TIBS Lightning Fund - The International Bengal Cat Society is running a fund to specifically address the pressing need to research the root cause of the heart disease, HCM, affecting Bengal Cats.
It is really good to see something tangible being done. The fund was established on 12th Sept. 2007. Well done TIBS. The study will be led by Dr. Kate Meurs of Washington State University under the administration of the WINN feline foundation. Click here to go to the TIBS website to make a donation. It will no doubt be a long journey to isolate the genetic mutation(s) responsible.
I have made several posts on the issue of Bengal cats and HCM. There are a number of comments on these posts indicating an interest, which is pleasing to see as it is probably the most important issue in the Bengal cat breeding fraternity.
The Maine Coon cat breed has a high incidence of the same disease and no doubt the research programme in relation to that breed can be referenced in the proposed research to be undertaken at Washington State University.
Note: the testing is painless and easy (a swab is taken from the mouth), so please don't be fearful in that regard.
TIBS Lightning Fund to Home Page
Thanks for posting this information about The Lightning Fund. The only way we're going to be able to find a 100% accurate test for this disorder, and a cure, is to do research. It takes thousands of dollars to complete just one scientific genetic study, so every donation counts and helps.
ReplyDeleteJust in case anyone reading this is concerned about medical research, let me assure you that cats participating in these kinds of genetic studies feel no pain. They just need to donate a bit of DNA, either through a cheek swab or a very small blood sample that can be taken during a regular vet check up when the cat is already having its blood drawn.
This is a great blog with great information. Keep up the good work!
Thanks for the comment. The Lightning Fund is very important. I wish it success. A lot of work needs to be carried out.
ReplyDeleteI understand that there are not enough volunteer breeders who have come forward with HCM positive cats. Pls. post the appropriate research contact. I have a diagnosed HCM positive bengal from a very prolific stud who was suddenly retired before he was even 2 years old. I would like to call the research recruiters of this study directly, and have them draw blood from my bengal. He was diagnosed at 1 yr old, and he is now pushing 5 yrs.
ReplyDeleteMichelle
Hi, I confess that I have struggled to find more details of the research recruiters, which I am not happy about. You might contact TIBS direct and ask for details on this email:
ReplyDeletemsecretary@tibcs.com
Regards
PS if I find something better I'll post it.