Hypokalaemic periodic paralysis / Burmese Hypokalemia / BHP (WNK4-related) - Cat

Burmese Hypokalemia / BHP

This genetic test analyses the WNK4 variant c.2899C>T that causes hypokalaemic periodic paralysis in cats. The condition is also known as Burmese Hypokalemia, BHP, HPP or feline hypokalaemic periodic paralysis.

Affected cats develop abnormally low blood potassium with episodes of muscle weakness. This can appear as weakness of the neck and head muscles, head bobbing, muscle tremors, a short gait, difficulty moving and sometimes generalized weakness.

Practical value of this test

• Shows whether a cat is clear, a carrier or genetically affected for the WNK4 variant.
• Helps breeders avoid carrier-to-carrier matings.
• Supports early recognition of genetic risk in Burmese lines.

The condition is autosomal recessive: cats with two copies of the variant are genetically affected, while carriers can pass the variant on.