A professional veterinarian has sparked a lively debate among animal lovers after sharing the five cat breeds he would never keep as pets. Known as Ben the Vet, he posted his candid opinions on TikTok, drawing from years of experience treating cats and observing the health problems certain breeds endure.
Sphynx Cat
The hairless Sphynx cat is instantly recognisable, but Ben expressed concerns about its lack of whiskers and fur. 'We've removed the essence of being a cat,' he said, noting that whiskers are vital for navigation and communication, while the absence of fur leaves them struggling to keep warm. He also flagged a heightened risk of heart disease and reduced life expectancy.
Munchkin
The Munchkin cat, known for its short legs, was next on his list. Ben warned that the breed can experience mobility difficulties and may develop arthritis at an early age. 'Let's not make life hard for them by giving them short limbs,' he advised.
Scottish Fold
This breed has soared in popularity, partly due to celebrity fans like Taylor Swift. However, Ben cautioned that all Scottish Folds have a genetic disorder that causes painful arthritis at a young age. He noted the surge in popularity is worrying, as many owners either fail to research the breed thoroughly or choose to overlook potential dangers.
Savannah
The Savannah cat, a crossbreed between a domestic cat and a wild serval, was fourth on his list. Ben admitted he was 'quite scared' of them, describing them as larger, more powerful, and far more instinct-driven than average house cats. He warned they can be incredibly challenging to handle in a domestic setting.
Persian Cats
Finally, the Persian cat was mentioned. Ben said he feels 'really sad' for these cats, explaining that their distinctive facial structure can result in breathing difficulties, eye problems, persistent infections, and grooming issues.
While each breed has devoted admirers, Ben's message is clear: health and quality of life must come first when choosing a pet. 'If you want a happy, healthy companion, buying a kitten that looks like this is not a good choice,' he said. The RSPCA's official account commented, 'Well said, Ben. We shouldn't be breeding animals for looks over welfare.' One user added, 'Cannot recommend the rare and exotic domestic shorthair cat enough! 10/10 breed,' while another noted that Sphynx and Scottish Fold cats have been banned in the Netherlands.
