Disorder - Dwarfism

Organ Systems Involved
Musculoskeletal

Alternative disorders described within LIDA

Achondroplastic dwarfism; Osteochondrodysplasia; Hypochondroplasia; Hypothyroidism; Pituitary dwarfism; Hyposomatotropism; Growth Hormone deficiency; Panhypopituitarism; Mucopolysaccaridosis – type I and VI; Acromesomelic dysplasia

Alternative Names
Cretinism; Miniaturisation; Midgetism

Presenting Signs

Cats affected by dwarfism are smaller than other cats of the same age, and have altered proportions. Dwarfism can be caused by many different conditions including inherited abnormalities of bone and cartilage, and metabolic, enzyme or hormonal disorders. Affected cats can present with abnormally shortened limbs, usually with a normal length body. Limbs are usually deformed and have abnormal movement of joints. The spine may be abnormal, for example the bones may be smaller or fused, and the space between the discs may be collapsed. Facial development is abnormal; there may be an enlarged head, broad jaw and misshapen muzzle. Dwarf cats can often have narrowed and/or flattened chests that affect their breathing. These cats can present with mental retardation and neurological abnormalities depending on the extent of their dwarfism. Hormonal dwarfs may retain a kitten-like coat with few of the stiff guard hairs. These kittens may grow slowly and never reach adult size. Dwarf characteristics in cats may be considered a desirable trait and can be seen in certain breed characteristics.

Breeds Affected
Abyssinian
European Shorthair
Munchkin
Scottish Fold (SH & LH)
Siamese


Treatment

None. The treatment is based on alleviating clinical signs dependent on the cause of dwarfism. If hormonally induced, cats can be medically managed with hormonal supplementation. Cats which have abnormalities in skeletal growth and development can range from mild changes to crippling limb abnormalities. There is no medical or surgical management for those severely affected.

PubMed References
Dwarfism

Contributor
Sunishka de Silva