My young cat's joints crack. Could it be a breed-specific issue?

Question

Basically I can hear my cat's joint crack every now and then. She is still so young so I got worried and went to the vet but they said there is nothing unusual but they really can't say much because she is still growing. So I have to wait for 6 more months until they can help. Mimi (cat) used to be very very lazy but recently, and after the vet appointment, she got soooo much more active. We play so much now but I'm still worried that her joints will get worse? Pet's info: Cat | Scottish Fold | Female | spayed | 1 year and 8 months old

Linda G, MS, DVM · Accepted Answer

Hello. I assume you are concerned about Scottish Fold Osterchondrodysplasia. This is a progressive musculoskeletal condition in pure & some cross bred Scottish Fold kitties. The condition can manifest as young as 2 months, so I wonder why your veterinarian is hesitant to take x-rays in an adult cat like Mimi ( you indicate she is 20 months of age ). Most affected cats will have a thick, short, inflexible tail, & shortened paws. If your veterinarian does not feel comfortable doing x-rays, I would request the DNA test to see if she has the Scottish Fold mutation gene. The test is a simple cheek swab & is run through the UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory. Once you have the results, then a good treatment plan, if one is needed, can be started. Thanks for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

My young cat's joints crack. Could it be a breed-specific issue?

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