Health tests
HCM
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), is an inherited and often fatal condition of the heart muscle in cats. In cats with HCM, the heart muscle gradually thickens. Although this may seem harmless at first glance, the increasing thickness of the heart muscle leads to reduced space inside the heart, preventing it from filling properly. As a result, less and less blood is pumped throughout the body, eventually causing serious problems for the cat.
Because HCM is an inherited condition, certain cat breeds must be routinely tested for HCM before they are used for breeding. Breeders must regularly have their breeding cats undergo heart ultrasounds. If a cat tests positive, it should no longer be used for breeding. This approach aims to achieve an HCM-free cat population over time.
PKD
PKD, short for Polycystic Kidney Disease, is an inherited condition found in cats.
Cats with PKD develop multiple cysts (fluid-filled cavities) in both kidneys. As the cat ages, both the number and size of these cysts increase, ranging from a few millimeters to several centimeters. These cysts compress the healthy kidney tissue, leading to decreased kidney function. It can be compared to a balloon slowly inflating, which compresses the surrounding kidney tissue as it expands. Eventually, this results in chronic kidney failure.
PKD is a dangerous disease that often does not become apparent for many years. Therefore, it is crucial to detect this disease at an early stage to prevent breeding with PKD-positive animals. PKD can be tested through DNA or ultrasound.
Without testing, a cat with PKD could have produced several generations before the disease becomes evident. Only one sick parent animal is needed to transmit the disease. It is essential that all cat owners who wish to breed recognize and test for this disease to stop its spread.
FeLV
FeLV, short for Feline Leukemia Virus or Leukosis, is a viral disease that almost always proves fatal. This virus attacks the immune system, rendering cats more susceptible to infections. Additionally, it can lead to leukemia.
How does my cat contract FeLV?
Following infection, the virus travels from the throat to the bone marrow, lymphatic vessels, and lymph nodes, eventually entering the bloodstream. Through saliva, blood, urine, and feces, an infected cat can transmit the virus to others. FeLV primarily spreads through prolonged social contact, such as grooming or sharing food bowls. While transmission can also occur through bites and fights, it is less common. Furthermore, the virus can be passed from mother cat to kitten.
Not all infected cats exhibit symptoms. Those with robust immune systems may overcome the disease, whereas cats with compromised immunity, due to factors like prolonged stress or illness, are more likely to become ill. Additionally, young cats are more susceptible than adults.
The final diagnosis is made through a blood test. This can be tested quite quickly via a snap test.
FIV
FIV, stands for Feline Immunodeficiency Virus. There are many similarities between FIV and FeLV. Both affect the immune system. The virus is related to the human HIV, but is absolutely not contagious to humans.
How does my cat get feline AIDS?
Similar to humans, this virus is transmitted through blood contact. Infection mainly occurs through fighting and biting wounds. It's not surprising that male cats are more commonly infected than females. Mating also often involves biting (neck bite). A pregnant cat can also infect her kittens, so caution is advised in catteries.
The final diagnosis is made through a blood test. This can be tested quite quickly via a snap test.
