If there is one diagnosis that is universally feared, it’s cancer. The great equalizer, cancer doesn’t care if you’re old, young, rich, poor, black, white, or beige. It also doesn’t spare our cats. Although a universal cure for cancer may be something of a fairytale, the treatment of cancer is a field that is constantly evolving. This week, we caught up with Dr Ilona Holcombe, the Director of Biosciences at ImpriMed, whose team is changing the way we treat cancer with the help of AI.

Whether we like it or not – sometimes, whether we know it or not – artificial intelligence is working its way into almost every aspect of our lives. Although we may not always welcome its presence in arts and literature, the virtually infinite problem-solving capacity of AI has the potential to find solutions that would otherwise take decades. ImpriMed is leading the charge against cancer by using this technology to create customized chemotherapy treatment protocols for humans and pets.

Wait, Chemotherapy for Pets?

When you think about the debilitating effects that chemotherapy often has on human patients, you would be forgiven for being horrified at the thought of exposing our pets to this form of treatment. The difference with veterinary chemotherapy is that the doses are significantly lower than those used to treat humans, making the side effects minimal. The compromise is that remission is usually the best we can hope for; the doses needed to achieve a cure would be too cruel to inflict on our pets. However, as many pet parents will attest, being able to extend the length of quality time they have with their pets is worth it.

Of the dozen or so drugs used for chemotherapy, there are only a handful that commonly form part of a treatment protocol, with the rest reserved for unresponsive or relapsing cases. Treatment protocols are typically based on which drug combinations tend to be most effective against the specific form of cancer we are treating, but this can involve a certain amount of trial and error, tweaking drugs and doses depending on how the patient – and their cancer – responds.

ImpriMed is removing this uncertainty by analyzing your pet’s cancer cells and using an AI program that has been created using years of statistics, case studies, and patient outcomes to determine not just how it might respond to certain chemotherapy treatments, but how it DOES respond to them.

Cancer Culture and Sensitivity

When treating an infection, an important step is culture & sensitivity testing, where a sample of the bacteria is grown in a lab in order to identify it and test which antibiotics will eliminate it. The process used at ImpriMed can be thought of in the same way. Cancer cells are isolated, identified, and put through multiple treatment combinations to determine which drugs are going to be the most effective, taking the guesswork out of treatment. Within a week, your vet will receive a personalized prediction profile for your pet.

Most of the side effects of chemotherapy occur because the chemicals used do not discriminate between cancerous and non-cancerous cells. They are most effective against rapidly dividing cells, which is why cancer cells are the ones most affected, but healthy cells can also be damaged and destroyed.

By using drugs that we already know are going to be effective against the cancer cells in this individual, those risks are reduced.

Does It Work on All Cancer?

At this stage, this AI service is only available for feline lymphoma, as well as canine leukemia and lymphoma, but there are plans underway to extend this into other common cancers seen in cats and dogs, as well as explore its use in treating feline inflammatory bowel disease. There is also hope that treatments could be found for forms of cancer that are currently unresponsive to chemotherapy, as well as look for different drug formulations and combinations.

It Must Be Expensive

We sadly live in a world where many medical and veterinary treatments are inaccessible to all but the super-rich. However, Dr. Holcomb, a self-confessed soft-hearted pet lover, seems determined to keep this technology within the reach of every pet owner, and the base price for a comprehensive personalized chemotherapy prediction profile will usually be around $1,000 from your vet*. This may seem like a lot of money, but when you consider the complexity of this technology, as well as how much time it saves getting your cat’s treatment right the first time, it’s actually very reasonable.

*As of February 2025. Indicative prices only. Excludes veterinarian costs (eg. consultations, sampling fees, etc). Contact your vet for further information.

It’s refreshing to come across a company that seems to care about pets and their parents, and we can only hope that it stays that way. ImpriMed’s services are available throughout the country, as well as overseas, so if your pet has been diagnosed with cancer, you might want to talk to a vet about exploring this option.

