DNA & Health Testing
DNA & Health Testing — How I Build This Program
This page explains how I use testing, veterinary care, and real-world observation to keep CWPX cats as healthy as
possible. It’s not marketing fluff; it’s the framework I actually use.
What I Test For (DNA)
I use multi-panel DNA testing through reputable labs to screen for known inherited conditions in cats. Panels can
evolve over time, but they typically include:
- Common inherited cardiac conditions (where validated tests exist).
- Breed-relevant genetic diseases identified in the current panels.
- Color and trait markers for program planning (not novelty).
I’m less interested in novelty traits and more focused on a clean, reliable health baseline. If a test result
raises a red flag, that cat is not moved forward in the breeding program.
Infectious Disease & Screening
DNA is one layer. Infectious disease control is the daily reality. I work with my vet team to screen and monitor
for issues that can impact kittens, adults, and multi-cat households.
- Testing protocols for new cats before integration into the home.
- Monitoring for respiratory, gastrointestinal, and skin issues.
- Quarantine practices if anything concerning appears.
I treat “something feels off” as data, not drama. The point of a health program is not to pretend problems can’t
exist — it’s to identify and respond to them quickly and honestly.
Vet Care & Preventive Medicine
Testing means very little without actual veterinary partnership. CWPX cats are seen by licensed veterinarians for:
- Routine wellness exams.
- Vaccinations based on current recommendations and real risk.
- Spay/neuter surgeries for pet placements.
- Diagnostics and imaging when something isn’t adding up.
I’m not here to argue with your vet via Google screenshots. I use professionals, and I expect adopters to have a
vet relationship before a kitten ever comes home.
How Health Impacts Placement Decisions
Health status directly influences who breeds, who shows, and who is placed as a companion with a different
expectation. In practice, that means:
- Cats with concerning test results or health histories do not move forward as breeding animals.
- Kittens with minor cosmetic issues can still be incredible pets — with full disclosure.
- I will scale back or pause breeding if health patterns raise questions.
Health before hype
Real-world observation matters
How This Relates to You as a Buyer
As a pet or show home, what you should take from this page is simple: I’m paying attention. I’m testing. I’m
tracking outcomes over time. And I’m willing to make uncomfortable decisions if it protects the cats.
You still need a vet. You still need to show up, feed well, keep the environment safe, and bring your cat in when
something changes. A good cattery can build a strong starting point; you carry it the rest of the way.
own health and testing approach. I’m only interested in programs with equal or higher standards.