Understanding your cat’s DNA is a must for any feline lover concerned about their well-being. Imagine being able to anticipate the health needs, genetic predispositions or even racial origins of your four-legged friend. This is now possible thanks to DNA tests for cats. But which are the best feline DNA tests among the plethora of products on the market?
| Criteria |  |  |
|---|---|---|
| 🌐 Website | ||
| 🧪 Breeds covered | 350+ | 650 |
| 🧪 Number of diseases tested | 120 | 2 538 |
| 🕰️ Time to results | 2 to 3 weeks | 72 hours |
| 💶 Price | €53 | €99, 98 |
🥇 EasyDNA
EasyDNA, a renowned Belgian laboratory, also specializes in human and pet genetics. Recognized as one of the most accurate in Europe, its accuracy is close to 100%. EasyDNA, offers you CatCheck a DNA test that detects 75 genetic diseases as well as your feline’s physical traits. Within 8 to 10 weeks, you’ll know whether your cat is Abyssinian, Exotic Shorthair American Curl, Donskoy or European. You’ll also know your cat’s hereditary predispositions to certain diseases.
Discover our review of Belgian laboratory EasyDNA.
| Sampling technique | Swab |
| Treatment time | 8 to 10 weeks |
- Detects 75 genetic diseases
- Belgian laboratory ISO 17025 certified
- Identifies the physical traits of the flax
- Discovers the KDP feline line
- Excellent value for money
- Longer lead times than some labs
- Does not cover all breeds
🥈 QuickDNA
Quick DNA is a laboratory specializing in human and animal genetics. Based in the Czech Republic, it holds ISO 1705 certification and offers comprehensive DNA testing for your cat. The laboratory has an extensive database of 650 feline breeds and can detect 2,538 potential hereditary conditions.
In just 72 hours from receipt of the sample, you’ll know all about your cat’s ancestry and the region of the world from which its breed originated. Beyond racial identification, you’ll know the sensitivity
medication sensitivity of your pet. The Quick DNA teams double-identify samples, enabling them to offer accuracy in excess of 99, 997%.
Feel free to read our review of Quick DNA.
| Sampling technique | Swab |
| Processing time | 72 hours |
- The test allows exact autosomal identification of your cat among 650 breeds and types
- Analysis of your cat’s drug sensitivity
- The tests are carried out by an ISO 17025-certified laboratory
- Data accuracy 99.997%
- Data processing is secure
- Sample processing and results dispatch within 72 hours
- May require veterinary consultation
- Risk of falsifying the results
Why should a cat DNA test interest you?
To find out about your feline’s genetics
DNA testing can help you discover your kitty’s genetic heritage. By comparing his DNA with huge databases, we can trace his geographical and genealogical origins, sometimes going back thousands of years. This will tell you the precise breed, whether your cat is a hybrid, Western or Asian breed.
To detect a genetic disease
DNA tests for cats can also detect their predisposition to specific hereditary diseases or atrophies. Some tests provide an overview of the risks for you and your feline companion. On the other hand, others focus on a disease specific to a category of cats.
These tests can also identify dietary deficiencies or intolerances in your pet. In short, you’ll get accurate, useful information about your cat’s health.
To prove a cat’s identity
Imagine for a moment that you come across a stray cat, with no collar or distinguishing marks to identify its owner. In such a situation, a DNA test could be the miracle solution to reunite this little feline with its family. By analyzing the cat’s DNA and comparing it with a vast database, it is possible to find the animal’s rightful owner with remarkable accuracy. This process, though scientific, is an effective way of ensuring the cat’s well-being and relieving his family’s anxiety.
To keep better track of your cat
DNA testing for cats is a real eye-opener for owners wishing to deepen their understanding of their four-legged friend’s behavior and food preferences. With this precise information, you’ll be able to adapt his diet optimally, guaranteeing his well-being and health.
In addition, for breeders, this genetic analysis is an invaluable tool. It will enable you to make informed breeding decisions, ensuring the longevity and quality of your feline lines.
How to perform a genetic test on a cat
To perform a DNA test on your feline, the procedure is surprisingly simple. It all starts with taking a sample. This is done by gently rubbing a sterile brush inside your cat’s cheek to collect epithelial cells.
How to choose a cat DNA test
When choosing a cat DNA test, there are many criteria to consider.
