Decrease in Proportion of Genetic Mutation Linked to Feline Osteochondrodysplasia

Anicom Pafe, Inc. (President: Kai Ataka) and Anicom Advanced Medical Research, Inc. (President: Ryo Horie), in collaboration with Azabu University (President: Ken Murakami), have conducted a large-scale genetic analysis of 8,610 cats in Japan focusing on the TRPV4 c.1024G>T mutation, which has been reported to be associated with osteochondrodysplasia and folded-ear traits in Scottish Folds.

The results confirmed that the proportion of individuals homozygous for this mutation in the Scottish Fold population significantly and statistically declined from 14.2% in 2017 to 1.9% in 2024. Meanwhile, no statistically significant changes were observed in the proportions of heterozygous or wild-type individuals.

Furthermore, while this mutation was most frequently identified in Scottish Folds, it was also detected in other breeds, such as American Curls and Munchkins.

This research indicates that careful breeding decisions utilizing genetic testing can contribute to identifying and reducing the risks of hereditary diseases. It also underscores the importance of considering genetic testing for breeds with suspected histories of crossbreeding with Scottish Folds. The study was published online on May 10, 2026, in 'Animal Genetics,' an international journal specializing in animal genetics published by Wiley.