{"id":91653,"date":"2026-01-27T21:26:19","date_gmt":"2026-01-27T21:26:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/cats.com\/?p=91653"},"modified":"2026-01-27T21:26:19","modified_gmt":"2026-01-27T21:26:19","slug":"healthiest-cat-breeds","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/cats.com\/healthiest-cat-breeds","title":{"rendered":"From Bobtails to Ragdolls: The 13 Healthiest Cat Breeds"},"content":{"rendered":"
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We all want our cats to live long, healthy lives so we have as many years with them as possible. Mixed-breed cats tend to have the most genetic diversity and the fewest health problems. But when it comes to purebred cats, some breeds are healthier than others.<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re thinking about adopting a purebred cat but want one without a lot of health issues, consider bringing home one of the healthiest cat breeds.<\/p>\n

Characteristics of Healthy Cat Breeds<\/h2>\n

The healthiest cat breeds tend to be long-lived and have few known genetically linked health issues\u2014or none. Healthy cat breeds usually do not have any physical extremes, such as baldness, dwarfism, or brachycephalic (pushed-in) facial features. Many cat breeds that developed naturally without human involvement are often robust and healthy.<\/p>\n

Such breeds had to fend for themselves and survive in challenging weather or terrain. Due to natural selection, these types of cats are usually hardy and healthy.<\/p>\n

Some breeds have health issues that are linked to their unique physical build. For instance, Sphynx cats are usually healthy, but their bald skin can develop allergies, acne, and skin infections. Scottish Fold cats can be afflicted with osteochondrodysplasia, a genetic disease that affects the development of cartilage and bone (this is related to the gene that causes the Scottish Fold\u2019s unique folded ears).<\/p>\n

Finally, some breeds are known to have certain genetic issues in their background. These can be passed on from generation to generation if careful breeding practices are not followed. Persian cats and Himalayans are prone to kidney disease and progressive retinal atrophy, and their facial build makes them susceptible to breathing problems and tear duct issues.<\/p>\n

13 Healthiest Cat Breeds<\/h2>\n

If you have your heart set on a purebred cat, there are many healthy cat breeds to choose from. Let\u2019s meet the healthiest cat breeds.<\/p>\n

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#1 <\/span>Abyssinian<\/a><\/h2>\n
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