Recommendations For Testing And Breeding (PRA)

The following recommendations were worked out for the Abyssinians and Somalis. Other breeds might be better off with slightly different recommendations, but for now the Aby/Somali recommendations are the only ones we have.

PRA is an autosomal recessive disorder where the symptoms develop after several years. The diagnosis will catch affected cats only.

It is therefore vital that all cats used in breeding have their eyes examined regularly. Aby & Somaliringen recommends the following routines:

All cats used for breeding should undergo opthalmoscopic examination before first mating and then annually (or before each mating). A final examination is performed after the last mating. Ophtalmoscopic examination can be replaced by ERG.
Breeding cats older than five years should undergo ophtalmoscopic examination every second year for as long as they are used for breeding.
Known carriers for PRA should not be used for breeding. A carrier is defined as a cat that has developed PRA or a cat which has either a parent or an offspring that has been diagnosed with PRA.
Pets should preferably undergo ophtalmoscopic examination at least once in their life time.

Help!

If you feel unsure about what applies for your cat, please don't hesitate to contact the contact person for the health programme!