College of Veterinary Medicine

Veterinary Cardiac Genetics Lab

Have Your Cat Tested for the Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Mutation


You have two methods to submit samples of your cat’s DNA for testing: Blood Draw or Cheek Swabs. Both sample types are generally processed within about 2 weeks.  


Order a Test Kit for Cheek Swabs  

How to Collect Cheek Swabs 

Blood Draw: One way to test your cat is to submit a small blood sample. Have your veterinarian or a veterinary technician collect a small blood sample (0.5 – 1.5 mls is plenty!) into an EDTA tube. Most veterinary hospitals have these readily available. Mail the blood sample with completed DNA Submission Forms (see details in the white box at the right of this page). There are no special shipping requirements.

Cheek Swab(s):
Another way to test your cat is to use cheek swabs. No special training is required to collect a swab sample. Cheek swab samples are obtained by brushing the cells inside the cat’s cheek with the swab. When you order a Test Kit from us, you will receive two swabs (per cat) and written instructions with photos that detail how to take this sample. Instructions are also available on this website.
 

DNA Submission Forms to be sent with Blood or Cheek Swab Samples    
Please complete, print & include the following TWO forms with the samples:

1. One copy for EACH cat tested

2. One payment form per owner

YOU MUST SUBMIT ONE FORM FOR EACH CAT BUT ONLY ONE PAYMENT FORM.


To Order a Cheek Swab Test Kit:

Use the Online Request for a Cheek Swab Test Kit

 

FAQs for Maine Coon Cats   

FAQs for Ragdoll Cats

OR

Contact the Washington State University Veterinary Cardiac Genetics Laboratory (WSU VCGL) to request a test kit. Send an email to VCGL@vetmed.wsu.edu that includes:

  1. Your name
  2. Your mailing address
  3. The number of cats to be tested
  4. How you would like to be notified (E-mail, FAX, or regular mail)
  5. Include email address if you wish to be notified by E-mail.

A test kit, which includes the sampling brushes and instructions for obtaining the sample will be mailed to you. Obtain the sample by brushing the inside of the cat's cheek and gum area. Mail the brush back to WSU VCPL along with payment for the test:

  • For 1-4 tests included in a single shipment the cost is $60 US Dollars per test
  • For 5 or more tests included in a single shipment a 15% discount will be applied for a cost of $51 US Dollars per test.
  • We can accept payment in US Dollars by check, money order, or credit card (MasterCard or Visa). Please do not send cash. Check currency exchange rates.

Test results will generally be available within two weeks.  Please indicate if you want to be notified of results by email, FAX, or regular mail.

Click for Printable Instructions for Use of the Test Kit.


Return the Samples
If time allows, let the brush air dry in a clean place for a few hours to overnight. Carefully replace the brush back into the package. Use a piece of tape to help keep the package closed if necessary, but do not seal tightly.

Send the sample brushes and payment (check, money order, or credit card) by regular mail. Be sure to include your contact information:

Cat Name
Owner/Veterinarian Name
Phone Number
e-mail

Send to:

Standard US Mail
Veterinary Cardiac Genetic Laboratory (VCGL)
Washington State University
Post Office Box 605
Pullman, WA 99163-0605
 
Shipments via FedEx or Other Carriers
Veterinary Cardiac Genetics Laboratory
Washington State University
Attn: Dr. Kathryn Meurs
100 Grimes Way
Pullman, WA 99164-7060


Phone/FAX  509-335-6038

Email  VCGL@vetmed.wsu.edu


* PCR for this service is performed pursuant to an agreement with Roche Molecular Systems, Inc.
US and foreign patents pending for HCM testing.

Last Edited: May 16, 2007 8:37 AM

Veterinary Cardiac Genetics Lab, PO Box 605 , Washington State University, Pullman WA 99163-0605, 509.335.6038, Contact Us   Safety Links