Cat DNA Test Review: We Compared the Top Two Brands

Overview of Cat DNA Testing

Cat DNA tests use technology to give insight into your cat’s background, health risks, and traits. By studying genetic markers, these tests can reveal breed information, inherited conditions, and more using just a simple cheek swab.

How Cat DNA Tests Work

• When you order a DNA testing kit for your cat, you usually get a small swab to collect a sample from the inside of your cat’s cheek. This sample contains cells with your cat’s DNA. You mail the swab back to the lab in the kit’s provided packaging.
• The lab extracts and reads your cat’s DNA, looking for specific genetic markers. These markers help scientists match parts of your cat’s DNA to known patterns found in different breeds and genetic traits. They also scan for genes linked to certain health conditions.
• Most tests are non-invasive and only need a small saliva sample. Results are usually sent back in a few weeks, often through an online portal. Some companies even use advanced techniques to give a detailed look into your cat’s genetic makeup.

What Can Be Learned from Cat DNA

• With a cat DNA test, you can find out your cat’s possible breed mix and ancestry. Unlike dogs, cat breeds are less distinct, but the tests can show if your cat shares DNA with certain breed groups.
• These tests can also flag health risks. Some look for mutations linked to diseases like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy or polycystic kidney disease. This information can help you and your vet watch for early signs of illness.
• Other traits such as coat type, color, and sometimes even personality tendencies may be included in the report. Some companies rank how closely your cat’s genetics match different breeds, which gives a clearer picture of your cat’s background.

Types of Cat DNA Tests

• There are different types of cat DNA tests available. Breed identification tests mainly focus on telling you the breed mix or closest breed relatives. These are popular for people curious about their rescue cat’s background.
• Health screening tests look for genetic markers linked to inherited diseases or health conditions so you can prepare for possible issues. Some kits also combine both breed and health testing. Products like those from Basepaws offer a Breed + Health DNA Test that covers both areas.
• Some tests are more detailed, including ancestry tracking and even predictions about a cat’s traits or physical features. The more advanced the test, the higher the cost and the more insights you receive.

Meet the Top Two Cat DNA Tests

Modern cat DNA tests can help you learn your cat’s breed makeup, possible health risks, and even some personality traits. These tests give you a breakdown of your cat’s background, much like the DNA services available for people.

basepaws: Features and Capabilities

• basepaws is one of the most well-known cat DNA testing kits. You simply collect a saliva sample from your cat using a swab, mail it back, and receive results online a few weeks later.
• You will get a detailed breed breakdown, showing you which breeds are in your cat’s ancestry. basepaws compares your cat’s DNA to a large database, which increases the accuracy of breed predictions.
• Your report includes information on genetic markers that may show a higher risk for certain diseases. This can help you talk with your vet about possible health concerns. You’ll also see traits related to appearance, like coat type and color.
• Results are easy to understand with simple charts and graphics. The basepaws kit is easy to use at home, has clear instructions, and the company is known for helpful customer support. More details about the kit’s features can be found on the basepaws product site.

Comparing to 23andme and ancestry tests

• Cat DNA testing works a lot like popular human DNA tests such as 23andme and ancestry kits, but there are key differences. While 23andme and ancestry focus on tracing human family history and ethnic background, cat DNA tests focus on breed detection and health risks.
• With human tests, you receive detailed data about your family tree and possible relatives worldwide. Cat DNA tests are less about matching your cat with relatives and more about breed mix and health markers.
• Both types of tests use swabs to collect DNA, but the cat-focused services often have smaller breed databases than their human counterparts. This means human tests might be more precise about ancestry. Still, cat DNA kits do provide valuable health and breed insights.

Other Competitors in Pet DNA Testing

• There are a few other big names besides basepaws. The most notable is Wisdom Panel, which also makes dog DNA kits. Wisdom Panel offers breed detection, health risk screening, and traits analysis for cats.
• Each company varies in the number of breeds covered and types of health risks checked. For example, Wisdom Panel looks at over 70 cat breeds and dozens of potential health conditions, making it a top competitor.
• A comparison of popular cat DNA test kits shows that while basepaws and Wisdom Panel are the most detailed, some other brands offer simpler results or focus only on breed. For a deeper look at how these competitors stack up, check this full review of the best cat DNA tests.

