Animal welfare experts are cautioning against the purchase of a new breed of cat, known as "bully cats", which bear a resemblance to the contentious XL bully dogs. This hybrid breed, originating from the US, is a combination of a hairless gene from Sphynx cats and the short-legged gene from Munchkin cats.
However, it's been warned that these cats have a significantly reduced lifespan of just six years and suffer from numerous health issues. Dr Grace Carroll, an animal behaviour specialist at Queen's University Belfast, advised pet owners to be wary when considering buying experimental breeds, stating: "By refusing to buy breeds with extreme traits, we can discourage breeders from prioritising aesthetics over the health and welfare of the animals.", reports the Express.
She further emphasised that we should "let cats be cats" and highlighted that this breed would likely face health complications throughout their shortened lives.
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The breed reportedly has a communication handicap due to lacking whiskers, similar to the sphynx cat, as well as poor spatial awareness and navigation skills. Dr Carroll suggests that the breed's exaggerated features could lead to respiratory issues, while their lack of fur makes them susceptible to skin cancer and sunburn.
She explained: "Kittens already have a limited ability to regulate their body temperature, which is further complicated by hairlessness, making them susceptible to respiratory infections and skin issues."
She also highlighted that since February, owning an XL bully dog in England and Wales without an exemption certificate has been a criminal offence, yet no similar law exists for cats. Animal welfare charities are alarmed by the growing popularity of the breed, largely driven by social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, with bullycats being sold for prices ranging from £200 to £800.
An RSPCA spokesperson earlier this year called on breeders to put the health and welfare of animals before their appearance, saying: "We understand that their emerging presence on social media may fuel a demand for these kinds of cats but we would urge fellow cat lovers to consider adopting the many rescue cats in our care instead of buying from a breeder."
