How to DNA Test Cattle

DNA analyses on beef cattle or any other animal require trained laboratory technicians. But almost anyone, after some practice, can collect the necessary samples. Types of samples include hair, blood, skin tissue and semen. Blood samples are preferred by most laboratories, as they are considered more reliable. Sample collection kits and sampling instructions can be obtained from the testing laboratories. Some of the clearest instructions are available from MMI Genomics and include photographs demonstrating the methodology. These instructions can also be obtained from the Piedmontese Breed Association.

Things You'll Need

  • Laboratory list
  • Sample collection kit
  • Sampling instructions
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Instructions

    • 1

      Obtain a list of qualified beef cattle DNA analysis laboratories from your breed association. Interview a few of the laboratories and determine who you want to analyze your samples. Select a laboratory and request a sample collection kit for each animal to be tested.

    • 2

      Take the blood-spot card from the sample collection kit. This is a folded card resembling a match book and usually bears a trademark of the laboratory, such as MicroCard or FTA. Write the animal's identification number on the card. The identification can be a tag, a tattoo or a registration number.

    • 3

      Remove the kit's hypodermic needle from its plastic cover, hold the animal's ear by the tip and use the needle to pierce the ear's topside two or three times. The piercings should be about one-eighth of an inch apart.

    • 4

      Wait five to 10 seconds after the piercings for drops of blood to form. Unfold the blood-spot card and place the circle against a drop of blood. The blood should fill at least half of the circle to obtain an adequate sample. If enough blood is not obtained, repeat the sampling procedure on the underside of the ear. Avoid making the card soggy from too much blood and be sure the blood has dried before you fold the card.

    • 5

      Discard the used needle and enter the requested information on the sample submission form. Match the ID number on the blood-spot card with the number on the submission form and ship the two documents together.