Cat Mental Birth Disorders . Downs? Autism?
One of our male (neutered) cats can be physically described as thick-set, weight dense (as in he is not a big cat, small & compact with heavy bones... picking him up is not unlike a 1'x2' brick), LARGE head with large round eyes, big belly (not fat, just big... body solid muscle) with a cow coloring (black and white intermix at edges). OVERLY loving, very demanding (sometimes I almost feel as if I am being 'courted') and behaves at times like he has a 'one-track' mind. He will purposely place himself where you either break your leg trying to avoid him or step on him; step on him and he doesn't bat an eyelash.
Until yesterday, I wondered if he wasn't wire quite right upstairs. Yesterday I was waiting for the group of 'special needs' group that do daily walks to finish crossing the street and one young man (obvious Downs) caught my attention. He was dressed in Cow patterned BDU's with a hood (115 outside and the kid is covered in cow-canvas head to toe, go figure)...
Anyway, I was suddenly struck with the realization that, had this young man been on all fours, he would be Jax... and if Jax walked upright, he would be this young man (in fact, upon returning home I held his front paws and had him 'stand'... identical).
After reviewing what I know of Downs & Autism (I have spent many hours volunteering as an aid to Special Needs persons), Jax suddenly makes perfect sense! :D
I have searched and found little regarding the possibility of cats being born with Downs, or Autism, etc. My vet hems & hums and says she doesn't believe so but leaves the room thinking...
Any input that will help me? Also, if these are a possible answer, what should I expect?
THANK YOU!!