A very short cat tail can indeed be a concern, often indicating a genetic defect, skeletal abnormality, or even nutritional deficiencies. It's essential to understand that while some cat breeds naturally have short tails, a significantly shortened tail in other breeds can be a sign of underlying issues.
While variations in tail length exist among cat breeds, a distinctly short tail that isn't typical for the breed is generally considered a defect. This can stem from various causes. Genetic defects can lead to shortened tails, and these genetic issues are present from birth. Skeletal development problems can also affect tail length, so the cat's overall bone structure must be considered. Nutrient deficiencies, particularly during kittenhood, can impact proper bone and tail development, leading to a short tail. Additionally, injuries sustained during the cat's growth phase can cause the tail to not grow properly, resulting in a short tail. In all these scenarios, the short tail could be seen as a form of physical defect or abnormality.
It's also important to note that some kittens may initially have slightly shorter or curled tails, sometimes referred to as a 'pixie' tail. Many cat tails aren't perfectly straight; instead, they have a natural curve, often resembling an 'N' or 'S' shape when relaxed. A 'pixie' or 'kinked' tail often has a noticeable bend or zig-zag shape. If the tail is not completely curled but has a pronounced bend, particularly in the middle, and is not a straight line, this is considered a normal variation within some breeds, not a defect. Therefore, it's important to consider the overall tail shape and not just length when determining if there's an issue. If you are concerned, you should always seek advice from your veterinarian about the cat's well-being.