Mysterious winged cat baffles animal experts


by: Kris Mullin
26 May 2009
The London Paper


LINK & PICS



ANIMAL experts have been pussy-footing over the explanation for a cat that has developed bat-like wings on either side of its back.

The long-haired white feline was born a normal kitten, but started to develop furry wing-like appendages on either side of its back when it was just a year old.

Scientists believe the growths may be the result of a genetic mutation caused by chemicals during its mother's pregnancy. Alternatively, the cat which was discovered in Chongqing, China, may be a freak that developed from two embryos.

However, the puss does not seem to be bothered by its wings, and it was quick enough to swoop on any cat biscuits dished up.

Chongqing is known as one of China's hottest cities and, following the discovery of this cat, the air there is certainly getting a bit moggy.[/QUOTE]

Overly matted cat hair =wings
winged-cats facts
Long haired cats generally need extra grooming ..especially those who don't groom themselves enough... this is why you don't see short haired "winged" cats.

My parents had a very difficult , even to pet, semi-feral cat. Was all matted. When he went to live with my brother he had a trip to the vet first for shots & to remove mats ..some winglike! The vet was able to remove them without surgery.. however I can't help but think they were painful for that cat.. all that matted hair ..like a stiff piece of felt. That cat is now grooming himself more..and no mats ..but he is still impossible to brush ..so should they develop again..its back to the vet to be de-winged!

If you get a long haired kitten...get him used to brushing & avoid kitty wings ;)