Several hundred genetic diseases and other traits of interest have been described in the domestic cat. While a fraction of these traits have been characterized at the genetic level, only a handful of studies have identified the causative mutation(s). Our long-term goal is to develop the necessary gene mapping tools for feline geneticists to identify and characterize genes causing disease in cats. The current cat gene map contains over 1,900 markers mapped in a feline radiation hybrid (RH) panel. This study will cytogenetically map 110 large-insert clones from the feline genome assembly to connect the cat gene maps to each feline chromosome. The cytogenetic map will add an extra level of quality control to the feline genome maps, which will better enable feline researchers to identify the genetic bases of feline diseases and will enhance the health of the species.
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