Domestic long hair cats are cat royalty. With their flowing manes, regal look, and sleek lines, it is little wonder as to why the breed is the second most popular cat in the United States. However, since this kitty is an amalgamation of several breeds, it is susceptible to a range of health concerns that can prove pocket-heavy unless you have domestic long hair cat insurance.
How long do domestic long hair cats live can depend on your choice of insurance.
What Are Domestic Long Hair Cats?
Also known as 'moggies,' domestic long hair ((DLH) cats are characterized by fur of varying lengths (usually on the longer side) and a range of coat patterns. While they cannot be called purebred, the breed shares a common trait as per their namesake – long and luxurious coats.
However, due to their mixed ancestry, the domestic long-haired cat is also prone to complex and serious health concerns that can lead to costly vet bills.
Common Health Concerns of Domestic Longhair Cats
Some of the common health concerns that your DLH cat may be susceptible to include the following:
Matting and Skin Issues
If you don't brush your hair daily, it can get seriously tangled, and the matts can eventually lead to scalp issues. The same is the case with a domestic long hair cat. Even with regular brushing and grooming, the long fur can accumulate dander and knots, leading to eczema, fungal infection, hot spots, and other serious skin issues.
There are several reasons why this happens. When cats shed their undercoat, it can get caught in the first coat, leading to painful matting. Similarly, long fur gets oily fast and can attract dust, which can lead to skin issues. Since cats are deathly scared of water, chances are you don't bathe your long-haired cat for a couple of months.
With cat insurance, you can focus all of your attention on healing your cat rather than on medical costs.
Dental Health Concerns
Whether they are on dry or wet cat food, long hair cat breeds are susceptible to feline dental issues that can lead to costly vet bills. These include:
Gingivitis
Gums and teeth become inflamed due to plaque buildup. If it isn't removed regularly, it can infiltrate the roots right down to your cat's immune system. Feline leukemia, kidney issues, and autoimmune disease can also cause gingivitis. Treatment can include an antibiotics course and, in severe cases, extraction.
Periodontitis
Uncontrolled gingivitis can lead to periodontitis. In this case, the condition worsens to the point that it weakens bone and gums due to the bacteria, leading to loose teeth or tooth loss.
Tooth Resorption
The structure of the teeth breaks down and spreads to the whole jaw, leading to massive tooth loss. The condition is quite painful and may prevent your domestic long-haired cat from eating, leading to malnourishment and other health conditions.
All of these dental concerns are fixable as long as your cat gets timely medical aid. With the right cat insurance, you can ensure your beloved pet gets it before it is too late.
Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism is common in domestic long hair cats that are either middle-aged or in their senior years. It is caused by an abundance of thyroid hormones from an inflamed thyroid, which is often the result of a tumor. The hormones affect almost all organs, which can cause secondary issues.
The condition is subtle and can progress fast if it is not addressed timely. Some of the common symptoms you should look out for in your cat are weight loss, increased bouts of urination, or a voracious appetite. In some cases, hyperthyroidism can also cause nausea, hyperactivity, and vomiting.
In severe cases, it can make your cat's fur matted or greasy, leading to skin issues. With the right cat insurance, you can relax knowing your fur baby will get the best treatment possible.
Diabetes Mellitus
Diabetes mellitus is a pancreatic disease, and it is characterized by the failure of this organ to produce sufficient insulin to regulate a cat's blood sugar levels. This can lead to excess blood glucose levels and prevent your long hair cat from using glucose as a source of energy.
The results can range from rapid weight loss to an increase in appetite and a thirst that refuses to be quenched. The condition is subtle and may go under the radar if you aren't vigilant and can get serious without timely treatment.
Diabetes mellitus is common in any middle-aged and older domestic long-haired cat, and females are more susceptible to it than males. If your fur baby is overweight, she is a prime candidate for this serious and often deadly condition.
Obesity
Mostly, indoor DLH cats can get obese since they aren't as active as outdoor cats. The excess weight can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease and the diabetes mentioned above, not to mention mental health issues. Routine wellness visits can help you nip the issue in the bud and avoid costly vet bills.
With the right cat insurance, you can ensure you can do this without going over budget. The vet will measure your pet's weight during each visit to ensure they are not headed towards obesity. Keep in mind that each breed is different, so even if your domestic long hair cat may look healthy, they may be overweight.
All of the aforementioned medical concerns are avoidable with regular vet visits and treatments. Plus, the consultations won’t cost you an arm and a leg with the right cat insurance. It’s the least you can do to ensure your domestic long hair cat lives a happy and healthy life for years.
The Final Word
Owning DLH cats is rewarding, but they come with several health concerns that can be costly to treat without timely medical intervention. The last thing you need is to pay high vet bills when you are worried sick about your domestic long hair cat’s health. Get affordable options from PawDarling pet insurance. Invest in the insurance and ensure your fur baby lives to a ripe old age.
