Scientists say feline cancer genetics are no longer a mystery after completing one of the largest studies ever conducted on tumors in domestic cats.
The research, published in Science, is the first large-scale effort to genetically profile cancers in cats. Researchers believe the findings could improve understanding of cancer in both animals and humans while also creating a valuable open resource for future feline cancer studies.
Cancer is one of the leading causes of disease and death in cats, yet scientists have historically known very little about the genetic changes driving these illnesses.
"Despite domestic cats being common pets, there was very little known about the genetics of cancer in these animals," said Dr. Geoffrey Wood, a professor of pathobiology at the University of Guelph and co-senior author of the study, "until now."
Cat Tumors Show Strong Genetic Similarities to Human Cancers
