of the females had HCM. On top of this 6.4% of males and 3.5% of females were judged to be equivocal. HCM testing of males used for breeding is now mandatory for breeders organised under the Danish Fife member, Felis Danica. The breed is thought to be at high risk of polycystic kidney disease (PKD). A DNA test lab has noted a significant decrease of the PKD mutations in tested populations. Carrier frequency is now at 1%. Potential health problems Polycystic kidney disease This disease forms a cyst in the cat's kidney, causing organ failure. Polycystic kidney disease can be detected through genetic testing or ultrasound. There is no cure for polycystic kidney disease but there are drugs that can alleviate the effects and its advancement. Cardiomyopathy The heart muscle thickens which limits the amount of blood that is pumped, leading to blood clots and heart failure. Cardiomyopathy can be detected through ultrasound, ECG, and x-ray. Drugs can alleviate and slow down the advancement of the disease. And urinary tract diseases are very common. Hyperthyroidism Some British Shorthairs have hyperthyroidism, which is caused by excessive thyroid hormone production, affecting metabolism. It brings serious problems to cats because thyroid hormone affects nearly all of cats' organs, especially their hearts. Older cats, in general, are more susceptible to it. Some of the signs are weight loss, panting, sickness, and greasy coat. Cats with hyperthyroidism need surgery and medication as treatment. Cystitis Cystitis affects cats' urinary tracts and leads to inflammation in their urinary bladders. Cystitis is hard to cure. Stress, bacterial infection, and bladder stones usually cause cystitis. Some of the symptoms are frequent urination and having blood in cats' urine. Cats with cystitis need plenty of water and special medical diet. The treatments include anti-inflammatory medication and antibiotics. Commemoration In 2022, the British Shorthair was one of eight cats featured on a series of UK postage stamps issued by the Royal Mail. References External links The Interest Group Cat’s Healthy Hearts Association (IG HGK) British Shorthair kitten information, sources, breeders British Shorthair: Their History, Breeds and Other Facts Cat breeds Cat breeds originating in the United Kingdom Natural cat breeds Linebred animals