Is there human DNA on cats

The transfer, persistence, prevalence, and recovery of DNA (DNA-TPPR) can be highly relevant in forensic investigations to evaluate the presence and/or actions of a person of interest (POI). Whilst the DNA-TPPR-related research has increased significantly over the last decade, there is a lack of data on companion animals and their relationship to human DNA transfer. Given the commonality of cats and dogs in households around the world, companion animals as receptors and vectors for DNA transfer can be highly relevant in cases involving animals as victims of a criminal offense, or cases requiring activity level evaluations. Samples were collected from an external area on the right side of 20 cats to determine the prevalence and sources of human DNA on this area. Preliminary data shows that human DNA is present on household cats, its source is mainly from household inhabitants. Further studies are required to elucidate the means and level of transfer of human DNA to and from cats and other household animals. This knowledge can be relevant to sample targeting in specific case circumstances and/or when considering possible means of the presence of a person’s DNA at the crime scene location.