Bengal Cat Health Problems

Bengal cats captivate with their stunning wild patterns and endearing personalities. These agile felines balance their energetic nature with a gentle and loving disposition. Building strong bonds with their humans, their unwavering loyalty is evident every day. However, just like many other cat breeds, Bengals have specific health issues to which they might be susceptible. Here’s a guide to 14 prevalent health concerns that Bengal cat owners should be informed about.

Most Common Bengal Cat Health Problems

Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Bengal cats are sometimes susceptible to certain health challenges. One such ailment is Progressive Retinal Atrophy, commonly abbreviated as PRA.

PRA is a genetic disorder leading to the deterioration of a Bengal cat’s eyesight. Over time, this can cause a Bengal to gradually lose its vision, with some cats even becoming completely blind. Alarmingly, while some cats exhibit PRA symptoms as kittens, others might not display any signs until their senior years.

Being a hereditary condition, PRA affects both male and female Bengal cats. If you observe any decline in your cat’s vision or notice them struggling with sight-related tasks, it’s crucial to consult your veterinarian without delay. Inform them of your observations so they can conduct the necessary tests and provide the best care.

Dental Disease

Dental health is a vital aspect of a Bengal cat’s overall well-being. Like their feline counterparts, Bengal cats aren’t naturally equipped to maintain their dental hygiene. Consequently, without proper care from their owners, Bengals stand a significant risk of developing dental diseases.

Untreated dental issues can escalate, leading to tooth loss or even organ damage in Bengal cats. To safeguard your feline friend from such complications, regular dental care is essential. Implement routine measures like brushing their teeth and providing dental treats daily. Moreover, an annual professional teeth cleaning is crucial to ensure your Bengal cat’s optimal dental health.

Heart Disease (HCM)

Heart disease is a grave health concern that all cat owners should be vigilant about, and Bengal cat enthusiasts are no exception. Within the spectrum of heart ailments, two primary categories emerge: congenital and adult-onset heart disease.

Congenital heart disease refers to defects present from birth, while adult-onset heart disease primarily affects the heart muscle. The exact origins of the latter remain a subject of study, though factors like diet and lifestyle are believed to influence its onset.

As Bengals age, they become more susceptible to a specific condition known as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Here, the heart muscles unnaturally thicken, forcing the heart to overexert itself. This can pave the way for serious complications like blood clots, thrombosis, and congestive heart failure, which, in severe cases, can be lethal. For Bengal cat owners, staying informed and proactive about heart health is paramount.

Read: HCM in bengal cats

Hip Dysplasia

Though often associated with dogs, hip dysplasia is a concern that can affect certain cat breeds, including the Bengal. This condition arises from irregularities in the hip joints, leading the bones to rub against one another. Over time, this friction causes escalating damage and can result in limping or lameness. When a Bengal cat suffers from hip dysplasia, their hind legs are primarily affected, challenging their ability to walk, sit, or stand comfortably. It’s vital for Bengal cat owners to be aware of this potential issue and monitor their feline friends for any signs of discomfort.

Lymphoma

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals highlights lymphoma as a leading health issue for which Bengal cat owners often seek claims through pet insurance. Lymphoma targets the lymphocytes, which are a type of white blood cell. As a result, this form of cancer can manifest in various parts of the body, encompassing areas like the gastrointestinal tract, lymph nodes, and kidneys. Awareness and early detection can make a significant difference for Bengal cat owners facing this health challenge.

Bilateral Luxating Patella

Bengal cats, while known for their striking appearance and lively nature, can be prone to a condition called luxating patella. This ailment is characterized by the knee cap sliding out of its normal position within the knee joint, potentially leading to arthritis. The causes of luxating patella can be multifaceted, stemming from physical injuries, genetic factors, or as a subsequent issue linked to hip dysplasia. Bengal cat owners should remain vigilant to ensure the best health for their feline companions.

Kidney Disease

Kidney disease frequently surfaces among Bengal cats, making it crucial for owners to monitor for symptoms, especially as their feline companion grows older. Some Bengals inherit abnormal kidneys, leading to early-onset renal failure. However, factors like an inadequate diet and prolonged dehydration often pave the way for kidney disease and, in severe cases, full renal failure. While no definitive cure exists for kidney failure, select veterinary clinics provide transplant services. There are also treatments available that can extend a cat’s life by approximately two years, offering hope and quality time for both cat and owner.

Anesthesia Sensitivity

Bengal cats, while captivating in nature, have a distinct sensitivity to specific anesthetics, notably Ketamine. If your Bengal cat requires a surgical procedure, it’s essential to discuss this with your veterinarian in advance. This proactive approach will enable the vet to choose a suitable, Bengal-friendly anesthetic, ensuring your cat’s safety and well-being during the operation.

Gastrointestinal Disorders

Liver Disease

The liver is an organ that’s frequently impacted by diseases in Bengal cats. When afflicted, a Bengal might exhibit symptoms such as fatigue and weight decline. It’s worth noting that a significant portion (over two-thirds) of a cat’s liver must be compromised to reach a stage of liver failure. This highlights the importance of early detection: if liver disease is diagnosed and addressed promptly, there’s a good chance of recovery for your feline friend.

Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP)

This viral infection targets the gastrointestinal system, often leading to diarrhea, especially in younger kittens with still-developing immune systems. Fortunately, a range of treatment options, including antivirals, immunostimulants, and anti-inflammatory drugs, can effectively combat this virus.

Hypothyroidism

Common among several cat breeds, including Bengals, hypothyroidism typically manifests in a cat’s later years. One potential cause is the presence of a tumor near the thyroid glands. Early detection is key to managing this condition successfully.

Should you spot a noticeable lump in your cat’s neck region or find your feline friend shedding weight despite a nutritious diet, it’s imperative to consult your veterinarian promptly.

Feline Diabetes

Bengal cats, much like their feline counterparts, are at risk of type 2 diabetes, especially as they age. Just as in humans, obesity stands as a primary culprit for diabetes onset in cats. Moreover, steroid treatments, often prescribed for issues like asthma, can inadvertently pave the way for diabetes in our feline friends.