What Makes Cats Purr? Scientists May Have Found the Gene Behind It
Whether you are lucky enough to have a cat companion or must merely live this experience vicariously through cat videos, Felis catus is a familiar and comforting presence in our daily lives. Unlike most other feline species, cats exhibit sociality, can live in groups, and communicate both with other cats and humans, which is why they have been humans' trusted accomplices for millennia.
Renal transporter genes and uremic toxins in aging cats with chronic kidney disease
This study, led by researchers Qinghong Li, James A. Holzwarth, Bethany Smith, Sonia Karaz, Mathieu Membrez, Vincenzo Sorrentino, Stacie Summers, Julie Spears, and Eugenia Migliavacca from Nestlé Purina Research and Oregon State University, explores how aging affects kidney function in cats with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The researchers found that older cats have lower levels of important kidney transporter genes, which usually help remove harmful waste products from the blood. These findings could help veterinarians better understand CKD in aging cats and offer insights that may be relevant to human kidney health.
Exploring Nephrocalcinosis in Cats with Chronic Kidney Disease: Risk Factors and Clinical Implications
This study led by Dr. Pak-Kan Tang explores nephrocalcinosis in cats with chronic kidney disease (CKD), revealing its prevalence and association with disease progression. The research identifies risk factors for ultrasound-diagnosed nephrocalcinosis and highlights its implications on CKD management. Key findings underscore the importance of early detection and management of nephrocalcinosis in feline patients, offering valuable insights for veterinary practitioners.
Unraveling Blood Pressure Mysteries in Hyperthyroid Cats: Insights from a Pioneering Study
In a groundbreaking exploration of feline health, a team of researchers led by Lisa Stammeleer from the University of Ghent embarked on a journey to decode the complexities surrounding blood pressure changes in hyperthyroid cats post-radioiodine treatment. Their study, which meticulously examined 401 hyperthyroid nonazotemic cats, utilized a blend of cross-sectional and before-and-after approaches to thoroughly evaluate systolic blood pressure (SBP) using Doppler technology.
New publication describes findings on cat evolution, to aid in future disease studies
Morris Animal Foundation-funded researchers have delved into various cat species' entire DNA sequence (genome), uncovering novel perspectives on domestic and wild cat evolution. This new work highlights distinct genetic changes and will be a critical tool for researchers investigating feline diseases and characteristics.
Improving the quality of life for cats with renal disorders
Many cats develop chronic renal disorders as they age. As chronic renal disorders progress, the secretion of erythropoietin (EPO)(1), a hematopoietic factor produced in the kidneys, is decreased, which causes renal anemia