GM1 Gangliosidosis is a neurodegenerative disorder caused by dysfunction in lysosomal storage. Deficiency of the ß-galactosidase enzyme leads to accumulation of GM2 ganglioside within the lysosomes of neurons. This accumulation then leads to cellular dysfunction, degeneration, and eventual neuronal death. The onset of clinical signs occurs at approximately three to five months of age. The first clinical signs are mild intention tremors. The disease rapidly progresses to severe ambulatory difficulties, seizures, and blindness. Affected kittens are usually euthanized on welfare grounds by ten months of age.

Upon initial observation of clinical signs, affected cats should be closely monitored to assess welfare and devise a supportive care treatment plan. As clinical signs are progressive, affected cats are usually euthanized on welfare grounds by ten months of age.

There are many responsibilities to consider when breeding cats. Regardless of test results it is important that your cat is in good general health and that you are in a position to care for the kittens if new responsible owners are not found. For first time or novice breeders, advice can be found at most cat registry websites.

This disease is autosomal recessive meaning that two copies of the mutation are needed for disease signs to be shown. A carrier cat with one copy of the GM1 Gangliosidosis mutation can be safely bred with a clear cat with no copies of the GM1 Gangliosidosis mutation. About half of the kittens will have one copy (carriers) and half will have no copies of the GM1 Gangliosidosis mutation. Kittens in a litter which is expected to contain carriers should be tested prior to breeding. Carrier to carrier matings are not advised as the resulting litter may contain affected kittens. Please note: It is possible that disease signs similar to the ones caused by the GM1 Gangliosidosis mutation could develop due to a different genetic or clinical cause.