Disease overview

Spinal muscular atrophies are a heterogenous group of diseases, varying in clinical severity and age of onset. All SMAs are caused by degeneration of the lower motor neurons of the spinal cord. This results in ataxia and muscle atrophy, particularly in the hind limbs. The disease in cats is similar to the human SMA type III, with juvenile onset and somewhat milder phenotype.

Gene name

LIX1

Inheritance

Autosomal recessive

Signs and symptoms

Clinical signs of spinal muscular atrophy include an unsteady posture and inability to walk normally. In most cases, there will be profound atrophy of the muscles in the hind legs. This condition is painless. Signs typically occur at 3-4 months of age.

How is it diagnosed

Genetic testing can be used to support the diagnosis. A presumptive diagnosis is made based off of history and clinical signs.

Breeds at higher risk

Citations

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16899656/

Disclaimer

Disease diagnosis and treatment should always be performed by a veterinarian. The following information is for educational purposes only.