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Unique survey reveals most common feline illnesses
Dental, oral, dental calculus and gingivitis were the most prevalent disease categories and diseases.  

Study also charts behaviour differences

The most typical health issues in cats have to do with the mouth, skin and kidneys, according to new research.


The study, published in the journal Frontiers in Veterinary Science, identifies almost 60 illnesses specific to particular cat breeds.


Researchers hope the findings can be used to improve feline welfare, develop breeding programmes, and provide a foundation for future genetic research.


"Our research material is unique in its structure and scope, and it highlights important breed-specific genetic illnesses which are ripe for further study," explains first author Katariina Vapalahti.

Cats are the most popular domestic animal in Finland, but little literature on feline illnesses exists and no country-specific health surveys have been conducted until now.

In the study, a team from the University of Helsinki developed a comprehensive health survey covering 227 diseases as well information on cats’ living environment, diet and behaviour.

Using social media to garner data from cat enthusiasts, they were able to chart the prevalence of over 220 illnesses among a population of more than 8,000 cats.

They found that dental, oral, dental calculus and gingivitis were the most prevalent disease categories among all cats and in most breeds.
Other prevalent diseases categories affected various organ systems like the skin, urinary system, digestive tract and eyes.

The study also found behaviour differences between different cat breeds. British Shorthairs, for example, are calmer than many other breeds. Turkish vans and Bengals, however, are more active and aggressive.

Study leader Professor Lohi hopes the findings will provide a solid foundation for future genetic research.


"We discovered nearly 60 breed-specific, or hereditary, diseases, and so far we have only identified the genetic mutation associated with six of them. Our study will help researchers develop a strategy for genetic research and prioritising sample collection,” she says.

All the results by breed, including housecats, are available at http://journal.frontiersin.org/article/10.3389/fvets.2016.00070/full


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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.