Testing Royal Canin’s Genetic Health Analysis Kit for Cats: Discovering My Cat’s Unique DNA

Working with Wisdom Panel technology, Royal Canin’s Genetic Health Analysis Kits give pet owners the tools to unlock their cat’s DNA to learn about ancestry information, breed reporting, and specific genetic markers that can inform their care and nutrition. As I know from personal experience with my three cats, pet owners want what is best for their cats, and this kit can help us understand just what our cats need more clearly. I want my cats to stay happy and healthy, so any information that can assist in that goal is something I want to know!

*This post is sponsored by Royal Canin.

Table of Contents:

How the Royal Canin Genetic Health Analysis Test Works 

A simple process by design, these Genetic Health Analysis Kits have everything you need for the test. A veterinarian collects your cat’s DNA via a simple cheek swab. Going to the vet can be stressful, but I have some tips on making the trip go more smoothly here.

Once the swab is taken by the vet, they will activate the kit online and send the sample to a lab for analysis.

Once the sample arrives at the lab, it takes about four weeks to get your cat’s results. The comprehensive report of your cat’s DNA is then sent to you and your vet for review. From there, your vet can help decide on a customized health and wellness plan based on your cat’s unique results. 

What the Genetic Health Analysis Can Tell You About Your Cat

This simple kit offers a variety of insights into your cat’s DNA, including their ancestry and breed breakdown, genetic markers that can indicate predispositions to certain health conditions, and even your cat’s genetic blood type. All of this information can help you and your vet understand your cat’s personalized nutritional and health care needs.

Breed Identification

Royal Canin’s Genetic Health Analysis Kit can determine a cat’s ancestry with 1% breed reporting precision. This is done by comparing your cat’s test sample to the unique genetic signatures of over 70 different cat breeds.

This information is more than just fun trivia; it can help you understand behavioral traits and specific nutritional needs pertinent to your cat.

Health Predispositions & Blood Types

With this simple cheek swab test, Royal Canin is able to screen your cat for genetic markers that indicate possible predispositions to different health conditions and traits. Knowing this information early can help you plan your cat’s care accordingly, and it can even inform their nutritional needs. The test currently reports on more than 45 health conditions in cats, so a wide range of issues is covered.

Furthermore, understanding your cat’s genetic blood type is good information to have on hand, especially in the event of a blood transfusion or similar procedures.

How This Genetic Analysis Can Inform Your Cat’s Care

Information is power, especially when it comes to cats. Cats are notoriously good at hiding illness or pain, so understanding their DNA can help you and your vet create customized care plans that are tailored to your specific cat’s needs.

Furthermore, through an appropriate diet, you can help give your cat the nutrition they need to thrive, taking the guesswork out of it for you!

My Personal Experience with Royal Canin’s Genetic Health Analysis Kit for Cats

Getting the cheek swabs taken for my three cats was a straightforward process. I made an appointment with my vet’s office and explained the purpose of the visit over the phone. The receptionist made a note of this, and the office was all set to take the samples when we arrived with the cats.

The process once we got to the vet’s office was quick and easy. The cheek swab samples were taken with a small brush and were a minimally invasive procedure; my cats weren’t bothered by them at all!

Then, the vet set aside the samples to dry according to the Genetic Health Analysis Kit’s directions. Once all three swab sets were taken, the vet packaged the samples (ensuring that each cat’s samples were in the corresponding kit) and sealed the kits for shipment. The office sent the kits out with their mail and we were all set!

My Cats’ GHA Kit Results

I have to be honest; I was anxious about getting the results. While I was eager to learn about potential health issues so we could prepare, it can be a lot to consider. However, during the waiting period, I reminded myself that the anxiety is worth it if it helps us better care for the cats.

Fortunately, all three results came back with zero health condition risks detected. The reports for each cat are detailed, listing the genetic conditions, gene titles, risk variants, mode of inheritance, and results. It was fascinating to see the suggested food recommendations tailored to their specific results!

Beyond the health conditions tested, I was eager to see the breeds that contributed to my three rescue cats and the interesting traits identified by the tests.

