Like dogs, pedigree cats bred for distinctive looks often suffer heritable health problems. From flat-faced Persians to folded-eared Scottish Folds, breed selection has welfare consequences.
Cat breeding ethics are less regulated than dog breeding in most countries, yet welfare impacts are equally serious. Scottish Folds in particular are subject to ongoing veterinary debate and have been effectively banned by several veterinary associations. Brachycephalic cats face lifelong respiratory compromise. When selecting a cat, welfare-conscious choices include adopting from shelters, choosing breeds with low disease burdens, or demanding health certificates from breeders. Public awareness remains the most powerful driver of demand-side change.