Hairless Hearts

If you are a cat lover, chances are at some point you have admired the Sphynx cat.  These bald, wrinkly kitties are full of personality and spunk! 

The breed is relatively new, having developed as the breed we know today starting in 1966.  Hairless cats, however, have been around throughout history.  Like all cats, the Sphynx can suffer from a devastating cardiac disease called hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM).  The breed, however, is over-represented in cats that are affected with about 15% of those tested being positive.  Early detection of HCM is vital as often there are no obvious symptoms prior to death or devastating complications.

Our own Dr. Riepe has taken a personal interest in helping to decrease the effects of HCM on the Sphynx breed and the people that love them by becoming involved in Hairless Hearts.  Hairless Hearts is an organization which coordinates with veterinary cardiologists to provide affordable early-detection screening for HCM as well as to provide support to HCM-affected Sphynx owners.  Dr. Riepe became a recognized partner for the Pawpeds pedigree database a few years ago, which allows the OVRS cardiology department to work with these special cats and their breeders to lessen the impact of HCM.  Oakland Veterinary Referral Service is thrilled to be able to play a part in this important initiative.

For more information about hypertrophic cardiomyopathy or the Sphynx breed, please visit www.hairlesshearts.org.