X-RAY DAY

As part of our health program, we routinely X-ray our breeding cats to ensure we never use cats with significant hip dysplasia (HD). On December 2nd, we wrapped up Zahar and Huldra and headed to Nedre Glomma Dyrlegekontor for their screenings. Thanks to our show that weekend, both cats arrived in full show condition—and they received plenty of compliments.

It’s always a pleasure visiting this clinic; the staff are warm, the coffee surprisingly good, and this time we were even treated to gingerbread cookies. Little touches like that make the whole experience feel far more relaxed.

A couple of hours later we were already on our way home, and the X-rays were on their way to OFA for evaluation.

Then came the waiting.

After a few days of suspense, the results finally arrived: Zahar is officially HD-free, while Huldra unfortunately has mild HD. Mild HD doesn’t disqualify a cat outright, but it does mean we have to carefully consider whether she should have a single litter—possibly with Zahar, who is free—or whether it’s better to remove her from breeding entirely.

It’s simply not possible, nor wise, to eliminate every cat with the slightest hint of HD without putting the entire breed at risk. Breeding decisions like this require thoughtful evaluation, input from specialists, and discussions with fellow breeders.

For now, we focus on the good news and celebrate our beautiful boy Zahar’s great HD results.One step at a time, always with the health of the breed at heart.