Genetic identity test based on microsatellite markers (STR) that generates a unique fingerprint for each cat. It allows the identity of an individual to be confirmed unequivocally and forms the basis on which parentage tests rest. It does not detect diseases or colour variants: its usefulness is strictly identificatory and genealogical. It is the recommended complement to any rigorous pedigree registry and to chain-of-custody controls in catteries.

Applicable to all cat breeds and to the common domestic cat without exception. The discriminating power varies according to the number and polymorphism of the markers used by each laboratory. Limited data on the comparative coverage of the commercial panels available in Spain.

- Not applicable (identification test, not diagnostic)

DNA typing by microsatellites became established in veterinary medicine during the 1990s, adapting to the cat the STR panels initially developed for dogs and livestock. Menotti-Raymond's group published the first standardised feline STR panels in the late 1990s (Menotti-Raymond et al. 1999, PMID 10191079), laying the foundation of individual genetic identity. The International Society for Animal Genetics (ISAG) has updated the recommended marker combinations for felids at successive interlaboratory comparison workshops. In Spain its use has become widespread in pedigree catteries and in the studbooks of feline associations. The incorporation of additional markers has progressively increased the discriminating power of commercial panels.

- Keep the DNA profile of all breeding animals in the cattery, preferably from the first year of life
- Repeat sampling if there is a discrepancy between declared parentage and genetic parentage
- Request the profile before mating to rule out identity confusion or litter swaps
- Require the laboratory to have accreditation and chain-of-evidence custody when the result is to have registral value

The discriminating power depends on the number and polymorphism of the STRs used; a reduced panel can give false matches between related individuals. Always verify that the laboratory works with accreditation and chain-of-evidence custody when the result is to have legal or registral value. The fingerprint does not replace a targeted paternity test when a specific sire is to be assigned.

1. Menotti-Raymond M, David VA, Lyons LA, et al. (1999) A genetic linkage map of microsatellites in the domestic cat (Felis catus). Genomics 57:9-23. PMID: 10191079
2. Menotti-Raymond MA, David VA, Wachter LL, et al. (2005) An STR forensic typing system for genetic individualization of domestic cat (Felis catus) samples. J Forensic Sci 50:1061-1070. PMID: 16225210
3. Coomber N, David VA, O'Brien SJ, Menotti-Raymond M. (2007) Validation of a short tandem repeat multiplex typing system for genetic individualization of domestic cat samples. Croat Med J 48:523-533. PMID: 17696310
4. Menotti-Raymond M, David VA, Weir BS, O'Brien SJ. (2012) A population genetic database of cat breeds developed in coordination with a domestic cat STR multiplex. J Forensic Sci 57:626-637. PMID: 22268511