Flat Chested Kittens
What does Flat Chested mean?
Flat Chest has to do with the shape of the rib cage and in some cases, the shape of the spine. Instead of the rib cage forming a rounded chest, the ribs flair out to create a flat chest. The spine, in between the shoulder blades, will dip a touch in response to the different shape.
What causes Flat Chest?
Research is inconclusive and a genetic component has NOT been established. There have been many sources attributing blame to different causes. It is heavily suspected that it's a matter of nursing on the chest and growing over time into that shape. This is similar to when human babies develop a skull that is flat at the back due to sleeping only on their backs. Once nursing is done, often times, a flat chest will be outgrown partially or completely over time depending on the severity.
Does a Flat Chest impact the quality of life or health?
In almost all cases, Flat Chested kittens are just as active and live a normal life. More severe cases may require surgery. It is also common for kittens with a Flat Chest to be undersized initially. Over time, as the Flat Chest is outgrown partially or completely, growth spurts can help a kitten catch up to the appropriate size. The biggest consideration is if an upper respiratory infection does occur, which is rare, then additional help may be needed, such as nebulization or oxygen. Which is beneficial for treatment in any kitten really.
Lap Leopard Bengals does discount severe cases of Flat Chest 50% and Moderate to Minor cases 25%.
This is for the aesthetic flaw as well as compensation for the potential of future medical interventions.
Lap Leopard Bengals does discount severe cases of Flat Chest 50% and Moderate to Minor cases 25%.
This is for the aesthetic flaw as well as compensation for the potential of future medical interventions.