. When
two species of the same genetic structure mate, there is always the risk of
producing defective offspring.
Caring for Cats with Special Needs
If you own a cat with behavioral
or physical abnormalities, you know that your pet requires special care. Your
utmost concern would be keeping him safe from hazards at home, as well as the
outdoors. If your cat has impaired motor skills, you need to keep him securely
in a room or a carrier to prevent accidents in the stairs or the pool.
Feeding and grooming can also be
quite a challenge in caring for cats with special needs. You may not exactly
have a Down Syndrome kitten, but if your cat has lost his vision or hearing due
to another condition or disease, he would also require a lot of extra care.
Routine checkups and a healthy diet are absolutely important for cats with special needs. And although cats with a genetic problem isn’t likely to be sexually active, you can take measures to prevent him from mating and passing on the disease to any offspring. Consult your vet and get information about your healthcare options.
Down Syndrome or not, a cat owner
would do everything to take care of a cat with health problems. While the
disorder can only occur in humans, cats can suffer from symptoms similar to
that of Down Syndrome. Loving and caring for your pet isn’t much
different from raising a special needs cat. Accepting and embracing your cat’s
uniqueness is your first step to helping him make the most of his short life.
