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Cat DNA Test Review

Monday, February 10th

2025 Cat DNA Test Kit Reviews

Top Consumer Reviews Best-In-Class Blue Ribbon Award Cat DNA Test  Review 5 Star Rating

Cat DNA Test

5 Star Rating
  • Costs just $69.95 with a discount code
  • Test screens for over 120 common diseases and traits
  • Easy-to-use at-home kit
  • Promises high accuracy in test results
  • Results available within 14 business days
  • Provides a generous disputed results policy
  • Allows for refunds before lab receives samples
Top Consumer Reviews Best-In-Class Blue Ribbon Award

When it comes to My CatScan as a cat DNA test, there are a few players to be aware of, so that you can understand exactly who's involved. Neogen Corporation, a global leader in food and animal safety, announced a new partnership with the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) in 2023, a top authority in cat advocacy. They are working together to improve cat DNA testing services, particularly through Neogen's product, My CatScan. This collaboration is expected to advance DNA testing for cats and also strengthens the connection between Neogen and the cat-loving community. The CFA, which has been safeguarding and celebrating cats since 1906, continues to promote responsible cat ownership and proper care to cat owners worldwide through such partnerships.

Get a discount on My CatScan from the CFA

Cat DNA Test, a website hosted by the Cat Fanciers' Association, links to the My CatScan test at a different URL located at the bottom of the Cat DNA Test homepage. You may be asking, "So why aren't you directing me straight there?” We didn't think you'd want to miss out on the discount CFA offers. Currently, the code "IAMCFA” will get you $30 off - but if it changes in the future, you'll know to look at the Cat DNA Test page.

$69.95 to scan for 120 traits and diseases

With the discount, the My Cat Scan test drops from $99.95 to $69.95. That's fantastic considering the $120 to $150 that some competitors charge. This test is a handy and simple-to-use kit that lets you screen your cat's DNA at home for over 120 common diseases and traits. No need to visit a vet. You just use a cheek swab and send it back to their lab. They promise high accuracy and adhere to the same standards as human genetic tests. The company doesn't explicitly say which specific traits and diseases they scan for, but if you have questions, you should be able to get in touch with someone from their "outstanding customer care” team.

Best Cat DNA Test Kits

14 days until results

To purchase this cat DNA test, you'll need to create an account and then a profile for your cat: they'll need your cat's name, sex, breed, date of birth. If you don't know your cat's breed, you should be okay to choose "Other”. This company has one of the faster turnaround times in our review. In just 14 business days after your samples are received by the lab, you should have your cat's results in hand.

Generous "Disputed Results” policy

At My CatScan, your test's accuracy matters greatly. They aim for 100% precision and if you question your cat's results, they'll work hard to sort it out. If a test is unclear and a definitive result can't be given, they may ask for a new sample or give a partial credit depending on their work so far. Sometimes, test results can be unexpected due to a variety of factors such as untested inherited mutations, rare genomic variations, or issues with sample handling. If you feel something's off with your cat's results, get in touch with them right away. They'll re-evaluate everything, and if needed, re-test using a different method at no extra cost. If the error is on their part, they'll either refund you or give you a credit. Just remember, any claim should be made within 60 days of receiving your cat's results.

Refunds possible before lab receives samples

If you change your mind about your order, you can cancel it without any extra fees. However, remember that you can only cancel or change your order within 24 months from when you bought it. If the lab hasn't gotten your samples yet, you can ask for a refund. But once they receive your samples, you can't get a refund and the testing will go on as planned. Also, if the kits have already been sent out, you won't get your money back for shipping.

Best Cat DNA Test Kits

Rated well by customers

On Trustpilot, My CatScan has an average of 4.6 stars from just under 200 customer reviews. Customers say communication is great and that they were informed of the progress of their cat's sample all the way through the process. The results are supposedly easy to understand, too, although we wish there had been a sample available on the website.

Purr-fect score from us

By all accounts, the My CatScan test by Neogen is reliable, accurate, and fast. And for just $69.95, the price can't be beat. This product of this collaboration between Neogen and the Cat Fanciers' Association has earned the top spot in our review of cat DNA tests.

Where Can You Find the Best Cat DNA Tests?

Have you ever gazed into your cat's eyes and thought, "Who are you really, and how did you master the art of knocking things off tables with such precision?" If so, you're not alone in your curiosity. While it's a fun thought to imagine your cat as a descendant of some grand, exotic lineage, the truth is a bit more domestic.

Most cats are not directly related to purebreds since purebred cats make up less than 5% of the global cat population. Unlike dogs, where many can trace their lineage back to distinct breeds, most cats are descendants of a long line of domestic short, medium, or longhair cats. This doesn't make them any less noble, but it does challenge DNA tests that claim to pinpoint a specific breed heritage.

