Foreshortened Tail - A tail which is abnormally short, ending abruptly. Rib cage should either be rounded or oval in cross-section. There should be a very gentle outward curve, running almost unnoticeable into the softer contour of the abdomen, with no protrusion or dip at the rear end of the sternum. It is also considered abnormal for the ribs to flare outward. In an adult cat only very slight movement should be possible.
Recurrent luxation can cause lameness.
Hip Dysplasia - Abnormal development of the hip joint affecting the close fit of the femur to the pelvis. Seen in larger breeds, it is an inherited disorder and diagnosed by x-ray. Painful, it affects gait and back leg mobility. Splayed Toes - Toes spread too far apart. Polydactyly - abnormal number of toes.