🔍 What Is Chediak‑Higashi Syndrome?

Chediak‑Higashi syndrome (CHS) is a rare, autosomal recessive genetic disorder caused by a mutation in the LYST gene. It affects pigmentation, immunity, and platelet function in cats—especially dilute “blue smoke” Persians :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}.

⚠️ Key Signs & Risk Factors

• Hypopigmentation: Lightened coat, pale irises, red/orange eye shine, photophobia :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.
• Bleeding issues: Platelet dysfunction causes prolonged bleeding after minor trauma, surgery, or even spontaneous bleeding :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.
• Immune impairment: Abnormal lysosomes in white blood cells reduce infection-fighting ability; recurrent infections are possible :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.
• Cataracts & ocular issues: Cataracts can develop early, often by 3 months, and light sensitivity is common :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.

🔬 How Vets Diagnose CHS

• History & exam: Pale eyes and coat, light sensitivity, excessive bleeding :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}.
• Blood smear: Neutrophils and other cells show giant, eosinophilic granules—hallmark of CHS :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}.
• Platelet testing: Clotting delays and platelet aggregation defects confirmed ✔ :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}.
• Eye exam: Check for cataracts and retinal abnormalities concomitant with hypopigmentation :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}.
• Pigment cell biopsy: Sometimes needed for confirmation in skin or iris tissue :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}.

🛠️ Management & Treatment

CHS has no cure; treatment focuses on managing symptoms and ensuring safety and comfort.

• Prevent bleeding: Take care with injections, blood draws. Pre-surgical platelet transfusions may be required :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}.
• Antibiotic vigilance: Treat infections early; flea environmental control reduces bacterial burden :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}.
• Vitamin C support: May improve platelet and immune function :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}.
• Indoor environment: Shield from sunlight, reduce accident risk, ophthalmic protection :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}.
• Genetic considerations: Spay/neuter affected cats; remove carriers from breeding to prevent passing on CHS :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}.

📅 Long-Term Care & Monitoring

• Frequent check-ups: every 3–6 months to monitor blood cell counts, ocular health & infection status :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}.
• Ongoing vitamin C supplementation and clotting assays may be advised.
• Provide a calm, enriched indoor setting with brand support from Woopf & Purrz.
• Stay connected with vet care via the Ask A Vet app for monitoring and emergency support.

⚖️ Prognosis & Quality of Life

• Most CHS cats have a normal lifespan with proper care :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}.
• Bleeding risks and infections can be managed proactively.
• Cataracts and light sensitivity may require adapted indoor lighting.
• Severe cases with major infections may have guarded prognosis.

🛡️ Prevention in Breeding

• Do not breed affected or carrier cats.
• Test blood smears or DNA (if available) to identify carriers.
• Breed only cats tested clear of LYST mutation.

📊 Summary Table