Genetic Health Testing for Warmbloods

Warmblood horses, renowned for their versatility, athleticism, and elegance, are a popular choice for disciplines such as dressage, show jumping, and eventing. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain genetic health conditions. Understanding these genetic predispositions through DNA testing is crucial for supporting their long-term health and performance, whether they are your competition partner or being used for breeding. Some of the potential genetic health conditions and risks seen in Warmblood horses include:

Fragile Foal Syndrome (FFS)

FFS, initially named “Warmblood” Fragile Foal Syndrome as it was first thought to only affect Warmblood horses, is a genetic disorder that is characterized by extreme skin fragility and hypermobile joints. Foals with FFS are often born with severe lesions and open wounds due to their fragile skin, and may also suffer from joint laxity, making movement difficult and painful. This condition is caused by a genetic mutation, and foals must inherit two copies of the FFS gene (FFS/FFS) to display symptoms. Horses with only one copy of the gene (FFS/n) are carriers and are not thought to show symptoms but can pass the gene to their offspring. DNA testing for FFS is crucial for breeders to identify carriers and make informed breeding decisions to prevent the birth of affected foals.

Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy Type 1 (PSSM1)

Some Warmblood horses may be genetically predisposed to PSSM1, a metabolic muscle disorder. PSSM1 can lead to muscle stiffness and pain due to abnormal glycogen storage in muscle cells. Horses with PSSM1 often have episodes of external rhabdomyolysis, or 'tying-up,' where they are reluctant to move and experience muscle damage after exercise. Horses with one copy of the PSSM gene (PSSM1/n) usually have milder symptoms that can be managed with a low-sugar, low-starch diet and regular exercise. However, horses with two copies of the gene (PSSM1/PSSM1) may have more severe symptoms and can be harder to manage.

West Nile Virus Risk (WNVR)

West Nile Virus (WNV) is a potentially severe viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes, and some Warmbloods may have a genetic predisposition for a higher susceptibility to developing severe WNV symptoms. WNV primarily affects the central nervous system, causing symptoms such as fever, ataxia (lack of coordination), and muscle weakness. In severe cases, it can lead to encephalitis, which is an acute inflammation of the brain, or even death. Researchers have identified genetic markers associated with an increased risk of severe WNV symptoms in horses. Horses with one copy of these genetic markers (WNVR/n) may show milder symptoms, which can be managed with supportive care and preventative vaccination. However, horses with two copies of the markers (WNVR/WNVR) may experience more severe symptoms, making it crucial to implement preventive measures, such as vaccination and aggressive mosquito control, to protect these at-risk horses. This is a genetic health risk, meaning if your horse carries one or two copies of the variant, they are not necessarily destined to develop the disease but it does indicate that they are at a higher risk of developing it.

Recognizing the genetic health risks and conditions known to affect Warmblood horses is crucial for maximizing their performance potential and proactively managing their long-term health, regardless of any breeding plans. Our extensive Health Panel DNA test gives you the power to know your Warmblood down to their DNA, uncovering potential genetic health conditions and risks.