Featured image credit: Maria Sbytova, Shutterstock

The post Artificial Intelligence Takes on Feline Cancer: How New Technology Is Helping Treat Common Cat Cancers by Dr. Karyn Kanowski BVSc MRCVS (Veterinarian) appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Until very recently, a diagnosis of the disease Feline Infectious Peritonitis, better known as FIP, was an automatic death sentence. An aggressive inflammatory disease, FIP is a mutation of a relatively benign form of feline coronavirus, a distant relation to COVID-19.

Interestingly, it was the human coronavirus pandemic that accelerated the development of the first effective treatment for FIP, Remdesivir. This injectable antiviral medication had been in development before COVID-19 struck, but the sudden need for human treatments sent the research and development teams at Gilead into overdrive. While this was good news for those suffering from severe forms of COVID-19, it was great news for vets and cat owners, whose options when faced with FIP patients in the past had been palliation and euthanasia.

In 2021, Remdesivir was being rolled out in Australia, the UK, and parts of Europe, with promising results. Although not a guaranteed cure, vets were finally seeing FIP patients improving and going home. However, a lack of FDA approval in the US meant that this potentially life-saving treatment was still out of reach for many. Desperate cat owners were even turning to ‘black market’ sources to obtain the drug.

Three years after its initial release, the FDA has tentatively cleared the path for an alternative form of Remdesivir, a tablet known only as GS-441524, for use in the US. In a recent statement, the FDA wished to:

In other words, we haven’t approved it, but we know you’re going to use it, and we’re not going to try to stop you. What a clever way to magnanimously allow treatment to proceed without the risk of shouldering any blame if things go wrong!

Studies indicate that the efficacy of the oral medication is comparable to that of the injection, but a combination of the two forms may be even more effective. Case studies have reported a range of responses, including remission, relapse, and death, but with only 4 years’ worth of real-world cases, it will be some time before we can evaluate long-term outcomes. For now, it is enough to say that cats diagnosed with FIP are finally being given the chance to have a long-term outcome.

Next item on the list: come up with a name a little more marketable than GS-441524!

The post New Hope for a Fatal Feline Disease: Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) Treatment Gets a Green Light by Dr. Karyn Kanowski BVSc MRCVS (Veterinarian) appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

We’ve all been guilty of it at one time or another. That moment of Schadenfreude when we see a cat do something uncoordinated or embarrassing. Perhaps it’s because it happens so rarely, or because it’s usually us, the bumbling humans, that are being silently mocked by feline onlookers. A more common opportunity for us to quietly enjoy the misfortune of our much-loved cat is when we first introduce them to a harness. Of course, there are those who take on this equipment with nary a hint of hesitation, but for others, the application of a harness renders the normally graceful and agile feline into a rigid, wobbly, or vertically challenged mess.

Over the years, many theories have been postulated to explain why a harness, vest, or jumper should rob a cat of their motor function, and to be fair, these theories seem quite reasonable. However, we recently learned of a study from 2012 that may actually explain the phenomenon.

Why a Harness Causes Cats to Fall Over: The Theories

Prior to our discovery, the leading theories explaining why harnesses make some cats fall over included:

Fight, Flight, and Freeze: The idea that a harness presents the cat with some unknown threat has many believing that the rigid response is part of their instinctive fight, flight, or freeze reaction to danger.

Pressure Points: This theory suggests that the harness stimulates certain pressure points that are commonly associated with a mother cat carrying her young. It may also trigger a ‘play dead’ reaction in response to being picked up by a predator.

The Wrong Fit: A harness that is too large or too small may interfere with movement.

A Scientific Explanation

We know that cats are extraordinarily flexible, fast, agile, and acrobatic. From their preternaturally rapid reflexes to their ability to always land on their feet, feline mobility and coordination have always been the subject of curiosity. We recently uncovered a study* that looked into how much of that feline coordination comes from the brain, and how much is controlled by spinal reflexes alone, with some fascinating results.

By surgically separating the brain from the spinal cord, scientists found that cats could still walk on a treadmill with coordinated hind limb function when the appropriate motor nerves were electrically stimulated. The experiment proved that in addition to higher brain function, feline movement and coordination were governed by direct somatosensory feedback – that is, the body was able to maintain a balanced and coordinated gait based purely on touch.

