Caring for your Kinkalow cat

Quick answer

The Kinkalow is a unique and spirited companion known for its playful and affectionate nature. While these cats are highly social and curious, they are prone to specific health conditions including ear infections, spinal curvature, chest wall abnormalities, joint discomfort, and weight management challenges. By maintaining a lean body condition and monitoring for early signs of physical distress, you can ensure your cat leads a happy and active life.

Ear infections

Ear infections are a recognised tendency in the breed. As an owner, you might first notice your cat shaking its head frequently, scratching at the ears, or holding one ear at an unusual angle. You may also detect an unpleasant odor or see discharge within the ear canal. When you bring your cat to the clinic, the veterinarian will use an otoscope to look deep into the canal to check for inflammation, debris, or a ruptured eardrum. A swab of the material inside the ear is often analyzed under a microscope to determine if the infection is caused by bacteria, yeast, or mites. The most common mistake owners make is attempting to clean the ears with cotton swabs, which can push debris deeper into the canal or damage the delicate structures. Always follow your vet's guidance on appropriate cleaning solutions and medication application.

Lordosis

Lordosis is a condition involving an abnormal inward curvature of the spine, and this is a recognised tendency in the breed. You may notice this as a visible dip or sway in the cat's back that seems out of proportion to their movement. In some cases, it may not be immediately obvious until the cat is in motion or being groomed. A veterinarian will perform a physical palpation of the spine to assess the severity of the curve and may recommend X-rays to visualize the alignment of the vertebrae. While some cats live comfortably with mild curvature, others may experience discomfort or mobility issues. Urgency is determined by any sudden change in the cat's gait, reluctance to jump, or signs of pain when their back is touched.

Pectus excavatum

This condition, which causes a concave or sunken appearance of the chest wall, is a recognised tendency in the breed. At home, you might notice your cat breathing more heavily than normal, especially after play, or showing a lack of stamina compared to other cats. A veterinarian will perform a physical examination of the chest and listen to the heart and lungs to ensure they are not being compressed by the inward-growing bone structure. Radiographs are the standard test to confirm the extent of the deformity and its impact on internal organs. If the chest wall significantly interferes with heart or lung function, this requires prompt veterinary attention. Do not ignore persistent panting or exercise intolerance, as these are critical warning signs.

Joint issues

Joint issues are a recognised tendency in the breed. You might notice your cat moving more slowly, hesitating before jumping onto furniture, or showing stiffness after waking from a nap. The veterinarian will conduct a orthopedic examination, moving each limb to check for range of motion and signs of pain. X-rays are often used to identify inflammation or structural changes within the joints. To manage this, ensure your home has good traction on floors to prevent slipping, which puts extra stress on the joints. Avoid the mistake of assuming a cat is just 'getting older' if they become less active; early intervention with weight management and environmental support can significantly improve their quality of life.

Obesity

Maintaining a lean body condition is critical for this breed, as they are prone to obesity. You should be able to feel your cat's ribs easily without a thick layer of fat covering them. If you cannot feel the ribs or if the cat has lost its 'waist' when viewed from above, they are likely carrying too much weight. Obesity exacerbates every other condition listed here, particularly joint issues and respiratory strain. The best approach is to measure food portions strictly and limit high-calorie treats. Engage your cat in short, consistent play sessions to keep them moving. A common mistake is free-feeding, which makes it difficult to track exactly how much your cat is consuming throughout the day.