Longevity
Life expectancy
Its life expectancy is generally between 10 and 12 years. This longevity remains respectable for a scenthound of this size, especially if its weight is well controlled, its activity is regular, and veterinary check-ups are followed over the years.
Build
A robust breed?
The Porcelaine is considered a rather hardy breed. Its athletic build and rustic temperament make it an enduring dog, capable of sustaining effort, provided it lives in good conditions and avoids dietary excesses as well as a sedentary lifestyle.
Watch points
What to watch for
Vigilance mainly concerns the joints, digestion after exertion and ear hygiene. Regular observation after outings in nature is also useful to spot parasites, grass awns, small injuries or irritations that can go unnoticed in a very active dog.
Hip dysplasia : A joint condition to monitor in active or breeding dogs, which can hinder locomotion in the medium or long term.
Gastric torsion : The digestive risk requires avoiding overly large meals and intense exercise just before or after eating.
Otitis : Its drooping ears require regular monitoring in order to limit moisture, irritation, and infections.
Climate
Cold and heat tolerance
The Porcelaine tolerates both cold and heat moderately. Its short coat offers little protection against extreme temperatures, which requires adapting activity in case of high heat or pronounced cold, and always providing it with a comfortable shelter.
Weight
Tendency to gain weight
This active dog more easily maintains good condition if it truly expends its energy every day. It is nevertheless advisable to adjust the rations according to the intensity of the exercise, particularly during the hunting season, in order to avoid both weight gain and insufficient energy intake.
Daily life
Good habits to keep it healthy
- Inspect the ears after outings and clean them if necessary.
- Avoid intense exertion during the hour before and after meals.
- Monitor locomotion and consult promptly in case of persistent lameness.
- Examine the skin, paw pads and ears upon returning from hunting or a walk in nature.
Vaccination
Porcelaine vaccines: vaccination schedule
Which vaccines for a Porcelaine? Like all cats, the Porcelaine receives essential vaccines from 8 weeks old: Typhus (panleukopenia) and Coryza. The kitten primary vaccination for Porcelaine is given in several injections 4 weeks apart, followed by a first booster at 1 year, even if it lives in an apartment. Depending on its lifestyle (outdoor access, multi-cat household, shows, travel), your veterinarian may complete the protocol with vaccines against Feline leukemia (FeLV), Rabies and Chlamydiosis.
| Vaccine | Primary series | First booster | Then | Who for? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Typhus (panleukopenia)Core Feline panleukopenia (cat parvovirus) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All pets |
CoryzaCore Feline herpesvirus and calicivirus | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All pets |
Feline leukemia (FeLV)Lifestyle-based Feline leukemia virus | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Outdoor cats, cats living in a group or in a cattery |
RabiesLifestyle-based Rabies | 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Mandatory for travel abroad, cat shows and most boarding kennels |
ChlamydiosisLifestyle-based Chlamydia felis (contagious conjunctivitis) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Cats living in groups, catteries, show cats |
Adult Porcelaine vaccine boosters are annual for cat flu and leukemia if it goes outdoors; for panleukopenia, a booster every three years is often sufficient after the first booster. Your veterinarian will adjust the schedule to your cat’s lifestyle.
Which boosters for your Porcelaine?
Enter your companion’s age: we list the vaccines to do now and the next boosters.
Adopting well
Adopting a healthy Porcelaine
Orthopedic monitoring focused on the hips may be relevant, particularly in dogs intended for sustained activity or for breeding. Regular ear examinations and assessment of the general condition after working seasons usefully complement prevention.
This information is provided for guidance only and does not replace a veterinarian’s advice. If you have any concerns about your pet’s health, consult a professional.
