Feline Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

 

Feline Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) is the most common heart disease in cats. Again, it can appear in any breed, be it pedigree or non pedigree of cat. It is a very frustrating disease as early symptoms can be non-existent, sometimes the only indications of a problem is the sudden death of an otherwise healthy pet.

It is very important that screening is only carried out by a board certified cardiologist using the colour doppler test. These screenings should be carried out at regular intervals throughout the cats life as HCM can sometimes develop later in life. When anyone claims to be HCM free, negative or clear, this is only as good as the last screening. See, what I mean about frustrating!

Maine Coon cats as a breed are actually very fortunate to have been involved in the early clinical studies/trials. It has meant that this breed are the first to receive a genetic DNA test for HCM. The test became available in early 2006 and easily identifys the MYBPC mutation in Maine Coons. Unfortunately we cannot become complacent about this terrible disease as it is possible that there may be other genes responsible which haven't yet been isolated. Many breeders will continue with the colour doppler screening method alongside the DNA test.

Funding is desperately needed to maintain the research into HCM. With continued funding then DNA testing will hopefully be available for all other breeds of cats. There is always something to spend our money on, but I urge anyone who is reading this to please contribute, no matter the sum.

You can donate money at either of the following two links:
Through MCBFA by clicking here
OR
through the Ricky Fund at Winn Feline Foundation by clicking here

I have also pledged to send $25 for each kitten sold towards these funds.

Please help where you can, every little helps!