Domestic Shorthair (Tong Mao) health guide
Also known as: Tong Mao, Mixed Breed Cat, House Cat, Moggie
About this breed
The Tong Mao, Macau's local domestic shorthair, benefits from broad genetics and is generally the healthiest cat we see. Its risks are lifestyle ones: urinary disease in indoor males, weight gain, dental disease and the silent kidney and thyroid changes of age.
Living in Macau's climate
Local shorthairs are well adapted to Macau's climate, needing only weekly brushing and cool retreats in summer. For cats with balcony or street access, year-round flea, tick and heartworm prevention matters in this subtropical mosquito climate.
Common health conditions
Feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD)
Signs: Straining, frequent trips to the tray, blood in urine, crying, or licking underneath.
Prevention: Wet food, water fountains, enough clean litter trays and stress reduction; a male cat that cannot urinate is a life-threatening emergency.
Obesity
Signs: Belly pouch, ribs hard to feel and less jumping.
Prevention: Measured meals, food puzzles and daily play; indoor Macau cats burn few calories.
Dental disease
Signs: Bad breath, red gums, drooling or dropping food.
Prevention: Brushing where tolerated and dental checks every year from age 3.
Senior kidney and thyroid disease
Signs: More thirst, weight loss despite eating, restlessness or vomiting from age 10.
Prevention: Yearly blood and urine screening from age 7 catches both years early.
Daily care tips
- Feed wet food daily and run a water fountain for urinary health.
- Provide one litter tray per cat plus one, cleaned daily.
- Play hunting games daily to keep indoor weight down.
- Screen blood and urine yearly from age 7, even if your cat looks perfect.
Screening schedule
On adoption
Full exam, vaccination catch-up, parasite treatment and FIV/FeLV testing.
1 to 6 years
Annual exam with weight, dental and urinary history review.
7 years and up
Twice-yearly senior checks with kidney and thyroid blood work and blood pressure.
Book a breed-savvy check-up
Our vets see Domestic Shorthair (Tong Mao) patients every week and know exactly what to screen for. Call +853 6677 6611 or book online.
Book a check-upRelated breeds
This guide is general information for the breed as a whole and does not replace an examination of your individual pet. When in doubt, always call the clinic.
Reviewed by the Royal Veterinary Center veterinary team.