At-Home Pet DNA & Sensitivity Testing FAQs
Collect at home. Return by SF Express. Laboratory analysis.
Understand the pet DNA and sensitivity testing process before you begin
Our test kits let you collect a sample from your cat or dog at home and return it according to the enclosed instructions. This guide covers age, sample collection, return shipping, reports and sensitivity testing.
- From 3 months oldMost pets can begin testing
- About 30 working daysAfter a valid sample is received
- Chinese report by defaultRequest English in advance
Frequently asked questions
1. Which tests are available?
The main options are DNA testing and sensitivity testing. DNA kits can cover health and nutrition, disease risk, inherited conditions, traits and breed identification. Current kits may include about 190 canine items or 46 feline items. Sensitivity kits can cover a range of food and environmental items. The exact scope and item count depend on the product selected and the final report.
2. How old should my pet be?
Most cats and dogs can be tested from 3 months old. If your pet is receiving treatment, has recently had a blood transfusion or has a special medical condition, contact us or your veterinarian before collecting a sample.
3. What sample is required for DNA and sensitivity testing?
DNA testing generally uses an oral-cell sample collected as directed by the kit. The upgraded sensitivity test continues to use a hair sample. Requirements can vary between products, so always use the tools and instructions supplied with your kit.
4. Can I collect the sample at home?
Yes. Check the details, follow the collection instructions, seal the sample and complete the required form. You do not need to take your pet to the laboratory. To reduce contamination, avoid touching the collection tip and follow any food or cleaning preparation stated in the kit.
5. How do I return the sample by SF Express?
A return envelope is included in the box. Place the sealed sample and required form inside, then hand it to SF Express using the recipient details on the envelope. Keep the tracking number. Shipping charges and arrangements follow the instructions in the kit and SF Express's actual charges.
6. How long does the report take?
The report normally takes about 30 working days after the laboratory receives a valid sample. We will notify you if it is ready earlier. If the sample is insufficient, contaminated or must be recollected, the processing period restarts after a new valid sample is received.
7. Is the report in Chinese or English?
Reports are issued in Chinese by default. If you need an English report, contact us and state the request clearly before returning the sample. The language may not be changeable after report preparation has begun.
8. Can the test cover food sensitivities?
Yes. You can select a kit that includes food-related sensitivity items to help identify ingredients worth monitoring. Results are a risk-management reference and are not a veterinary allergy diagnosis. Seek veterinary care promptly if your pet has an acute reaction, persistent itching, digestive problems or other symptoms.
9. Is testing performed in Hong Kong, and what accreditations apply?
Samples are handled by a Hong Kong laboratory team using relevant international data and analytical methods. Accreditation information includes ISO/IEC 17025:2017 and ISO 9001:2015. Contact us before purchase if you need the latest certificates, scope or information for a particular test.
10. How accurate is the test?
For a valid sample and an applicable test item, the reference accuracy of DNA genotyping can exceed 98%. Health risks, breed estimates and sensitivity findings are still affected by sample quality, database coverage, genetic variation and analytical methods, and do not guarantee future health outcomes.
11. What happens if the sample is invalid or the form is incorrect?
The laboratory may request recollection or additional information, depending on the sample and kit terms. Before shipping, check the pet name, breed, age, contact details and sample label carefully to avoid delays.
12. Can the report replace a veterinary diagnosis?
No. DNA and sensitivity reports support health management, diet planning and conversations with your veterinarian. They are not a medical diagnosis, treatment recommendation or disease guarantee. Medication, diet and treatment changes should be decided by a registered veterinarian based on your pet's condition.
Ready to choose the right test for your pet?
Compare DNA, health-risk and sensitivity kits before selecting one for your pet.