Testing Experience and Process

Using a cat DNA testing kit at home is simple, but there are important differences in how you collect the sample, ship it, and get your results. Some kits make things easier for pet owners, while others might take extra time or be confusing in parts.

Sample Collection and Submission

• Collecting a DNA sample usually involves swabbing the inside of your cat’s cheek with a cotton swab, but the actual method can differ slightly. Both the Basepaws and Wisdom Panel kits include clear instructions and all the tools you need.
• You hold your cat gently, then use the swab to rub against its cheek for about 5 to 10 seconds. Some pet owners find this part tricky if their cat is skittish, but most complete it quickly. Once the sample is taken, you place the swab in a collection tube and seal it carefully.
• You then register your kit using the code provided and fill in details about your cat online. The final step is packing the sample in the prepaid mailer or box, which comes in the kit, and dropping it off at the post office or a shipping location.

Turnaround Time and Shipping

• Turnaround time is important when you want fast results. Based on tests and user feedback, Basepaws usually takes about 4-6 weeks after the lab gets your sample. Wisdom Panel can be a bit faster, with results often ready in about 3 weeks.
• Both companies include prepaid shipping materials. This means you do not need to pay extra for mailing the kit back. Shipping instructions are simple, and you can track your sample’s status online.
• Delays can happen, especially during busy times or holidays. You will get updates by email, so it’s easy to know when your cat’s results are processing or ready.

User Experience for Pet Owners

• The dna testing kit process is designed to be as easy as possible for pet owners. Instruction booklets use large print and include step-by-step pictures, making it less stressful even if you have never tried DNA testing before.
• Some kits, like Wisdom Panel, have an easy-to-use website and mobile app where you can see videos, FAQs, and a dashboard showing your sample’s progress. You also get regular notifications, taking away the guesswork while you wait.
• Basepaws and Wisdom Panel both offer helpful customer service if you have questions. You can reach out by email or phone, and most pet owners report prompt, friendly support. This makes the dna testing kit a manageable project—even if your cat isn’t the most cooperative.
• You will need internet access for registration and tracking, but all other steps are done at home with your cat. This balance of convenience and support helps you get through the process without much hassle.

Accuracy and Reliability of Cat DNA Results

Cat DNA tests can give you insight into your cat’s ancestry and certain health markers. Their accuracy depends on the type of genetic markers analyzed and other factors in the testing process.

Understanding Genetic Markers

• Cat DNA testing labs look at specific genetic markers—small parts of DNA that are unique to certain breeds or traits. These markers help identify your cat’s likely breed mix and may show potential genetic health risks.
• Some labs use a microarray platform to compare your cat’s DNA to a large database. For example, the Wisdom Panel test says it can deliver results that are over 99.99% accurate, based on a highly accurate microarray technology, according to Dr. Louviere cited in a review.
• However, accuracy is limited by the current knowledge of cat genetics. Cats have less breed variety compared to dogs, and many cat breeds are closely related. This means the test might not always pinpoint breed mixes perfectly, especially in cats with unknown or mixed ancestry.
• Your cat’s results can include a list of detected breeds, a map of regional ancestry, and health risk factors. Still, you should read the scientific details behind the test’s methods to know how much trust to place in each part of the report.

Factors That Impact DNA Test Accuracy

• DNA test accuracy can change based on different factors. The size and diversity of the laboratory’s breed database play a big role. If the breed isn’t well-represented in the database, your cat’s breed prediction could be off.
• Sample quality matters, too. Contaminated or poorly collected DNA samples lead to errors or inconclusive results. Always follow the sample collection instructions exactly for the best outcome.
• Genetic studies on cats are newer and less established than those for dogs. This means some health risk results may be less reliable because they can’t always be directly linked to how likely your cat is to get a certain disease, as explained in this vet review.
• Most veterinarians don’t use cat DNA test results to make medical decisions. The tests can give helpful hints, but they aren’t a replacement for professional screenings and regular checkups.