Mugua was born in July 2017. She is a folded-ear American Shorthair and the most independent member of the family. She prefers her own company, chooses when affection happens and only occasionally comes close for a cuddle.
Folded ears are more than a visible trait. The associated genetic variant affects cartilage and bone development and may lead to progressive joint problems with age. For Mugua, that makes gait, jumping, willingness to move and joint comfort important to observe over time.
We began noticing whether she still chose her familiar high places, whether walking and landing looked natural, and whether her patterns of rest were changing. Many signs of aging do not announce themselves; they live inside movements repeated every day.
Growing with Mugua helped us understand healthy aging earlier. It is not about pretending time has stopped. It is about seeing change when it appears and supporting pets in continuing to live in the way that feels like their own.
This is one family's lived experience, not medical advice or a product claim. For Dr.GTDs, Mugua is a reminder that science must ultimately return to every step, every jump and the ordinary time a family shares.