DNA Test for Cats
With recent advances in genetic testing and the sequencing of many cat genes, cat DNA testing has become available through various companies and veterinarian offices.
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Information Learned
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DNA tests of cats can reveal the parentage of purebred cats, the breeds included in mixed-breed cats, underlying health problems and definitive identification of traits such as Siamese color points.
Procedure
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Collecting cat DNA for testing is fairly simple. Owners use a cotton swab to collect cells from the inside of the cat's mouth and mail in the sample for testing.
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Providers
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Feline DNA tests can be obtained through private companies or veterinary offices as well as the Catgenes.org website, run as a joint effort between the Cat Fanciers' Association, Texas A&M University Animal Genetics Laboratory and private lab DNA Diagnostics, Inc.
Types
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Most cat DNA test providers offer a few types of tests, generally costing about $35 to $40 each. (Prices current as of 2007.) They generally include a parentage test to link a particular kitten to its parents, a cat DNA profile that gives owners the specific sequence of their cat's DNA for identification and disease tests that look for specific inherited diseases.
Considerations
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If the results from your cat's DNA test are not what you expect, don't use it as a reason to abandon your pet. It isn't the cat's fault, and even imperfect felines deserve a loving home.
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References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Tina Keller
