Genetic testing for HCM mutations in predisposed breeds enables responsible breeding decisions that reduce the prevalence of this serious cardiac disease in future generations.
HCM genetic testing in predisposed breeds is a welfare intervention that protects future generations of cats from a disease causing severe cardiac and welfare harm. Cats with advanced HCM experience respiratory distress, arterial thromboembolism, and sudden death. Breeding decisions that selectively reduce the frequency of known causative mutations progressively reduce disease prevalence across breed populations. The welfare benefit accrues to all future cats produced from healthier breeding lines. Testing does not eliminate the need for echocardiographic screening because HCM can develop from non-tested genetic causes, but it represents an important complementary tool.