# How do I collect a good DNA sample for my cat?

> Quickly inspect your cats mouth between their cheek and gums to make sure itrsquos clear of food debris To reduce the odds of finding food debris wait 

Source: https://kinship-wisdom.kustomer.help/en_us/how-do-i-collect-a-good-dna-sample-for-my-cat-ryt6IVaGo

Last updated: 2026-09-03T22:33:48.548Z

Quickly inspect your cat's mouth between their cheek and gums to make sure it’s clear of food debris. (To reduce the odds of finding food debris, wait to swab until at least two hours after your cat eats.)

  

Open the swab sleeve and remove the swabs—but avoid touching the applicator. Then, firmly roll and rotate the swab's applicator against the inside of your cat’s cheek. At the same time, use your other hand to gently apply pressure from the outside of your cat’s mouth (if possible) to ensure good contact between the cheek and swab. Allow the swabs to dry for approximately 30 minutes before returning them to the sleeve. A completely dry swab reduces the potential for bacterial growth which can degrade and cause the sample to fail.

  

Consider cat-friendly handling techniques, such as towel wrapping. And keep in mind, some cats do best when handled on the ground, whereas others may be more compliant on a counter-height surface. It takes two to tango, and sometimes it takes two to swab a cat. So, don’t be afraid to ask for help!

  

Even though 15 seconds is a short period, it can feel like an eternity. It’s fine to take short breaks when swabbing your cat’s cheek. For instance: swab for 2 seconds, pause for 5-10 seconds, and repeat for a combined total swabbing time of 10-15 seconds.