Genetic conditions in cats refer to health issues that are passed down through inherited genes. Some of these conditions are breed-specific, while others can affect any cat.
From heart disease in Maine Coons to deafness in white cats with blue eyes, these inherited traits can impact a cat’s quality of life and require lifelong care. Understanding the genetic risks tied to certain breeds is an important part of being a responsible cat parent.
Early detection through vet screenings and genetic testing can help manage or even prevent serious issues. Knowing what to watch for can make a huge difference in your cat’s health and happiness.
Whether you’re a cat owner or a prospective adopter, learning about feline genetic disorders will help you provide better care and make informed decisions. Explore our articles below to get familiar with the most common inherited conditions in cats.
If you’ve noticed your cat bumping into furniture, hesitating in dim lighting, or showing signs of disorientation at night, it might not just be clumsiness—it could be a sign of progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). This inherited condition gradually leads to blindness in cats and can affect even young or seemingly healthy kitties. Let’s break down … Read more
Inherited disorders in cats are genetic problems passed from one generation to the next. Certain cat breeds are more prone to these issues because of their smaller gene pools, and some conditions can have serious effects on health and lifespan. Knowing which disorders exist—and whether your cat’s breed is at risk—can help you make informed … Read more
Have you ever noticed a kitten that walks a bit differently—maybe a little wobbly, or sits with their legs splayed? It might seem cute or quirky at first, but in some Maine Coons, it can be a sign of something more serious: spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). We met a Maine Coon kitten named Jasper through … Read more
I’ll never forget when my first cat, Misty, started moving a little differently. She was the kind of cat who made everything look effortless—hopping onto bookshelves, perching on window ledges like a queen surveying her kingdom. But one day, she hesitated. She paused before jumping, sat down gingerly, and even started bunny-hopping up the stairs. … Read more
I remember when a friend of mine called me, completely panicked. Her big, fluffy Maine Coon—just four years old—had suddenly collapsed and couldn’t move his back legs. She rushed him to the emergency vet, thinking it was a stroke or something neurological. The real diagnosis? Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in cats. I had heard of it before—but … Read more