Gene-specific DNA-based tests for inherited diseases have been available for veterinary health care in cats for over 25 years, now over 40 genes with approximately 70 DNA variants have been documented to cause phenotypic, disease or blood type variations. More recently, the entire genomes of dozens of cats have been sequenced, rapidly gleaning the genetic information that is controlling health and what an animal looks like. In the coming years, veterinarians will be performing whole genome screens of some kind as a routine component of a disease diagnosis. Whether for tumors or other diseases, the DNA results will be what routinely direct future therapies. This project will attempt the first “Precision Medicine” trial in a domestic cat. The whole genome of an American shorthair cat that presented with neurological disease will be generated and compared to the 99 Lives Cat Genome Sequencing database in an effort to use an individual cat’s genetic signature to determine its course of health care.
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