Fainting Goat Kittens Video: Myotonia Congenita Revealed
With over 4 million views, the fainting kittens have shed a bright light on the rare disease of Myotonia Congenita. The adorable little kittens in the video seem to “faint” after just a few seconds of playing. The kittens have the fainting episodes at the same time due to the nature of the very rare disease.
What is Fainting Kitten (Myotonia Congenita)?
It is also known as Thomsen’s disease or Becker’s disease. In animals it is also known as fainting goat syndrome.
According to U.S. National Library of Medicine,
Myotonia congenita is an inherited condition that affects muscle relaxation. It is congenital, meaning that it is present from birth.
Myotonia congenita is caused by a genetic change (mutation). It is passed down from either one or both parents to the children (inherited).
Myotonia congenita is caused by a problem in the part of the muscle cells that are needed for muscles to relax. Abnormal repeated electrical discharges occur in the muscles, causing a stiffness called myotonia.
Prognosis of Fainting Kitten
While the two kittens in the video died young, this is normally not an issue with fainting goat cats. The cats affected by this disease tend to go on and live a somewhat normal life.
Kittens with fainting goat syndrome will have low body fat and will be extremely muscular. However, this congenital disease will affect them their entire lives.
The key to having a kitten with this diagnosis is to watch the cat. It will not be able to run away from predators or escape danger. Therefore, you as the owner, will need to take extra precaution to keep the kitten safe well after it becomes an adult.