The Sixth Sense (not that Sixth Sense)

This somatosensory feedback mechanism functions almost like a sixth sense, providing cats with an additional unconscious way to move and react to their environment, which explains how they can do the things they do. However, when we put something over their body, it would be the equivalent of placing a blindfold over their eyes. A cat is unlikely to be consciously aware of this sixth sense, but it will be a shock to the system when it is suddenly obscured. But, just as a cat will eventually adapt to a lack of sight, they will also adapt to their altered somatosensory input, and once they have learned to do this, it too becomes a reflex whenever the harness is put back on.

Is It Cruel to Put a Harness on My Cat?

Not at all. Unless your cat is particularly distressed by the harness or shows no sign of adjusting to wearing one, once your cat becomes accustomed to the harness, they should be able to enjoy their newfound (relative) freedom without impediment.

The post From Fierce to Floppy: Science Finally Explains Why Cats Fall Over in Harnesses by Dr. Karyn Kanowski BVSc MRCVS (Veterinarian) appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

You may have heard about the sad death of at least one cat after eating raw frozen cat food contaminated with the H5N1 virus. While a single fatality might not exactly have you quaking in your boots, it was enough to convince several pet food companies to test their products and issue voluntary recalls. Recalling products can be an extremely costly venture for any company, and not an action taken lightly, so how worried do pet owners need to be?

The Facts About Bird Flu

Avian influenza, commonly referred to as ‘bird flu’ or H5N1, is a highly pathogenic form of influenza virus that is devastating to the poultry industry.¹ Historically, we have seen the disease spread from bird to bird and occasionally from bird to mammal, including humans, cats, and cattle, but during the most recent outbreak, there have been cases of virus transmission between mammals.² Why is this a concern? Well, it suggests that this virus is continuing to change and evolve, which could have devastating results.

H5N1 is almost always fatal in birds, which can have a devastating impact on wild bird populations. Additionally, mandatory cullings in poultry farms are often implemented in an attempt to contain the spread of the virus. In cattle, signs of infection are usually mild, with milk production most significantly affected. Humans, who can contract bird flu through direct contact with infected birds or mammals, tend to suffer mild flu-like symptoms of fever, headache, and coughing, with occasional vomiting and diarrhea as well. Over the past 12 months, there have been less than 70 confirmed human cases of H5N1 in the US, with only a single fatality. However, it is how the virus affects cats that is keeping plenty of pet owners up at night.

Cats, Dogs, and Bird Flu

The fact that cats can be infected with avian influenza is not new information, and the majority of cases are seen in farm cats or strays that have caught and eaten wild birds or ingested unpasteurized milk. In fact, sick barn cats have often been used as an early indicator to dairy farmers that bird flu may be in the herd. Unlike in humans and cattle, bird flu is often fatal in cats, with clinical signs including fever, lethargy, reddened or inflamed eyes, discharge from the eyes and nose, difficulty breathing, neurologic signs, like tremors, seizures, incoordination, or blindness.

The recent death of a house cat in Washington County has led to widespread testing by pet food companies, with some issuing recalls for certain poultry-based products. While supporters of raw pet food insist that there is no need for alarm, the case does highlight one of the most glaring problems with the raw-feeding trend: pathogen risk.

Although a raw diet has been shown to provide many health benefits to pets, the risk of bacterial, and now viral, contamination is a hazard that can be alleviated with some gentle cooking. There are now a large number of companies creating fresh-frozen meals as a safer alternative to raw, optimizing the nutritional benefits while minimizing the risk of pathogens.

To date, although dogs are able to become infected with bird flu, the only cases found – either through natural or experimental exposure – have been asymptomatic. That’s good news for the dogs, but not so good for the spread of the virus.

The big worry for cats is that we now know that they can become infected with bird flu from direct contact with infected animals, by consuming birds or unpasteurized milk, and through the consumption of contaminated raw meat. Coupled with the fact that this virus is particularly virulent in cats, pet owners are right to be concerned.

How Can I Protect My Cat from Bird Flu?

The first thing to know is that statistically, the risk of bird flu infection for your cat is very low, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t stay vigilant. The chances that your cat will come into direct contact with an infected animal are extremely low, but if your cat is fed a raw meat diet, particularly one that contains poultry, you may want to rethink their food choice.

