9 Vet-Verified Common Balinese Cat Health Problems

As much as we wish that cats never got ill, the reality is that all cats are at risk for certain health problems, especially those that are more common within the breed due to genetics. In this article, we’ll examine those diseases common to the Balinese cat breed.

Balinese cats are generally healthy, but they can be predisposed to certain health conditions, most common to other cats in the Siamese breed group. Let us take a look at specific conditions that you should be aware of if you’re the proud owner of a Bali or are considering getting one. We’ll start with minor illnesses and then progress to potentially serious health issues.

Important information: Since the Balinese is a relatively young breed, there is still limited evidence-based information available about their specific health concerns. Much of what we know is based on the conditions seen and studied in Siamese cats. Additionally, some of the issues covered in this article are common feline health problems that can affect any cat, regardless of breed, and the Balinese is just as susceptible to these as other cats.

Top 2 Minor Health Conditions for Balinese Cats

1. Crossed Eyes

Crossed eyes, also known as convergent strabismus, is a common finding in the Siamese breed group. If your Bali was born with this condition, there’s no cause for alarm. A telltale sign is if your Bali’s eyes point inward or flicker from side to side, a condition known as nystagmus. Despite the appearance, your Balinese can see just fine with this condition.

2. Kinked Tail

A kinked tail is nothing to be alarmed about, and it is a possible problem in Balinese cats. It is believed that this tail deformity may skip a generation. If not caused by an injury, a kinked tail will be twisted and curved since birth.

Top 7 Balinese Cat Serious Health Conditions

3. Amyloidosis

Amyloidosis is a serious condition that is usually inherited genetically. This condition affects certain organs in the body, primarily the liver and kidneys, and results in deposits of abnormal proteins throughout organs and tissues in the body. The disease can develop between 1 and 5 years of age, and the progression may be slow or aggressive.

4. Dilated Cardiomyopathy

Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a condition in which the heart muscle gets thinner, the heart enlarges, and it results in malfunction, losing its ability to push blood out of the ventricle, resulting in an overload of the heart and ultimately leading to congestive heart failure.

5. Dental Disease

Dental disease can occur in any breed, and it’s a common problem in cats over 3 years old. Dental hygiene plays an important role when you’re a cat owner, and taking specific steps can prevent dental diseases from progressing, such as gingivitis and periodontal disease.

Brushing your Bali’s teeth daily is essential in keeping dental disease at bay. We know that’s easier said than done, but try doing it daily since kitten to get your Bali accustomed to this routine. Remember to never use human toothpaste. Instead, only use toothpaste made for cats.

6. Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is inherited in certain cats from the Siamese group. The disease causes vision loss and usually results in total blindness.

The disease usually starts around 1.5–2 years of age. Night blindness is usually the first symptom, with total blindness following in roughly 2–4 years. Unfortunately, there is no treatment or cure; however, affected cats often adapt well if the environment remains stable.

7. Feline Asthma

Feline asthma is a chronic inflammation of the airways, most commonly caused by allergies as a result of environmental allergens. Siamese cats are prone to asthma, making the Balinese prone as well. Asthma can appear between the ages of 2 and 8, and it causes wheezing, coughing, and laboured breathing.

8. Lymphoma

Lymphoma is a malignant tumor of the lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell. There are various types of lymphoma depending on the location, and the mediastinal type is the most common in the Siamese group.

9. GM1 Gangliosidosis

Gangliosidosis is an inherited condition where the affected cat lacks the enzyme to metabolize certain lipids, which results in fats accumulating within cells in the body. As a result, this condition disrupts normal cellular function. This leads to neurological conditions, such as ataxia, tremors, a high-stepping gait, nystagmus, blindness, and seizures.

Signs can appear during the first months of life, and once signs begin, deterioration is quick. Unfortunately, most cats die within the first year of life.

Conclusion

Please remember that while these are specific health conditions that Balinese cats are prone to, it doesn't mean they will develop any of them. This article is not meant to scare you but to inform you of potential health risks.

Reputable breeders will breed out certain health risk factors, making finding a reputable and responsible breeder a dire part of the process. Never trust a breeder who tries to pressure you into buying a kitten. Also, ask a lot of questions—a qualified breeder will be highly knowledgeable of the breed and will be happy to address your concerns.

See Also:

• Balinese vs Siamese Cats: The Differences (With Pictures)

• 17 Smallest Cat Breeds: Felines That Stay Little (with Pictures)

Featured Image Credit: cornelazar, Pixabay