Cat enthusiasts are cautioned against acquiring newly developed"bullycats,"a hybrid breed mirroring the contentious XL bully dogs.This feline variant was developed by US breeders combining the hairless gene from Sphynx cats with the short-legged trait of Munchkin cats.

Animal welfare specialists,however,flag significant health concerns,predicting these cats may survive only six years on average—far below typical feline lifespans.Dr.Grace Carroll,animal behavior expert at Queen’s University Belfast,urged prospective owners to weigh ethical implications:"Consumers wield purchasing influence.By rejecting breeds with extreme features,we deter breeders from valuing aesthetics over animal welfare."She advocated ethical practices enabling natural behaviors like climbing,sun-basking,and jumping.

Despite warnings,bullycats gain social media traction,with breeders claiming health testing and full functionality.Dr.Carroll counters that hairlessness elevates risks:sunburn,skin cancer,and impaired thermoregulation exacerbating respiratory and dermatological issues—especially critical for temperature-sensitive kittens.

Notably,while England and Wales criminalize unlicensed XL bully ownership since February,no specific laws regulate cat breeding.NatureWatch Foundation highlights this"disturbing"Instagram/TikTok trend,with a spokesperson condemning:"Appalling to witness these compromised felines emerging in the UK.Such breeding is sheer cruelty."

An RSPCA spokesperson earlier urged prioritizing health over appearance:"We recognize social media may spur demand,but implore cat lovers to adopt rescue felines rather than support breeders."