Talking About HCM ( Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy)

and understanding it.......

First let me say, every responsible breeder should screen for HCM.  It is the most common form of heart disease in maine coons.  Actually 33% of maine coons tested at the Washington State University carry at least one copy of the gene.

So what does that mean?  Very simple, if a cat carries two of the genes, it should never be bred.  It if carries none of the genes, the chances of any cats having HCM is extremely small, pretty much a fluke.  Breeding cats with one of the genes is acceptable as long as the cat you are breeding to has none.  However, it is still a risk breeding one with HCM gene.  There is a chance that that kitten will develop HCM in the future.  Not worth the risk of losing a family member.

This being said, I am please to announce that my breeding males do not have HCM.  I have completed testing on all my females and those are also Negative. 

 If a breeder tells you they are tested, it's your right as a buyer to see their certificate.  Ask for the paperwork.  You are making a major investment and a lifelong committment to your animal.  Keep in mind that we are continually learning about this disease and this information is the very best we can do.

If you purchased a kitten from a breeder and you are not sure if they have done testing, http://www.vetmed.wsu.edu/ClientEd/hcm.aspx is the link, it will be the best $60.00 investment you make! It is also a great website for more information about HCM.  If you have put a deposit on a kitten and the breeder doesn't test, ask them if you can take them to the vet to have the test swab taken and send it off yourself.  The results come in two weeks. If the cat tests positive, get your deposit back or select another kitten and the breeder should be required to pay for the additional test.