The FDA issued the following advice to pet owners:

The Take Home Message

Although the risk of bird flu to your cat remains extremely low, the effects of the virus are severe, so it is important to stay up to date with information about this outbreak and how it may affect your pets. There are some simple ways to keep your cat’s risk even lower, and one of those is to ensure you are only feeding food that has undergone some form of heat treatment. If you do use a raw food diet, we would recommend getting in touch with the supplier to make sure they are screening for H5N1, and consider cooking meat products before feeding them to your pet – just remember to remove bones from chicken!

Keep your kitty indoors, or if that isn’t an option, make some changes to reduce their hunting success. To make sure you stay in the loop, subscribe to Catster.com, and if you suspect that your pet has been infected or exposed to avian flu, it is important that you contact your veterinarian immediately for advice and follow the guidelines set out by the CDC.

The post What Does the Bird Flu Pet Food Recall Mean For You & Your Cat? by Dr. Karyn Kanowski BVSc MRCVS (Veterinarian) appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Cat lovers, artists, and advocates in Florida are in for a treat this January with the launch of Space Cats Florida, a new convention designed to celebrate everything feline. Founded by Leeza Hernandez, a lifelong cat enthusiast, artist, and entrepreneur, the event promises to unite creativity and compassion in support of cats in need.

Space Cats Florida is taking place on January 25th and 26th 2025 at the Space Coast Convention Center in Cocoa, Florida.

Catster is excited to announce this event and share more information about how it got started and what visitors can expect. We spoke with Leeza to get the inside scoop.

From Sketching Cats to Convention CEO: Leeza’s Journey

Leeza’s career has always been deeply intertwined with art and her love for cats. From her early days as a graphic designer and illustrator to authoring and illustrating the children’s book Catnapped! in 2013, she has continually found ways to merge her artistic talents with her passion for felines.

In 2017, Leeza’s journey took a new turn when she attended the Catsbury Park Cat Convention in New Jersey. Initially planning to visit as a fan, she decided to showcase her work instead, combining book signings with art prints inspired by her cat sketches. “My booth was a hit, and I quickly realized I could turn my love of cats and art into a flourishing creative venture.” Leeza soon began traveling to cat conventions nationwide, some of which included CatCon Worldwide, Meow MeetUp, SeaMeow, and Catsbury Park, connecting with the vibrant community of cat lovers.

However, when the pandemic paused in-person events, Leeza found herself missing the community and energy of these gatherings. After relocating to Florida and learning that no East Coast conventions were returning, she decided to take matters into her own hands. With encouragement from fellow vendors and her husband, Leeza embarked on a mission to create Space Cats Florida.

“I never imagined hosting my own convention, but when no East Coast cat events returned after the pandemic, I realized it was time to step up and create something for the community I love,” Leeza shared.

The Heart of Space Cats Florida

Space Cats Florida, taking place on January 25th and 26th at the Space Coast Convention Center in Cocoa, FL, is more than just a celebration of cats—it’s a movement to make a tangible impact. Partnering with the Brevard Humane Society, the event aims to support their efforts in finding forever homes for cats and raising awareness about animal welfare.

“Space Cats Florida isn’t just about celebrating our love of cats—it’s about uniting as a community to make a real difference for the cats who need us most,” Leeza explained. “[It’s] a celebration of everything I love about cats and community with a deep desire to connect cat lovers, experts, and beyond in this state. As an artist who has always donated a portion of my art sales to help cats in need, this event felt like a natural extension of that mission.”

The convention will feature unique vendors, interactive Cativity stations, and educational presentations from cat experts. Special guests include social media star Nathan The Cat Lady on Saturday and a meet-and-greet with a Maine Coon named PEAK on Sunday. With a blend of fun and advocacy, the event is set to be a highlight for cat enthusiasts across the region.

A Community Effort

Organizing a convention is no small feat, but Leeza has received immense support from her family, friends, and volunteers, as well as the speakers and vendors who share her vision. While the inaugural year’s team is small, their dedication and passion are the driving forces behind the event’s creation.

“We might be small in our inaugural year, but we will be mighty!” Leeza shared.

