Is the short-legged cat a genetic defect?

The short-legged cat is indeed a genetic defect. The very short legs put great pressure on the spine, and the breed is born with a narrow chest that easily leads to various internal organ diseases. The heavy load on the legs also causes leg-bone deformity, and complications appear as the bones age.

But compared with the Scottish Fold defect, the short-leg gene usually shows less obviously. As long as the owner ensures good quality of life, avoids frequent jumping and climbing, and takes the cat for regular vet checkups, its life is not greatly affected.