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Re: Feline Hip Dysplasia Testing
I have heard of it, but as yet i wasnt aware that there were any tests available for feline HD?
There are various hip scoring methods available for dogs but i didnt think anything had yet been developed for cats, as it seems the numbers effected seem so low.
On top of that, canine HD there is no genetic test available. It is thought to be polygenic (caused by many genes). This means that a number of different genetic defaults in various combinations go into making a predisposition for HD. Until every gene is identified, and all the combinations are identified, genetic testing for this would be impossible. If the same causes apply in the cat world, then again, there are no genetic tests.
In any large population there will inevitably be sicker and weaker animals. Add to that the BYB, kitten farmers and pet breeders. Who do not breed from good quality stock, do not health test and many times have little knowledge, understanding or caring to ensure the kittens are reared properly. Its fairly obvious that there will be a number of cats and kittens effected by some form of illness or disease thought to have heriditary links.
HD is also more difficult to quantify because of the environmental factors which effect it. Good breeders reccomend restricted excercise for pups from breeds prone to HD, will only breed from healthy tested parents of good hip scores and reccomend pups do not overdo it until they have finished growing. Over excercise, being raiesd on permanently hard floors, running up and down stairs can all contribute to HD.
I would be very interested to read your research and any you have gathered elsewhere! I would like to see what comparisions can be made between canine and feline HD, and what tests if any are available in the uk.
I have read the the OFA and pennhip are examining HD in cats, but until a scoring system is developed i am not aware of any tests available to breeders, perhaps i'm wrong?
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