Genetics and Health: Part 2 — Understanding DNA Tests

One of the most important subjects in working with purebred cats — and in protecting the breeder — is a clear understanding of genetic testing and inherited conditions.In this section, we’ll explain how DNA panels work, what their limitations are, and what a responsible breeder should always pay attention to.

How Genetic Panels Work

A genetic test is typically performed using a cheek swab (saliva or epithelial cells).The sample is sent to the laboratory, where it is analyzed for known mutations associated with hereditary diseases.

Each cat breed has certain genetic conditions that are more common within that breed.For Maine Coons, the three primary inherited risks are:

1. HCM (Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy) — hereditary heart disease

2. SMA (Spinal Muscular Atrophy)

3. PKDef (Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency) — hereditary form of anemia

Where These Tests Are Done

In the United States, the two major companies providing genetic panels for cats are:

• Wisdom Panel• Optimal Selection by Wisdom Health

These panels include approximately 49–50 tests, depending on the version.The owner collects the cheek swab, mails it in, and receives a detailed report in about two weeks.

The report shows one of the following results for each mutation:

• Clear — mutation not present• Carrier — one copy of the gene is present, but the cat will not develop the disease• At Risk — possible only if both parents carry the same mutation

What “Carrier” Really Means

Many people panic when they see the word carrier.But a carrier is not a sick animal.

A carrier simply has one mutated gene inherited from one parent. Such a cat:

• will not develop the disease• lives a completely normal life• can be safely bred if the other parent is Clear

Example:If the father is a Carrier for HCM and the mother is Clear, then all kittens are safe.The disease cannot develop.

Problems arise only when both parents are carriers of the same mutation — and even then, not all kittens will inherit it.

This is exactly why responsible breeders test their breeding cats and avoid pairing two carriers of the same gene.

Why Vets Sometimes Create Panic

A veterinarian may listen to a stressed cat’s heart, hear a murmur, and immediately recommend an expensive ultrasound.

Important to know:

If at least one parent of your kitten is Clear for HCM,your kitten is genetically protected, and the disease cannot develop from that mutation.

A stressed or frightened cat can show temporary “false murmurs.”This is normal and not a sign of disease.

And remember:

Even if both parents were carriers, no ultrasound can change genetics.The vet is not treating the mutation — only observing.

The disease will either appear genetically or not.Repeated stressful examinations only harm the cat and drain your wallet.

In these situations, the only real winner is the “murmur listener.”

So What Should Owners Do?

✔ Do not panic✔ Do not rush into expensive procedures✔ First, check the DNA tests of the parents

If at least one parent is Clear, your kitten is safe — enjoy your life together and protect your nerves.

If both parents carry the mutation, the best support you can provide your cat is:

• love• calm• a stress-free environment

Anxiety only worsens the situation — for both the animal and the owner.

Important Note

A full list of all currently known genetic diseases in cats will be posted in the first comment.

You will notice something important:

There are no tests for hip dysplasia or entropion.These conditions develop due to trauma or mechanical factors — not genetics.

However, because misinformation often spreads online and breeders receive unfair accusations, we will cover these conditions in detail in one of the next parts of this series.