DNA Tests vs. Pedigree: Understanding the Difference
Some families run consumer DNA tests like Wisdom Panel or Basepaws on their kittens and are surprised to see results showing their cat as “only part Siberian.”
We completely understand how confusing that can feel—especially after investing in a pedigreed Siberian kitten. The truth is: our kittens are legitimate, pedigreed Siberians. Here’s why those DNA results don’t tell the full story.
🧬 What Cat DNA Tests Actually Measure
DNA tests for cats are designed for entertainment and general ancestry insights, not to verify breed purity or pedigree.
These tests compare your cat’s genes to a limited database of breed markers. Because the Siberian is a relatively young and genetically diverse breed, its full DNA profile isn’t always well represented.
That means results can show a mix of other longhaired breeds like Persian, Ragdoll, or Toybob. These breeds share similar ancient genetic origins with Siberians, so the software may label parts of your cat’s genetic code as belonging to those breeds.
For example, a test might show:
- 42% Siberian
- 25% Persian
- 14% Toybob
- 12% Ragdoll
- 7% Domestic Longhair
This does not mean your kitten is only “42% Siberian.” It simply reflects overlapping genetic heritage shared among longhaired breeds.
📜 What “Pedigree” Really Means
A pedigree is proven through documented lineage—not DNA percentages.
Pedigree records are maintained by official cat registries, including:
- The International Cat Association (TICA) https://tica.org/breeds/browse-all-breeds?view=article&id=868:siberian-breed&catid=79
- The Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) https://cfa.org/understanding-pedigree-vs-dna-testing/
These organizations track generations of registered Siberians, verifying that each kitten descends from purebred Siberian parents.
When you purchase from Magic Siberians, you receive this official documentation from TICA.org as proof of authenticity. This paperwork—allows you to order your kitten’s pedigree at TICA.org if you choose to— which is the recognized gold standard worldwide for determining breed purity.
📚 Learn More
Here are some trusted resources that explain these differences in more detail:
- https://www.catster.com/cat-health-care/are-cat-dna-tests-accurate/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
- https://www.aspcapetinsurance.com/resources/pet-dna-tests/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
💛 The Bottom Line
Your Magic Siberians kitten is 100% pedigreed and authentically Siberian.
Consumer DNA tests can provide fun insights into a cat’s distant ancestry—but they don’t determine or define breed status.
Every kitten from Magic Siberians comes from registered Siberian parents with verified lineage, ensuring the health, temperament, and authenticity this incredible breed is known for.