Can DNA testing help to keep your pet healthy?

A recent study of ancient cat DNA showed that these felines have lived alongside humans for more than 3,000 years. But while the idea of cats cohabiting with people has been around for millennia, testing a cat's DNA to find out more about their breed is relatively new.

Unlike dogs, there are also fairly few cat breeds in existence – fewer than 30 major breeds, compared with more than 200 dog breeds. And most feline purebreeds are less than 100 years old, meaning there are fewer 'perfect' DNA markers that identification kits can work with.

But that doesn't mean a DNA test doesn't have its benefits, and it can still give you vital clues when it comes to caring for your cat. Only by knowing her breed(s) can you make sure to pay attention to, and even prevent, certain conditions she may be prone to.

So far, around 250 hereditary diseases have been identified for cats and, because purebred cats come from a smaller gene pool, they can be at higher risk of contracting them. While a DNA test can never replace a diagnosis by your vet, knowing what's in your cat's genes means you can look for symptoms more effectively. For example, polycystic kidney disease (one of the most common hereditary diseases) disproportionally affects Persian cats. Many other breeds are more susceptible to heart disease such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, eye conditions like progressive retinal atrophy, and diabetes.

While DNA testing for cats is growing, there are currently only a few reputable firms on the market. Which test you choose also depends entirely on what you'd like to find out about your cat. Some tests will simply identify the breed (and wildcat) genes present in your pet's make-up, but others can offer tests for genetic diseases and traits – which is always useful to know alongside your annual health checks.

If you're unsure which option to go for, contact the company before buying a kit and make sure to question them about their database, as well as how their pricing works.