Campaign by charity focuses on “terrifying” breathing difficulties.

The RSPCA is highlighting the health problems faced by brachycephalic cats this Halloween as part of its Save Our Breath campaign.

The charity is spreading the message that “Every breath can be terrifying” for breeds such as Persians, British shorthairs and Himalayan cats.

Despite the health problems these breeds experience, they are growing more and more popular with pet owners.

The RSPCA saw a 92 per cent increase in Persian cats coming into its care from 2018 to 2022, making them the most common pedigree breed looked after by the charity.

British shorthairs are also becoming more common, with the the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy seeing a 66 per cent increase in registrations over the last 10 years.

Two the Persian cats which have recently come into the care of the RSPCA are Molly and Heathcliff, who are both currently being cared for at RSPCA Gonsal Farm Animal Centre in Shrewsbury.

Molly, who is seven, has a history of eye problems and makes a rasping sound when she breathes. She also finds it difficult to eat. She came into the charity’s care as her previous owner was struggling to look after her.

Heathcliff’s owner was also finding it hard to care for him. The 12-year-old has trouble with eating and needs to have his eyes cleaned daily. Both cats are currently waiting to be rehomed.

Alice Potter, a cat welfare expert at the RSPCA, said: “Unfortunately, Persians and other flat-faced cats have become increasingly popular as people think the physical attributes which in reality cause them to suffer are ‘cute’. While we know many people love these cats and are very caring owners, breeding for features which compromise basic health and welfare is wrong.

“These cats can suffer from eye problems and other issues, and they often struggle to do the most crucial thing we all need to do to survive - breathe. This can be scary and debilitating and in some instances can make eating, climbing, playing, and all the things our cats naturally love to do, a daily struggle.

“We want to see breeders prioritise the health and welfare of the animals and not breed them for traits which sadly can cause them to suffer. We also need to raise awareness of the physical attributes which compromise their welfare to the wider public too.”

The RSPCA is asking members of the public to contact their MP about the issue. A pre-written email has been provided by the charity on its website.

Image (C) RSPCA