Morphological and Morphometric Craniofacial Variations in Persian Cats: Anatomical Basis for Brachycephalic-Related Disorders

Selective breeding in Persian cats has led to extreme brachycephalic features, often associated with clinically relevant disorders. However, comprehensive anatomical studies evaluating the skull as a whole remain limited. The present study aimed to perform a morphological and morphometric comparison of the skull in Persian and Domestic Shorthair cats. Fifteen adult feline skulls, including 10 Persian and 5 Domestic Shorthair specimens, were obtained through anatomical preparation procedures and analyzed through detailed morphological observation and morphometric measurements. The results revealed consistent and marked differences between the two groups. Persian cats exhibited a rounded skull with a pronounced reduction in the facial region and frequent deviations of the craniofacial axis. Prognathism and malocclusion were observed in the majority of Persian specimens, often presenting as a reverse scissor bite. In addition, the nasal bone aperture was frequently displaced dorsally, suggesting an alteration of the anatomical relationships within the nasal region. These findings provide anatomical evidence supporting the predisposition of Persian cats to respiratory, dental, and ocular disorders and highlight the structural consequences of selective breeding on craniofacial morphology.