Meet The Super-Ripped Sphynx Cat Taking The Internet By Storm

A photo of a super-ripped cat is causing a stir online, with the feline's impressive physique thought to be due to a rare condition. The internet was set ablaze when a Reddit user, bsmith2123, shared a striking image of a hairless cat, commonly known as a Sphynx cat, in the forum titled "Damn That’s Interesting." This particular cat has gained attention not just for its lack of fur but for its extraordinary muscle definition, making it look like a miniature bodybuilder.

What makes this cat even more fascinating is the condition it has been diagnosed with: Myostatin-related muscle hypertrophy. This rare condition leads to excessive muscle growth, making the feline's physique stand out even more among its peers. With over 53,000 upvotes since its Thursday post, the image of this muscular cat has captivated many, with viewers eager to learn more about this unique creature.

The photo depicts a grey Sphynx cat lounging comfortably, with its paw extended and a view of its bulging biceps on full display. The cat's anatomy is accentuated by its lack of fur, allowing observers to appreciate its well-defined shoulders and thick torso. Many comments under the post reflect amusement and admiration for the cat's remarkable appearance, with users jokingly noting that its arms are larger than theirs!

The outstretched limb of the cat in the photo showcases its impressive muscle structure. As the online community responded with humor and fascination, comments like "Poor bro's arms are bigger than mine!" and "He opens the pickle jar for me," highlight the playful nature of the conversation surrounding this viral sensation. It serves as a reminder of how pets can captivate our hearts and spark joy through unexpected attributes.

Explaining more about the condition, the National Organization for Rare Disorders states that Myostatin-related muscle hypertrophy is characterized by a reduction in body fat and an increase in muscle size. Affected individuals can have up to twice the usual amount of muscle mass, along with greater muscle strength. Interestingly, this condition is not known to cause any medical issues, and those affected typically lead normal lives, both intellectually and physically.

As scientists continue to explore the genetic mutations causing this condition, there are documented cases in other animals, such as dogs. This phenomenon showcases the fascinating interconnectedness of genetics across species, revealing that such muscular traits can be observed in various animals, not just the beloved Sphynx cat.

In summary, this super-ripped Sphynx cat has not only taken the internet by storm but has also opened discussions about genetics, pet care, and the unique traits that make our animal companions so special. The playful reactions from users highlight the joy that pets bring into our lives, often in unexpected ways.

Update 12/3/21, 4:58 a.m. ET: This article was updated with an additional Reddit post.