New genetic test for Burmese cat mutation
c/o Photocat
A new genetic test has been developed for Burmese hypokalaemia, an inherited muscle weakness in Burmese cats, following the identification of the genetic mutation responsible by a research team which included academics from the University of Bristol.
An autosomal recessive disease, Burmese hypokalaemia is also known as Familial Episodic Hypokalaemic Polymyopathy. It can affect the whole animal or may be localised to the neck or limb muscles, and can result in problems walking or holding the head up correctly.
The new genetic test allows breeders, owners and vets to test for the disease. It is hoped that by genetic testing and selective breeding, the test could be used to eradicate the disease in the Burmese breed.
Dr Chris Helps, Head of Molecular Diagnostic Unit at LVS, University of Bristol, commented: "It is possible to continue to use carrier cats in breeding programmes to retain important breeding lines and to avoid reducing the size of the Burmese gene pool. As long as carrier cats are mated to normal cats, no affected kittens will be produced. This mating is likely to produce kittens that are carriers, which can be identified by genetic testing and, if necessary, future matings arranged with normal cats."
BSAVA is to partner with BVA Live (11-12 June 2026) to champion clinical research.
