HCM (Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy) is a disease of the muscle of the heart which causes heart enlargement and eventual heart failure.  There is a genetic component to HCM and the Winn Feline Foundation has established a fund specifically for Persian HCM research. This is a heart breaking disease that affects both pedigreed and mixed breed cats.  There is a DNA test for the gene mutation  in both the Maine Coon and Ragdoll breeds but donations are needed for research to find the mutation in the Persian breed.  Donations can be sent to the Winn Feline Foundation specifically for Persian HCM research and this is tax deductible.

At the present time, an echocardiogram throughout the cat's life is the only way to detect HCM and it is a slow and very expensive process.  A cat can develop cardiomyopathy later in life with no symptoms and then have congestive heart failure or sudden death. 

A DNA test was developed for the PKD1 (polycystic kidney disease) gene mutation in Persians and breeders can now do an easy and inexpensive test to make sure that their breeding stock does not have this mutated gene that can be passed to the kittens.  Hopefully, there will be a breakthrough and researchers will find the mutation for HCM and breeders will have the option of doing a simple swab instead of the expensive and time consuming process of echocardiograms on the heart.  But, this will require donations to pay for the grant for research.  If you would like more information please contact me via phone or email listed on the Contact US page. Listed below is the link to give to the Persian HCM Research Fund.  Click on stipulated funds and then check Persain HCM.