Event Details

• When: January 25th and 26th, 2025
• Where: Space Coast Convention Center, 301 Tucker Lane, Cocoa, FL
• Tickets: Available at spacecatsflorida.com or via Eventbrite at https://SpaceCatsFlorida.eventbrite.com Tickets range from $10 to $55.

The weekend of feline fun promises an exciting experience for cat lovers, breeders, and professionals, featuring a dynamic lineup of speakers and activities:

• SurferCat Mavi: Star of Cat People on Netflix and featured on The Today Show and People Magazine, Mavi the Bengal cat is an extreme athlete—surfing, snowboarding, and more. He’s currently filming a travel show in Italy.
• Kate Benjamin: Founder of Hauspanther and co-author of Catification, she’ll share her expertise in stylish and functional cat design.
• Sterling ‘TrapKing’ Davis: A former rapper and TNR advocate, Davis promotes diversity in animal welfare and contributes to controlling feral cat populations.
• Ellen Carozza: Known as the “Cat LVT,” Carozza will offer valuable tips on feline health and care, promoting adoption through the Chris Griffey Memorial Feline Foundation.
• Nathan Kehn (Nathan The Cat Lady): A passionate cat welfare advocate, Nathan has worked across the country with shelters and rescues to improve the lives of cats.

Activities include:

• Lunar Lounge: Cats for adoption from the Brevard Humane Society.
• DIY Cat Toy & Friendship Bracelet Station: Fun for families and cat lovers.
• Intergalactic Photo Backdrop: Perfect for social media photos.
• Celebrity Cat Meet ‘n’ Greets: Photo ops with famous cats.
• Art Wall: A coloring station for kids.
• Fundraising Activities: Support local cat charities.
• Cat Product Giveaways/Vendors: Browse the “Space Cat Walk” for products and win prizes.

A special thanks is given to sponsors like Zymox and CatLady Box for supporting this event!

Looking Ahead

Leeza’s ultimate goal is to establish Space Cats Florida as an annual event that continues to expand the cat community, educate attendees, and raise awareness. “This convention is a celebration of everything we love about cats—community, creativity, and compassion—all coming together for a purr-pose,” she said.

With plans to grow and evolve, Space Cats Florida aims to become a trusted event for cat enthusiasts in the Southeast—a must-attend convention that blends fun, education, and advocacy.

For more information and updates, visit spacecatsflorida.com.

The post Space Cats Florida: The Southeast’s Newest Cat Convention Launches This Weekend by Nicole Cosgrove appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

For the first time in its history, the Oregon Humane Society’s (OHS) Behavior Modification Program for cats and kittens has surpassed 100 annual adoptions, with 102 cats finding loving homes in 2024. This groundbreaking program is specifically designed for pets who require specialized training and care before they are ready for adoption.

Behavior Modification Training for Cats

Cats at the OHS often face unique challenges. Many are extremely shy and fearful, while others struggle with overstimulation, frustration, or specific behavioral issues that make it difficult for them to adapt to life in a home. This is where the Behavior Modification Program comes in.

“When people think of behavior modification and training, dogs are often who comes to mind,” says Tanya Roberts, OHS Director of Training and Behavior. “But this program is having an extraordinary, lifesaving impact on cats and kittens.”

Take, for example, a 5-month-old kitten named John. On December 24, John became the 100th feline to be adopted through the Behavior Modification Program in 2024. John came to OHS from an overwhelmed pet owner struggling to care for too many animals. His adoption represents a major milestone for a program that has seen significant growth since moving to its purpose-built Behavior and Rescue Center in late 2022.

Erika Sims, the OHS Feline Behavior Modification Manager, explains that “cats and kittens are getting ready for adoption almost 50% faster than they did when we were doing this work in the main shelter. This means we can help even more cats because we are truly a lifeline and often the last option for most of the felines who come through our program.”

The success of the Behavior Modification Program lies in its individualized approach. Every cat entering the program receives a customized plan tailored to their specific needs.

“Working with a shy, fearful cat is a slow process of building trust,” says Erika. “While a cat who gets overstimulated and frustrated needs time to decompress before we can start changing their behavior.”

Patience is key to addressing behavioral challenges in cats. The process is often gradual, but the outcomes are profound.

