This is a cross-post with another website which happens to be dedicated to Maine Coon cats. As far as I’m concerned, it is a crying shame that this magnificent domestic cat – probably the largest domestic cat breed – is so blighted by a genetic inheritance which in 25% of adults cripples them. It is just not right. The size of this breed is a partial reason for this inherited condition. But the bottom line is that irresponsible selective breeding (artificial selection as opposed to natural selection) which has been allowed for many years by the cat associations is the cause. The great sadness – and I don’t want to be too downbeat – is that about 30% of Maine Coon cats suffer from another genetic mutation which severely affects health and which makes it likely that they will develop hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). I shake my head in despair really. And the major health issues affecting this cat breed don’t stop there (spinal atrophy is another)! Imagine. The breeders and cat fancy organisers should be hauled in front of a panel of regulators superior to the cat associations and grilled on why years of sloppy management has been allowed to persist.
I am not saying that inbreeding through selective breeding (artificial selection) is the only reason for the presence of this inherited disease because it is present in the general domestic cat population but to a much lesser extent. Therefore, this high prevalence at about a quarter of Maine Coon cats suffering from the disease is, I would argue, due to very poor management by the cat associations in failing to ensure that their member breeders do a lot more to ensure that their cats are healthy.
In an ideal world I would further argue that in terms of inherited diseases, the Maine Coon cat should be no worse than the general cat population. That must be the goal but it seems that the cat fancy disagree to me on that. They argue that Maine Coon cats have got to have some inherited diseases because they have to inbreed their cats to create this fantastic appearance. Appearance trumps health.
Below are a couple of links to articles on related topic. There are many more. Please search.
Infographic on extreme Maine Coon muzzle versus Grand Champion muzzle
