Koontucky Health Testing

The Maine Coon is a naturally occurring breed, which evolved in the cold, harsh environment of New England. While natural selection created a sturdy, overall healthy breed, genetic defects still occur. Our dedication to health testing began in 2005 with the development of the HCM MYBPC3-A31P DNA test. We currently use Optimal Selection Wisdom Panel and the MSU cardiology team. Our cats have passed their testing for 2024. Sample Report
PKD - Polycystic Kidney Disease
Polycystic kidney disease is a slowly progressive, irreversible, inherited kidney disease once thought to be only in Persian and Persian-related cats. Thankfully, a DNA test has been developed. Ultimately PKD can result in renal failure. Clinical signs of the disorder typically occur around the age of seven, with clinical signs similar to those of cats with naturally occurring kidney failure.
HCM - Feline Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Feline Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy is the most common type of heart disease in cats and is found in 15% of the domestic cat population. HCM causes a thickening of the left ventricle, decreasing the heart’s efficiency, which can lead to congestive heart failure. Fortunately severe HCM, leading to heart failure or arterial thromboembolism occurs in a small percentage of these cats (Dr Mark Kittleson, DVM, PhD, DACVIM (Cardiology) UC Davis). A DNA test detecting the most common mutation (A31P) found in the Maine Coon was developed in 2005 and is combined with yearly ultrasound testing of breeding stock at MSU.
SMA - Spinal Muscular Atrophy
SMA is a disorder caused by death of spinal cord neurons that activate skeletal muscles of the trunk and limbs. The genetic cause of SMA in Maine Coon cats was determined in 2005, culminating a cooperative 8-year effort of breeders, veterinarians and researchers at Michigan State University, UC San Diego, and the National Center for Biotechnology Information. Thanks to these efforts a DNA test is now available.
PK-Def - Pyruvat Kinase Deficiency
PK-Def is an inherited hemolytic anemia caused by insufficient activity of its namesake regulatory enzyme. A reliable DNA test was developed in 2012.
HD - Hip Dysplasia
HD affects the hip joint. HD is not congenital, meaning the cat is not born with it. It is a condition that develops over time due to the instability of the hip socket. Hip formation is environmental, recessive, and polygenetic. Abnormal wear causes osteoarthritis in one or both hips. Hips are graded by a specialist using radiographs after the cat is two years old.