Breed reference database size
The size of the database depends largely on the laboratory chosen. While some limit themselves to basic breed identification, other laboratories offer more in-depth analyses, revealing genetic predispositions to various ailments.
To guarantee a rigorous and reliable analysis, give preference to a company with an exhaustive database, encompassing all feline breeds. A rich database is often a reflection of the laboratory’s expertise and commitment to providing accurate and relevant information to its customers.
Laboratory reliability
Before embarking on a feline genetics test, it’s vital to check the reputation of the laboratory in question. Take the time to explore customer feedback and testimonials, scrutinize certifications obtained and find out how long the company has been in business. Long experience and recognized accreditations are generally a guarantee of reliability. Don’t hesitate to consult articles like this one, or specialized groups, for a wide range of opinions. An informed choice will ensure an accurate and trustworthy analysis of your cat’s DNA.
The type of information reported
Depending on the test you select, the data provided may differ considerably. Some tests focus on your feline’s genealogical traceability, while others focus on your pet’s health and physical characteristics. For this reason, define your expectations before making a choice.
Ask yourself this question: are you looking for information about your cat’s genetic heritage, or are you more concerned about his well-being and health? By clearly understanding your needs, you’ll be better equipped to choose the most suitable test, guaranteeing relevant and informative results.
Cost and delivery
Consider carefully the relationship between service quality and cost. If your budget is a major concern, compare different offers to find the best compromise. On the other hand, if time is of the essence, ask about the speed with which laboratories deliver results.
Are DNA tests for cats accurate?
In general, feline DNA tests are highly accurate. In fact, the majority of reputable laboratories use state-of-the-art technology and exhaustive databases to guarantee optimum accuracy.
As with any scientific test, however, there may be a margin of error in deciphering your pet’s genetic code. Ideally, you should choose a laboratory with a solid reputation and recognized certifications to guarantee reliable testing.
Cat DNA test price
In general, you should expect to pay between 50 and 200 euros to obtain a feline DNA test. Here are the prices of the DNA tests in our selection.
- EasyDNA: €53 – €144
- QuickDNA: €99.90
The cost of a cat DNA kit varies according to several factors: the type of test, the reputation of the laboratory and additional analyses.
What’s the difference between DNA testing for cats and dogs?
Pet DNA testing has revolutionized our understanding of the genetic heritage of our faithful companions. Nevertheless, while tests for cats and dogs share some similarities, they also have some notable differences.
Firstly, the genetic database used for each test is species-specific. DNA tests for dogs are based on a vast collection of canine genetic profiles, while those for cats focus on feline profiles.
Secondly, the diversity of dog breeds is more extensive than that of cats, which can influence the complexity and accuracy of results. Thirdly, hereditary health concerns differ between the two species. Canine DNA tests can often detect a greater number of genetic predispositions to disease than feline tests.
Finally, the motivations behind these tests differ. While dog tests are often used by breeders to confirm breed purity, cat tests are generally used by owners curious to discover their alley cat’s mysterious ancestors.
Where to find a cat DNA test?
Finding a cat DNA test has become remarkably simple. Most suppliers of feline genetic tests offer their kits directly online, on their official websites. These kits are frequently accompanied by detailed instructions to make sampling easier.
Many vets or veterinary clinics also offer these services and can advise you on the test best suited to your needs. If you prefer a more traditional approach, some pet shops or specialist stores may have kits in stock.
Before you buy, remember to check reviews and recommendations to ensure the reliability and accuracy of your chosen test.
How did we choose our cat DNA tests?
The selection of cat DNA tests we recommend on our site was not taken lightly. Our rigorous selection process is based on several key criteria. First of all, we began with an in-depth search of the most reputable laboratories in the field of feline genetics.
Then we personally tested each kit to assess their ease of use, clarity of instructions and speed of results. Test accuracy was our top priority. And we compared the results obtained with existing data on the cats tested.
Feedback and value for money also played a decisive role in our decision.
Our opinion on genetic testing for cats
Genetic testing for cats is a major advance and a wise investment for feline owners. They provide invaluable information about your pet’s genetic heritage, predisposition to certain diseases and racial origins. Our experience with these tests has shown that they are not only accurate, but also extremely informative.
They can help tailor your cat’s care and diet to its specific needs. However, it’s crucial to choose a kit from a reputable laboratory to guarantee reliable results.