While inbreeding does usually pass or create genetic problems, genetic problems can occur within Maine Coon Cats regardless of whether or not inbreeding has taken place. Here are some problems that are specific to Maine Coon Cats.
Hip Dysplasia a problem that most breeders are trying to breed out. They do this by having their studs and dams tested for potential hip Dysplasia, and then only mating normal to normal. This, unfortunately, doesn't always breed out the disorder, giving researchers the idea that hip Dysplasia can skip numerous generations.
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy is also a genetic disorder, which can cause the left ventricle of the heart to thicken and stiffen. This leads to heart failure. Maine Coons can be tested for this disorder between the ages of 1 and 7 years.
Polycystic Kidney Disease is a condition where cysts exist in the kidneys, which can eventually lead to renal kidney failure. This condition can be detected at a very young age, even though the problem won't have an impact until later in life.
Patellar Luxation is a condition where the knee cap moves and locks, causing pain. It can generally be moved back into place easily enough, and if the case is serious and very painful, surgery can correct it. Top breeders feel that a cat that has Petellar Luxation should not be bred.
White Linked Deafness is associated to white colored animals, but a great deal of research is still needed. This problem is serious to the point where all white cats are required to be checked by the vet for deafness before they can be entered into any shows.
Other common, but not serious genetic problems include Polydactyl, Color Point Colors, and Rex. While none of these problems are harmful, breeders try to avoid them - especially polydactyl, which mean that the cat has an extra toe.
While there are breeders who do not have a problem with inbreeding or line breeding, many breeders try to avoid this, and use outcross breeding instead, where the two animals that are being mated are the same breed, but come from different blood lines. Some agree with line breeding, but do not agree with inbreeding.
If you use line breeding or inbreeding, you are advised to eventually use outcross breeding at some point. It is believed that each generation of inbreeds get weaker and have more health problems, including genetic problems.
If you are purchasing a Maine Coon kitten, it is important that you know what breeding method the breeder used, and obtain a written guarantee concerning the health of the kitten. Also, visit your veterinarian right away for genetic testing, to ensure that it is not genetically disposed to the serious health problems. Some breeders will have already had these tests done, and will provide you with documentation.
Note that a kitten that does have a genetic disorder, or the potential for a genetic disorder, can still live a long, full life, and can still love, be loved, and participate in shows. However, that cat should not be used for breeding purposes.
