Ground-Breaking Feline Studies

Morris Animal Foundation is funding scientists who are using cutting-edge technologies to change the way veterinarians diagnose and treat cats. In one study, Dr. Steven Dow of Colorado State University is evaluating the effectiveness of mesenchymal stem cell therapy to treat cats with chronic kidney disease. This therapy has been successful in reversing and stabilizing kidney function in rodents with renal disease, and Dr. Dow hopes the same is true for cats. If these studies generate positive data, the results will have a significant impact on the development of new ways to manage feline CKD.

Another study is looking for ways to prevent cytauxzoonosis, a life-threatening disease in cats caused by the Cytauxzoon felis parasite, which is transmitted by ticks. Without proper diagnosis and treatment, the mortality rate for infected cats is 97%; even with the best available treatment, about 40% of infected cats will die. Researchers believe a vaccination is the only practical control strategy, and scientists at North Carolina State University, let by Dr. Adam Birkenheuer, are conducting a study to help identify which genes are the best vaccine candidates. www.morrisanimalfoundation.org

Categories: What's New

The AW Academy Team

AW ACADEMY is a natural extension of our 25 years of experience publishing Animal Wellness, Equine Wellness and Innovative Veterinary Care Journal. We believe that everyone has a responsibility to care for animals to the best of their ability utilizing the most natural and minimally invasive means possible. We feel strongly that it’s better to promote a preventative healthy lifestyle for our pets instead of taking a wait-and-see approach. We also fiercely advocate for the quality of animals’ lives, supporting animal rescues and welfare organizations both financially and through our editorial.

View All Posts

Understanding Gene–Environment Interactions in Canine Behavior: Insights from a Large-Scale Study

Dogs occupy a unique position among domesticated species: they are evolutionarily adapted to live alongside humans, yet this close relationship

3 Common Dental Issues in Dogs

Dog parents want the best for our furry family members. But did you know that dental health plays a huge

Ozonated Water as a Presurgical Antiseptic

Maintaining optimal presurgical skin antisepsis is a cornerstone of infection control in veterinary surgery. As antimicrobial resistance and environmental sustainability

Get to the Root of Microbiome Dysbiosis in Dogs and Cats with Advanced Testing Solutions

Discover how microbiome and other testing can help you identify and treat the myriad causes of dysbiosis in dogs and

Your Cat May Want to Escape the House This Holiday Season

The holidays bring excitement, visitors, and lots of activity to your home. While this makes for wonderful memories, all the

How 6 science-backed mobility ingredients are supercharging 1 joint health supplement

Introducing a next-generation mobility supplement designed to support canine joint health, reduce inflammation, and improve flexibility with clinically proven ingredients.