Punch face is a term coined in India for the flat-faced Persian. They are also referred to as extreme face persian cats.
The term punch-faced is descriptive of the front-side view of their head which almost resembles a clenched fist. It may also refer to a flat face with chubby cheeks and a short snub nose.
Persian cats are known for their beautiful long fur, but the punched face variety has gained popularity in recent years for their unique look. These cats have short noses and wide-set eyes, giving them a distinct appearance.
While they may not be to everyone’s taste, there is no denying that these cats are definitely distinctive!
If you’re looking for a cat that is sure to turn heads, then a punch-face Persian just might be the perfect choice for you.
Let’s find out more about this awesome breed.
Do All Persian Cats Have Punched Faces?
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No, not all Persian cats have punched (flat) faces. The term ‘punch face’ is actually referring to a specific type of Persian cat that has this facial feature.
While most Persians have flattish faces, there are also ‘traditional’ Persians with more prominent noses and muzzle areas.
So, if you’re looking for a Persian cat, be sure to specify whether you want a ‘punch face’ or a traditional type.
Can Punch-Faced Persians Breathe Normally?
Even though punch-faced Persians have brachycephalism as a result of generations of inbreeding, they can still breathe normally.
While the muzzle is shorter than normal, the airway is not obstructed.
However, because of the shortened muzzle, these cats do tend to snore and have other breathing problems.
In addition, they are more prone to heat stroke since they cannot pant as effectively to cool themselves off.
Why Do Persian Cats Have Squished Faces?
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It all has to do with how they were bred. Persian cats were originally bred in Iran (hence the name), and they were bred to have shorter noses and flatter faces.
This was done for two reasons: first, it made them look more like a lion (which was considered to be a good thing), and second, it made them easier to keep clean.
Their long fur also made it difficult for them to groom themselves, so shorter noses and flatter faces made it easier for them to keep their fur clean.
Over the years, the breed has been refined and the face has become even more squished.
Some people think this is due to inbreeding, but it’s actually just a result of selective breeding.
Breeding Persian cats with shorter noses and flatter faces has become increasingly popular, and as a result, the breed has become more and more extreme in this regard.
Health Issues Of Punched Face Persian Cats
While they may be cute, research suggests that these cats have more health problems than regular cats.
Brachycephalic cats struggle to breathe because their squashed noses obstruct airflow.
Their raised jaws also cause dental issues and tear duct blockages, leading to tear-stained skin, eye problems, and facial dermatitis.
These cats are also prone to overeating and obesity, both of which can exacerbate their health problems.
Persian cats are also known to have shallower orbits than other cats, which causes their eyes to bulge. This can lead to a condition called “cherry eye” where the tear gland prolapses and the tears leak.
While this can be annoying for the cat, it is not painful and can be treated with surgery.
In addition to the health issues, there are also other challenges with this unique breed.
For instance, due to their unique appearance, extreme face Persians require special care when it comes to grooming.
Their long fur can easily become matted and tangled, so regular brushing is a must.
They also tend to drool, so you may want to keep a cloth nearby to wipe their face after they eat or drink.
Are Doll Face Persians Healthier?
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It is generally believed that doll-face Persians are less likely to suffer from certain health problems, such as respiratory issues, due to their shorter noses.
Additionally, because doll-face Persians have shorter coats, they may require less grooming than their long-haired counterparts, which could lead to fewer health problems associated with over-grooming, such as skin infections.
Ultimately, the best way to ensure that your Persian cat is healthy is to work with a reputable breeder and to take good care of your cat by providing regular vet check-ups
Final Thoughts
The punch-faced Persian is a type of cat that has been bred to have a shorter muzzle. The result is a unique cat that will make heads turn.
The downside is that you will have to deal with some health problems that are commonly associated with flat-faced breeds. They may also snore due to their shortened muzzle.
Other than that, they are adorable cats.
Related Post: 8 Snub-Nosed Cats That Are Just So Precious
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Hi! I am Eleanor Price. I started this website after my cat, Louie, almost died from a case of botulism (a type of food poisoning often caused by bacteria that grow on food items). Turned out that my cat’s diet was the problem. I have made it my duty to provide the best information and recommendations about everything cat lovers need to know about their felines’ health and wellbeing. My goal is to find the most informative content on anything feline-related and share it with fellow hardworking kitty lovers.