Squitten

A cat with the genetic deformity radial hypoplaisia or radial aplaysia while resting, showing twisted forelimbs

A squitten is a cat with a genetic deformity which causes a partial formation or complete absence of the radius bone making it resemble a squirrel. These cats should be kept indoors and seen to by specialist veterinarians, as long term management of the condition is essential for quality of life in these cats.[1] It is an example of a cat body type genetic mutation. The word is a portmanteau of squirrel and kitten.

The term kangaroo cat is also, rarely, used; this derives from a 1953 specimen known as the Stalingrad Kangaroo Cat.[2]

  1. ^ Kangaroo Cats and Squittens Revealed (October 2006)
  2. ^ Robinson Roy (1999), "Genetics for Cat Breeders and Veterinarians", Butterworth Heinemann, ISBN 0-7506-4069-3