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There are all types of DNA testing available for humans at home. Some of them want to tell you something about your background and ethnicity. Some would like to provide you with valuable health insights by looking for specific genetic markers. And some want both. Now, thanks to the Basepaws Cat DNA Test, you can get a DNA test that does the same for your furry cat companions.
Why would you want a DNA test for your cat? Well, the Valuable Health Insights part is a no-brainer. But there is more to it than that. Cats are some of our most beloved and loyal companions. However, they are also kind of mysterious. Dog experts can get a pretty good idea of what type of behavior and health issues to expect just by looking at your pooch. That is how well dog breeds are defined. But in cats, there’s basically no way you can understand why they are like this by just looking at them. To do this, you have to dig a little deeper.
This is where the Basepaws Cat DNA test comes in. He uses some really cool science to give you a fun new way to connect with and understand your feline friends.
Image via basepaws
The collection process for the Basepaws Cat DNA test works the same as the collection process for a human DNA test. Upon registration, Basepaws will provide you with a sterile cheek swab, biohazard sample bag, detailed sample collection instructions and prepaid packaging for easy return of your cat’s sample. Once Basepaws receive your cat’s sample, they use state-of-the-art sequencing machines to read and record your cat’s genome.
Of course, you need to figure out how to get the swab into your cat’s mouth. Which should be interesting. But you’re a cat person aren’t you? You can find out!
Once your cat’s DNA has been sequenced, Basepaws will compare your cat’s DNA with the DNA of other Basepaws cats, as well as other cat DNA databases from the scientific community. Some sections of your cat’s DNA contain genes that have already been studied and linked to certain physical characteristics or diseases. Other sections of DNA contain genes whose functions are still unknown. However, Basepaws is on a mission to unlock these secrets, and every cat they sequence brings them closer to that goal.
Once all of the analyzes are done, Basepaws will summarize the results into a report on your cat’s unique genetic profile. You can expect to receive this report in just four to six weeks.
Image via basepaws
The Basepaws profile consists of three elements: breed analysis, wildcat index, and health markers.
The breed analysis shows you which cat breeds are most genetically similar to your cat. Perhaps your cat’s genome resembles a Western Maine Coon? Or an East Burmese? Or an adorable poly cat? Basepaws’ cat genome database can estimate the origin of your tabby from more than 21 breed types and 4 breed regions. This can give you insight into your cat’s behavior and personality traits, or explain why your cat looks the way it does.
The Wildcat Index is a great way to learn about your kitten’s wild side. Basepaws compares your cat’s DNA with the DNA of tigers, leopards, cheetahs and cougars and ranks the results based on genomic similarity. These results are not intended to serve as evidence that your cat is part of the wildcat, but rather to give you an idea of how your cat fits into the domestic cat’s evolutionary history.
Lastly and most importantly, the Basepaws health markers provide important insights that can help you keep your cat happy and healthy in the future. The DNA test searches for 38 different genetic markers and provides reports on the mutation carrier status and predisposition to 16 different diseases, including polycystic kidney disease (PKD), hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), retinal degeneration and myotonia. These reports are not diagnoses, but they can provide valuable insights that can help you should your cat show signs of illness in the future.
Image via Unsplash
The Basepaws Cat DNA Test is a cool way to enjoy modern science, get to know your cat better, and gain valuable health insights that could later extend the life of your furry friend. If this all sounds like something that interests you, click here to learn more and order your product today.
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