My Cats’ Breed Results & Interesting Traits

The breed results were categorized by region, detailing the major breeds. Their information was organized into a family tree, extending back four generations!

Louis’ Breed Results

Louis’ results detected 8 distinct cat breeds. Most notably, his results indicated a strong presence of American Domestic Cat genes, which was expected. The surprising inclusion of Siberian and Persian genes at notable percentages was interesting. I struggle to see any obvious Persian traits, although he does exhibit some similar features to Siberians, such as dark eyeliner. Additionally, the Siamese and Oriental genes may account for his prominent ears.

Key genetic traits of Louis:

• Solid Color Coat Variant: 1 Copy – This may explain the tabby patterns in his coat.
• Partial and Full White Coat Variant: 1 Copy – Likely resulting in his white stomach and paws.
• Polydactyly Variant 1: 1 Copy – This gene causes extra toes; Louis has this on his front paws.

Olivia’s Breed Results

Olivia’s results revealed 8 distinct cat breeds. The high presence of American Domestic Cat DNA made sense while the inclusion of Scottish Fold and British Shorthair genes was a pleasant surprise. Upon researching these breeds, I noticed similarities in color and markings between them and Olivia.

Key genetic traits of Olivia:

• Solid Color Coat Variant: 1 Copy – Similar to Louis, this likely results in her tabby patterns.
• Dilution: 2 Copies – This gene likely lightens her coat color.
• Colorpoints: 1 Copy – May result in subtle darker markings around her ears and tail.
• Polydactyly Variant 1: 1 Copy – Similar to Louis, though in Olivia, it’s visible on all four paws.

Emory’s Breed Results

Emory’s results identified 5 distinct breeds in her DNA. The predominance of American Domestic Cat genes did not surprise me. Curiously, her results also highlighted her European Domestic Cat ancestry, which was absent in Louis or Olivia. It’s fascinating to consider how their ancestors may have found their way to local pet rescues!

Key genetic traits of Emory:

• Solid Color Coat Variant: 1 Copy – Likely responsible for her subtle tabby stripes.
• Partial and Full White Coat Variant: 1 Copy – This contributes to the white portions in Emory’s coat.
• Dilution: 2 Copies – Affects her coat’s color and subtle markings.
• Colorpoints: 1 Copy – May account for the color-block appearance of her coat.

Conclusion: Why a Genetic Health Analysis of Your Cat is So Valuable

As I mentioned above, cats excel at hiding discomfort or illness. As dedicated pet owners, it is our goal to ensure their happiness and health. Royal Canin’s Genetic Health Analysis Kit for Cats is an invaluable resource to help achieve this objective. The insights provided by these kits complement regular veterinary visits.

This kit empowers cat owners to implement early detection and preventative strategies rather than simply addressing issues after they’ve arisen. Additionally, the insights can guide adjustments to our cats’ routines to fit their specific needs—whether it’s diet, exercise, or other aspects of care. With your vet also receiving a copy of the information, annual visits become more personalized to meet your cat’s individual lifestyle and health requirements.

All cats are unique, and so are their needs. Through Royal Canin’s Genetic Health Analysis Kit for Cats, we can celebrate that uniqueness and ensure our beloved companions live their best lives.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the Royal Canin Genetic Health Analysis Kit?

The Royal Canin Genetic Health Analysis Kit is a DNA testing tool designed for cats, offering insights into their ancestry, breed composition, health predispositions, and specific nutritional needs.

2. How is the DNA sample collected?

The DNA sample is collected using a simple and non-invasive cheek swab performed by a veterinarian during a regular visit.

3. How long does it take to receive results?

Once the sample is sent to the lab, it typically takes around four weeks to receive the results.

4. What kind of information will I receive from the analysis?

The analysis provides detailed reports on breed identification, health predispositions, genetic markers, and suggested dietary recommendations tailored to your cat’s specific needs.

5. Why is knowing my cat’s breed important?

Understanding your cat’s breed can help you tailor their care and nutrition based on their unique genetic traits, which may influence their health requirements and behaviors.