I came across a couple of interesting studies recently, revealing some genetic abnormalities in some cat breeds. For example, professionals have found that Korats are prone to asthma, the ragdoll is susceptible to renal disease, and the Burmese, because breeders are trying to breed for a rounder head, is suffering craniofacial deformities
Some other breeds, it seems, inherit disorders specific to the breed. For example, the Scottish fold is prone to disorders in the development of bone and cartilage. The Manx has a tendency toward spina bifida, the Maine coon cat’s weakness is in the muscles. They tend to get spinal muscular atrophy. The Devon Rex, can also develop a muscle disease and the Siamese is prone to many health problems, including respiratory problems. Then there’s the really flat-face (Peke face) Persian, many of whom suffer breathing, sinus, and tear duct issues.
Retinal atrophy can be a problem in some cat breeds, including the Munchkin, Siamese, and Singapura.
The Abyssinian is a relatively healthy cat. The main health issue I found while researching 
healthy breeds is a tendency toward stress. Some Abyssinians engage in excessive grooming—a sort of obsessive-compulsive disorder. The Abyssinian is a very old breed coming from Ethiopia—formerly Abyssinia as early as 1860. This is the fifth most popular breed now in the US.
I found a list of the healthiest cat breeds. Here are a few—the Ragamuffin, American Shorthair, Russian blue, British shorthair and Turkish van.
Most agree that the healthier cat is the cat with varied heritage. Is that what you’ve found to be true in your experience with cats?
