Experts Call for Responsible Animal Breeding Practices Over Creating New Breeds for Appearance

Animal experts are calling for responsible breeding practices to be prioritized over creating new breeds solely for their adorable appearances. Veterinarian Dr Devan Sivanasan emphasized the importance of understanding genetics and producing healthy animals through cross-breeding while minimizing the risks of inherited health issues.

Dr Devan’s comments come in response to a TikTok video showcasing cats cross-bred from Munchkin and Bengal breeds, which has sparked concern among animal lovers regarding the welfare of the felines involved. He highlighted the need for breeders to commit to preserving the integrity of the breed and ensure responsible breeding practices are followed.

Each breed comes with its own set of health issues, and Dr Devan pointed out that Munchkin cats, known for their short legs, can also face bone and joint problems. Paws Animal Welfare Society public relations officer Jonathan Yeoh echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the unethical nature of breeding animals solely for cuteness and profit without considering their well-being.

Yeoh highlighted the potential deformities and health issues associated with certain cat breeds and stressed the importance of carefully selecting mating partners to establish a purebred lineage. He also called for government authorities to regulate breeding practices and raise awareness about the risks associated with certain breeds.

Encouraging the public to adopt animals from shelters rather than buying from breeders, Yeoh emphasized the need to prioritize animal welfare over aesthetic preferences or profit motives. By reducing the demand for specific breeds, overbreeding and potential exploitation of animals can be minimized.