DNA & genetic tests
Pricing
Incl. VAT

48.4

Excl. VAT

40

Dominant blue eyes / DBE 4 variants (PAX3-related) - Cat

DNA test for four PAX3 variants that can cause dominant blue eyes, heterochromia and minimal white spotting in cats.

Turnaround time
10 workdays
test Methods
Sequencing
Test code
PVT-505F7D1D5434
Species
Cat
Matrices
Blood, Blood (EDTA), Blood (Heparin), Swab, Tissue

Overview

Dominant blue eyes in cats

This genetic test analyses four variants in PAX3 involved in dominant blue eyes, also known as DBE. The trait may appear as two blue eyes, one blue and one pigmented eye, or partly coloured eyes, often together with minimal to more visible white spotting.

PAX3 is involved in pigment-cell development. Variants in this gene can influence pigmentation of the iris, skin and coat. Deafness has been described or suspected in certain DBE lines, while other variants are less linked with deafness in heterozygous cats.

Four PAX3 variants

  • DBE^RE - Rociri Elvis Dominant Blue Eyes, PAX3 c.937C>T.
  • DBE^CEL - Celestial Dominant Blue Eyes, intronic PAX3 LTR insertion.
  • DBE^ALT - Altai Dominant Blue Eyes, intronic PAX3 LTR insertion.
  • DBE^AGO - Agostino Dominant Blue Eyes, PAX3 c.160del.

Practical value of this test

  • Helps clarify whether blue eyes or heterochromia are caused by one of the tested PAX3 variants.
  • Supports breeders in planning matings and avoiding unwanted risks.
  • Distinguishes different DBE lineages that can look very similar.

Reference samples for further development

We welcome reference samples from cats with clear dominant blue eyes, heterochromia or related markings, especially when none of the tested variants is found. These samples help identify additional causal variants for this trait and refine the test further.

Included subanalyses

This analysis includes the following subanalyses:

  • Dominant blauwe ogen DBE^AGO (Agostino Dominant Blue Eyes) - Cat
  • Dominant blauwe ogen DBE^ALT (Altai Dominant Blue Eyes) - Cat
  • Dominant blauwe ogen DBE^CEL (Celestial Dominant Blue Eyes) - Cat
  • Dominant blauwe ogen DBE^RE (Rociri Elvis Dominant Blue Eyes) - Cat

Allele combinations & result interpretations

Sampling and submission guidelines

References