Questions about genetic testing

Which sample material is suitable for the genetic detection of a hereditary disease or coat trait?

DNA from the animal to be tested is always the basis for PCR detection. An EDTA blood sample (0.5 – 1 ml) is best suited for purifying the DNA, as a large amount of cell material from the animal is available here.

In principle, it is also possible to use two buccal swabs. For this purpose, a sterile cotton swab is rubbed vigorously on the inside of the cheek. The swab should then be dried to avoid mould and sent in a tube without medium (no liquids or agar).

When using swabs, please ensure that the animal in question has not eaten for 1-2 hours and has not been in contact with other animals to avoid contamination that could affect the result of the test.

Can a genetic test also be carried out on a breed that is not listed for the test?

In principle, the detection of a certain mutation can be carried out in all animals of a species.

However, the significance of a test is weak as long as it is not scientifically described that there is a correlation between a genetic change and symptoms of a disease or to a trait.

We therefore recommend a genetic test only for those breeds in which this correlation exists.