Longevity
Life expectancy
With a life expectancy generally between 12 and 14 years, the Saluki can live a long time if its lifestyle, diet and veterinary follow-up are adapted to its profile as an active and naturally slim sighthound.
Build
A robust breed?
The Saluki is a rather robust dog, with a low tendency to gain weight. Its natural slenderness should not be confused with a lack of body condition, but it requires careful monitoring of physical condition, especially in very athletic or aging individuals.
Watch points
What to watch for
Regular monitoring of the heart, thyroid and general condition is recommended in this breed. It is also important to inform the veterinarian of the Saluki's possible sensitivity to anesthesia before any procedure or medication prescription.
Sensitivity to anesthesia : Some Salukis react more strongly than other dogs to anesthetic protocols and certain medications, which requires well-adapted veterinary care.
Cardiomyopathies and other heart conditions : Heart disorders such as cardiomyopathy, cardiac hypertrophy, or certain valvular diseases may be encountered in some individuals.
Hypothyroidism : A thyroid dysfunction may appear and result in a decrease in fitness, changes in the coat, or variations in body condition.
Certain cancers : The breed may be affected by conditions such as osteosarcoma or hemangiosarcoma, especially with advancing age.
Climate
Cold and heat tolerance
The Saluki tolerates moderate heat fairly well, but its fine coat and low fat coverage make it more sensitive to cold, humidity and prolonged bad weather. In winter, outings must be adapted and rest should take place in a well-sheltered environment.
Weight
Tendency to gain weight
The Saluki is naturally lean and athletic. The goal is not to make it gain weight, but to maintain a slim silhouette with correct musculature. Intake must be adjusted to its actual activity, avoiding both underfeeding and excess treats.
Daily life
Good habits to keep it healthy
- Inform the veterinarian of any possible sensitivity to anesthesia before a procedure.
- Have the heart and thyroid monitored in case of clinical doubt or in older subjects.
- Maintain a stable weight and good musculature without overfeeding.
- Protect the dog from damp cold due to its fine coat.
Vaccination
Saluki vaccines: vaccination schedule
Which vaccines for a Saluki? Like all cats, the Saluki receives essential vaccines from 8 weeks old: Typhus (panleukopenia) and Coryza. The kitten primary vaccination for Saluki 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 Saluki 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 Saluki?
Enter your companion’s age: we list the vaccines to do now and the next boosters.
Adopting well
Adopting a healthy Saluki
Regular clinical monitoring, supplemented depending on the dog’s profile by a cardiac evaluation and a check of thyroid function, provides a prudent basis for this breed. Particular attention is also useful in older subjects or in the event of an unexplained decline in condition.
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.
