Scotty cramp
Also known as: Scottish Terrier Cramp · Scotty-Krampf · Serotonin-responsive hyperkinesia · Episodic hypertonia in Scottish Terriers
Overview
What it is
Scotty cramp is an inherited neurological disorder affecting how the central nervous system processes serotonin, a chemical messenger that helps regulate muscle movement. This metabolic issue causes temporary, painless muscle spasms, primarily in Scottish Terriers. Because the specific genetic mutation causing this autosomal-recessive condition is currently unidentified, there is no commercially available genetic test for it.
How it presents
Owners typically notice symptoms between 2 and 18 months of age, usually triggered by excitement, stress, or exercise. During these episodes, the dog may develop a stiff, stilted walking style, an arched back, and a temporary difficulty moving.
Treatment
While the condition is lifelong and cannot be cured, it is highly manageable through stress reduction and daily medications like serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Lifetime management and veterinary monitoring typically cost between 500 and 4000 EUR.
How it's tested
Labogen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch)(Labogen-Panel)
Primary testDNA testRassespezifisches DNA-Panel (Labogen / Laboklin) — bündelt alle relevanten Erbkrankheiten der Rasse in einem Test.
Issuing body: Labogen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Feragen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch)(Feragen-Panel)
DNA testRassespezifisches DNA-Panel (Feragen, Österreich) — gleiches Konzept wie Labogen.
Issuing body: Feragen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Embark Breed + Health Panel(Embark)
DNA testUS-Anbieter; 250+ genetische Erkrankungen + Abstammung. Anerkennung in DE/AT variiert je nach VDH-Verein.
Issuing body: Embark
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
MyDogDNA Panel(MyDogDNA)
DNA testGenoscoper-basiertes Panel (Mars Petcare). 200+ Erkrankungen + Rassenkomposition.
Issuing body: MyDogDNA
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Affected breeds
1 of 1 breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Scotty cramp?
Scotty cramp is an inherited neurological disorder affecting how the central nervous system processes serotonin, a chemical messenger that helps regulate muscle movement. This metabolic issue causes temporary, painless muscle spasms, primarily in Scottish Terriers. Because the specific genetic mutation causing this autosomal-recessive condition is currently unidentified, there is no commercially available genetic test for it.
How is Scotty cramp tested?
Tests currently in our database: Labogen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch), Feragen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch), Embark Breed + Health Panel, MyDogDNA Panel.
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: Scottish Terrier.