New Study Suggests Cats Develop Dementia in a Similar Way to Humans — Here’s Why That Matters

A recent study conducted by the University of Edinburgh has shed light on the possibility of cats developing dementia in a manner similar to humans. The implications of this study could have a significant impact on both feline and human health. The findings suggest that cats may exhibit signs of dementia such as confusion, disrupted sleep, and increased vocalization, or meowing, which are indicative of a buildup of the toxic protein amyloid-beta in their brains. This protein is also commonly found in the brains of humans suffering from dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, highlighting a striking parallel in the progression of these conditions in both species.

The research team at the University of Edinburgh examined the brains of 25 cats postmortem, some of which had displayed symptoms of dementia while alive. The discovery of amyloid-beta accumulation in the brains of cats with dementia opens up new possibilities for Alzheimer’s research. Traditionally, studies on Alzheimer’s have heavily relied on genetically modified rodents, which do not naturally develop the disease. By studying animals like cats that naturally exhibit dementia, researchers may gain deeper insights and potentially accelerate advancements in the field.

Dr. Robert McGeachan, the lead author of the study from the University of Edinburgh’s Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, emphasized the significance of these findings. He highlighted the similarities between feline dementia and Alzheimer’s disease in humans, indicating a promising avenue for exploring potential treatments that could benefit both ageing pets and humans. The natural development of dementia-related brain changes in cats offers a more accurate model for studying the disease, which could ultimately lead to improved care for both species and their caregivers.

Professor Danièlle Gunn-Moore, Chair of Feline Medicine at the University of Edinburgh, expressed optimism about the implications of the study. She emphasized the distress caused by feline dementia and the importance of understanding how best to address it. Establishing feline dementia as a natural model for Alzheimer’s could pave the way for advancements in treatment that benefit not only cats and their owners but also individuals affected by Alzheimer’s and their loved ones. This collaborative approach to research could yield significant benefits for all parties involved.

The study’s findings have opened up new avenues for potential cross-species research that could have far-reaching implications for both feline and human health. By recognising the similarities in the development of dementia between cats and humans, researchers may be better equipped to explore innovative treatment strategies for both species. The potential for shared advancements in Alzheimer’s research could mark a pivotal moment in the quest for effective treatments and improved care for individuals and their animal companions who are affected by dementia.

As the scientific community delves deeper into the connections between feline and human health, the implications of this study may pave the way for a more holistic approach to tackling dementia-related conditions. By leveraging the natural model of feline dementia, researchers can potentially accelerate the development of treatments that benefit not only cats but also humans grappling with Alzheimer’s disease. This collaborative and cross-disciplinary research approach underscores the importance of exploring shared pathways to better understand and address the challenges posed by dementia in both species.