Longevity
Life expectancy
Its usual life expectancy is between 12 and 15 years. With robust health throughout its life, some individuals can approach twenty years.
Constitution
Is this a robust breed?
The breed is described as robust, but the lack of coat requires careful protection against adverse weather conditions and preventive monitoring of the respiratory tract.
Things to watch for
What to look out for
Particular vigilance is necessary in winter in order to prevent respiratory conditions promoted by exposure to cold. Veterinary follow-up and the usual feline vaccinations must remain up to date.
Pulmonary infections: The breed is predisposed to them, especially in winter, and its exposure to cold should be limited as much as possible.
Climate
Tolerance to cold and heat
Devoid of a protective coat, the Donskoy does not appreciate intense heat or harsh winters. A mainly indoor life makes it possible to better control its exposure to extreme temperatures.
Weight
Prone to weight gain
Its high metabolism linked to thermoregulation does not protect it from becoming overweight if it is too sedentary. Monitor body condition and adjust the ration, especially after sterilization.
Everyday care
Good habits to keep your pet healthy
- Limit exposure to cold as much as possible in winter.
- Keep recommended feline vaccinations up to date.
- Check and clean the eyes and ears every week.
- Maintain the skin regularly and plan a bath about twice a month.
Vaccination
Donskoy vaccinations: schedule
Which vaccines does a Donskoy need? Like all cats, Donskoys should receive their core vaccines from 8 weeks of age: Typhus (panleukopenia) and Coryza. Kittens receive their initial Donskoy vaccinations in several shots spaced 4 weeks apart, followed by a first booster at 1 year, even if they live indoors. Depending on their lifestyle (outdoor access, living with other cats, shows, travel), your veterinarian may add vaccines against Feline leukemia (FeLV), Rabies and Chlamydiosis.
| Vaccine | Primary vaccination | First booster | Then | For whom? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Typhus (panleukopenia)Core Feline panleukopenia (cat parvovirus) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All animals |
CoryzaCore Feline herpesvirus and calicivirus | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All animals |
Feline leukemia (FeLV)Depending on lifestyle Feline leukemia virus | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Outdoor cats, cats living in a group or in a cattery |
RabiesDepending on lifestyle Rabies | 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Mandatory for travel abroad, cat shows and most boarding kennels |
ChlamydiosisDepending on lifestyle Chlamydia felis (contagious conjunctivitis) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Cats living in groups, catteries, show cats |
Adult Donskoy booster shots are given annually for feline herpesvirus and feline leukemia if your cat goes outdoors. For feline panleukopenia, a booster every three years is often enough after the first booster. Your veterinarian will tailor the schedule to your cat's lifestyle.
Which boosters does your Donskoy need?
Enter your companion's age to see which vaccines are due now and when the next boosters are needed.
Choosing well
Adopting a healthy Donskoy
An annual check-up with monitoring of the skin, teeth, weight and breathing is recommended. In breeding cats, cardiac monitoring and a complete clinical examination before mating are relevant.
This information is for guidance only and doesn't replace advice from a veterinarian. If you have any concerns about your pet's health, consult a professional.