The Best Cat DNA Test Kits Compare Cat DNA Test Kits Compare Cat DNA Test Kit Reviews What are the best Cat DNA Test Kits Best Cat DNA Test Kit Reviews

Cat DNA Test Kit FAQ

The vast majority of companion cats are not pedigreed, so much of their genetic makeup remains a mystery unless it is tested. With a cat DNA test you'll learn their breed, breed group connections, personality traits, and potential health problems they may experience down the road. You'll gain greater insight into why your cat behaves the way it does and how to keep it happy and thriving.
Besides having a greater appreciation for where your cat comes from, one of the most significant benefits of a cat DNA test is screening for mutation carrier status and predisposition for diseases. Dental disease in particular is a reality for many cats, so understanding their oral and physical health will give you the chance to be proactive in their overall physical care. The results from the DNA test can be shared with your veterinarian so they know what diseases to look out for, when to create preventative plans, and discuss treatment options when necessary.
Not exactly. You'll always get basic information like your cat's breed from a DNA test, but not all companies look for the same genetic markers. Some might examine 115 markers, while another test will be slightly more extensive and look at 150. Some tests will give additional insight into parentage or other really specific health conditions like spinal muscular atrophy. You'll want to pick a company that offers the best value and tests for genetic conditions you have concerns about.
Collecting a DNA sample from your cat is one of the easiest parts of the whole process. Each kit comes with specific instructions, but typically you'll use a swab to swipe around the cheeks, gums, and teeth of your cat for about ten seconds. Then you'll carefully preserve the sample with the materials provided by the company and mail it back in to be analyzed.
On average, 4-6 weeks seems to be the typical amount of time it takes for you to get your results. However, some companies are a lot faster and claim that they will get your cat's DNA test information to you in as little as 10 days. Be sure to pay attention to the turnaround time listed by the company so you know what to expect.
Most companies will alert you by email once your results are available. You'll either get a comprehensive report in your inbox or a link to an online portal that deep dives into the information about your cat's breed, health markers, oral health condition, and more. If you have additional questions about what you learn, there are usually representatives from the company available to explain the report to you.
Customers should expect to pay anywhere from $45 for a very basic genetic panel to $150 for a comprehensive test that goes over a lot of genetic markers and comes with a thorough report. Each company's pricing is slightly different since not all tests are exactly the same and some include more than others. If you have more than one cat you're testing, most companies offer discounts when you purchase additional kits.
Many companies will give a statistic as to how accurate their test kits are. However, if you receive results that don't seem to match up with your cat, you should be able to contact the company and get your money back. Keep an eye out for a good satisfaction guarantee from the company you buy from. It also helps to review feedback from other customers who have purchased cat DNA tests from the company to make sure they have good things to say about the accuracy, value, and timeliness of the reports.
Compare the Best Reviews

Continued from above...

This means that when a cat DNA test throws up a specific breed result, take it with a grain of salt. However, it doesn't mean cat DNA tests are without merit. When it comes to proactively looking after your cat's health, these tests can be incredibly useful.

Cat DNA tests can identify genetic markers associated with diseases, which can be crucial for preventative care and management of potential health issues. For example, some cats are prone to genetic disorders like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, polycystic kidney disease, or even sensitivities to common medications. By identifying these markers early, a cat DNA test can be a powerful tool in preventative pet health care.

By understanding your cat's genetic predispositions, you can make the right choices for their diet, exercise, and environment and make better, more informed decisions in collaboration with your vet.

Here are some things to look for when selecting a cat DNA test:

  • Comprehensive health screenings. Prioritize tests that offer a detailed assessment of genetic health risks.
  • Realistic breed identification claims. Remember that breed results should be viewed with skepticism and are more for amusement than accuracy, given the mixed heritage of most cats.
  • Database size. A larger database of genetic traits and diseases improves the accuracy of health screenings. It enables the test to draw from a broader pool of genetic information, which improves the reliability of your cat's results.
  • Turnaround time. Some services deliver in a matter of business days, while others could take longer than a month or two. Look for a service that consistently delivers when it says it will.
  • Return policy and fees. Make sure you won't incur any fees for late submission of your test kit or for returns. Look for a company with a generous return policy that will work with you if you think your cat's results are wrong.

Getting a handle on these factors can help you pick the best DNA test for your feline friend, offering insights that are both eye-opening and useful. Here at Top Consumer Reviews, we've put Cat DNA Tests under the microscope and ranked the crème de la crème. We hope this review helps you zero in on the ultimate company that caters to both your curiosity and your care for your cat, guaranteeing dependable results paired with top-notch support.

The Best Reviews of Cat DNA Test Kits