I got a kitten maybe 8-10 months ago (can't remember..) from a family who's young son was quite careless (violent). Even when I went to pick him up I saw the child pick the kitten up by it's neck and although he was choking it, the kitten was calm. It's wonderful that my kitten is such an easy-going little guy (except when he's playing lol he get's pretty rambunctious) but he can't meow! If he makes any noise, it's a little squeak. Once in a great while when he really wants something he'll make a louder and longer high-pitched squeaky mew. I'm wondering, it it possible that child caused his vocal chords damage by practically strangling the poor thing constantly? I don't think he's any "special" breed (to explain the voice).