A cat has recently gained viral attention on Reddit for its impressive physique. But this isn’t the result of a unique diet or rigorous exercise regimen. Instead, the feline’s extraordinary muscle mass is due to a rare genetic condition known as Myostatin-related muscle hypertrophy.
According to the Reddit user who shared the image, this house cat is affected by Myostatin-related muscle hypertrophy, a condition that causes muscles to grow excessively large. The condition is characterized by a deficiency in the myostatin protein, which normally regulates muscle cell growth. When this protein is absent or mutated, muscle mass accumulates to an extraordinary degree, even without intentional muscle-building activities.
The Reddit community was taken aback by the cat’s impressive build. One user humorously commented, “I bet he purrs like an engine,” while another added, “Like a hellcat.” For those who might be unfamiliar with the reference, a “hellcat” is a powerful car, further emphasizing the cat’s surprising muscularity. Another witty comment read, “Cat gonna cuddle you into submission,” and a third remarked, “This the cat she tells you not to worry about.”
Myostatin-related muscle hypertrophy is caused by mutations in the myostatin gene, which is responsible for regulating muscle growth. This condition is not limited to cats; it can also affect cattle, sheep, dogs, and humans. Individuals or animals with two mutated copies of the myostatin gene—known as homozygous—exhibit extreme muscle growth and are considered anomalies.
Popular Science notes that while inheriting one mutated copy of the gene (heterozygous) leads to increased muscle strength and bulk, it is the homozygous condition that results in such striking physical traits. Unfortunately, this condition can be detrimental to animals, especially those that rely on speed and agility for survival and reproduction.
In summary, this house cat’s astonishing muscle mass is a result of a rare genetic condition that continues to intrigue and fascinate.
Leave a Reply