Hereditary diseases of cats

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is the general name for a group of diseases of the retina that cause damage to photoreceptor cells (rods and cones) until they die. PRA-pd refers to an early form of retinal atrophy that is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner. At the age of two to three weeks, a weakening of the light reflexes of the pupils can be observed. At first, night vision is lost, by the age of 16-17 weeks there is an almost complete loss of vision. PRA-pd is not cured. A DNA test shows the presence and number of abnormal gene copies, which allows the identification of sick and healthy cats, as well as the identification of healthy carriers. Carriers have PRA-pd in a latent form and can transmit the disease to their offspring, being healthy themselves. The disease is typical for the Persian cat and related breeds.