First Ever DNA Test for Cats Hopes to Prevent Health Issues in Felines

Published A Few Days Ago
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Basepaws, a genetic startup from California, became the first company to offer direct-to-consumer DNA testing for cats. Their goal? To improve the health and wellbeing of our feline friends.

With all the rapid science and technology advancements, it’s no wonder that our pets are feeling the benefits of progress as well. For some time now, dog owners have been able to get DNA tests for their pets and learn more about their family tree and unique qualities. Of course, this turned out to be a fantastic preventive tool; as it could help owners adjust their pet’s care to improve their health and work towards improving their quality of life and even lifespan itself. Now, cat owners don’t have to feel left out anymore, as they’re getting the same opportunity- for the first time ever.

Basepaws, a genetic startup from California, will reveal their innovative genetic testing platform and DNA kit at this year’s CES. Their goal is to create a comprehensive, go-to source about feline genetics. In turn, this would help our kitty companions live healthier, happier, and longer lives. There’s still much we don’t know about feline genes, and Basepaws is looking to change that for good. By getting your pet’s DNA tested, you’ll not only get information about the breed(s) of their ancestors, both wild and domestic, and if they’re any abnormalities in few of the important genes.

The test itself is quite non-invasive. All they need is some of your kitty’s hair (and let’s face it, there’s plenty of that to go around!), collected with an adhesive they provide and- voila. You send it in an envelope and wait for the results.

As the biobank grows and more information is collected, Basepaws will be able to give you tailored insight into your pet’s genetic uniqueness. You can expect to find out about their predisposition to certain illnesses, inherited personality, and physical traits. To boot, you’ll even get customized recommendations for best nutrition or products for your cat’s unique needs. The company expects all of this information will be available as early as this year.

Until we’re able to find out what our kitties REALLY need through genetic testing, we can stick to the tried-and-true options. Just give them their fave treats, let them boss you around, and continue picking up their barf after them. Easy peasy!

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