A pilot study about multiple congenital ocular anomalies in trait Comtois horse breed

Abstract

The Silver gene is at the origin of the special coat color of the Trait Comtois Horse breed, but also predisposes carriers to Multiple Congenital Ocular Anomalies syndrome.
 The objective of this pilot study was to evaluate the awareness and knowledge of Comtois owners about this topic through their response to a questionnaire. After completing it, we offered documentation for them to keep and to refer to when they feel the need.
 The majority of the owners were aware about the gene, but still many are confused with its issues. Genetic testing is not systematically done when ocular problems are noticed, but willingness to pay more attention to genotypes is present in the common spirit. By developing a proper reproduction management and a proper genotyping of the Comtois horse breed population, conservation and enhancement of the breed will be possible. In this regard, Silver homozygous equines should not be discriminated, as they may possess desirable traits and may be able to perform as any other horse in their domain of activity. They should instead be encouraged to be mated with their bay peers, in order to obtain heterozygous foals. Genetic testing campaigns are increasingly offered during competitions and open to all categories of horses.
 This problematic should not divide breeders, but rather motivate them to work altogether to be able to perpetuate the Trait Comtois horse breed, flagship of the Franche-Comté region.