It’s becoming quite common for cat associations and registries to require that DNA testing samples be collected, and verified, by a veterinarian or other officially-recognised sample collector. This is to ensure the accuracy of both pedigree and health records.
What is sample verification?
In order to protect the accuracy of pedigrees, and to ensure recorded genetic disorder results are from the cat claimed, some registries want proof that the sample came from the cat in question. Breeders will typically bring a purchased Wisdom Panel™ breeder kit to an appointment with the official sample collector, or may schedule an appointment for the collector to visit their home for collection. The following core components of sample verification are:
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Sample Verification Form: often called a “vet sheet”, a Sample Verification Form is completed by the official sample collector, usually a veterinarian
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Attestation of identity: the collector has verified the identity of the cat at the time of collection using either the dog or cat’s microchip or tattoo
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DNA sample: MyCatDNA™, or Optimal Selection™ DNA sample collected by the official on behalf of the owner
In most cases, the official sample collector will also ship the sample to the laboratory to ensure a “chain of custody” for the sample, and to reduce the risk of contamination or a sample submission error. The breeder should keep the veterinary verification form to provide to their registry along with the results when completed, unless they are specifically instructed to do otherwise.
What happens to the sample verification form?
Some MyCatDNA™ partner cat associations require that the form be sent with the sample. These test kits are purchased directly through the registry, and instructions are provided at time of purchase. In these cases, the forms are kept on file by the registry.
For kits that are purchased directly from MyCatDNA™ or Optimal Selection™ websites, if you have a completed verification sheet, we recommend that you keep the vet sheet for your records, so that it can be provided to the registry if needed, once the results have been completed. Wisdom's sample verification sheet can be found here: https://www.wisdompanel.com/downloads/sample-verification.pdf
When is sample verification required?
It depends on whether the breeder intends to submit the results to their registry for recognition or registration purposes, or if the testing is strictly for personal use. For breeders purchasing testing kits through MyCatDNA™ or Optimal Selection™ websites, sample verification is often not needed. Wisdom Panel™ does not require sample verification for processing of samples, and does not report results on behalf of breeders unless purchased directly through the registry.
It is important before testing to verify what’s needed from your registry or association if you intend to report results. Check with your registry before sending in samples to make sure that the sample collection meets their requirements.
Happy swabbing!