“Progress is measured in small increments, but the results are life-changing, and lifesaving,” Erika adds. “We are changing stereotypes and showing that cats have an incredible capacity to learn and change.”

A Lasting Impact

Pet parents who welcome these special cats into their homes receive additional support and guidance to ensure a smooth transition and a successful match. This extra level of care helps create lasting bonds between the cats and their new families.

As the program continues to grow, so does its impact. The milestone reached in 2024 is a testament to the dedication of the OHS team and the transformative power of behavior modification. By addressing the unique needs of each cat, OHS is not only giving them a second chance at life but also changing the way people view feline behavior and training.

With every success story, the OHS Behavior Modification Program is proving that even the most challenging cats deserve a chance to thrive—and that with patience, compassion, and expertise, they can find their place in a loving home.

About the Oregon Humane Society

Founded in 1868, the Oregon Humane Society is one of the most respected animal welfare organizations in the United States. Through their mission of Creating a More Humane Society, they are working toward their vision of a world where all animals are treated with compassion, kindness, and respect. With campuses in Portland and Salem, OHS is an Oregon-based nonprofit that relies on donor support for its adoption, education, medical, and humane law enforcement programs. Visit oregonhumane.org for more information.

Images provided to Catster by Oregon Humane Society

The post Think Cats Can’t Be Trained? This Record-Breaking Program Proves Otherwise With 102 Cats Saved! by Nicole Cosgrove appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Have you heard of Veganuary? Each January, millions of people worldwide embrace vegan diets as part of the Veganuary campaign. In 2024, approximately 25 million people sought a fresh start for their health and the environment by adopting plant-based eating habits. While Veganuary has primarily focused on human participants since its inception in 2014, veterinary Professor Andrew Knight, a Veterinary Professor for Animal Welfare, is now advocating for an extension of the initiative to include pets.¹

Potential Health Benefits of Vegan Diets for Cats and Dogs

In his recent article in The Conversation, Professor Knight highlights the potential health benefits of vegan diets for pets. “By late 2024, 11 studies in dogs, three in cats, and one systematic review covering both had all demonstrated that dogs and cats thrive on modern vegan or vegetarian diets,” he writes. According to Knight, consistent health benefits include “a reduction in obesity and of conditions that may be triggered by animal-sourced allergens, like itchy skin and ears and gastrointestinal problems.” However, he stresses that “all diets, including vegan diets, should be manufactured by reputable pet food companies which carefully formulate their food to be nutritionally sound.”

Cats and the Nutritional Challenges

Despite these findings, transitioning cats to vegan diets remains controversial. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they require specific nutrients like taurine and arachidonic acid, typically derived from animal sources. Critics argue that even well-formulated vegan cat foods may not fully replicate the nutritional profile of a natural diet, potentially leading to deficiencies.

Supporters of vegan pet diets counter that modern advancements in pet food science can address these concerns. Synthetic versions of essential nutrients can now be added to vegan formulations, making them nutritionally complete. However, experts still emphasize the importance of consulting a veterinarian before making dietary changes, particularly for cats.

Environmental Impact of Pet Diets

Professor Knight’s most recent research sheds light on the environmental implications of pet food. In high pet ownership nations like the U.S., pet food accounts for around 20% of all land animals killed for food, as well as billions of fish and marine animals. Globally, this figure is approximately 9%, even after accounting for by-products of human food production.

The scale of this impact is staggering. According to Knight, feeding the world’s approximately 470 million pet dogs with nutritionally sound vegan food could save six billion land animals annually. Such a transition would also spare 0.57 gigatonnes of CO2-equivalent greenhouse gases each year—1.5 times the emissions of the UK in 2023.

While the environmental benefits are smaller for the world’s roughly 370 million pet cats, they remain significant. Knight estimates that a global shift to vegan cat food could save enough food energy to feed 70 million people annually, equivalent to the population of the UK.

Ethical Considerations and Controversies

As mentioned earlier, the idea of vegan cats sparks ethical and practical debates. On one hand, reducing the demand for animal-based pet foods aligns with broader environmental and ethical goals. “An average-sized dog can consume as much meat as a person,” notes Knight. “If you want better health and environmental outcomes in 2025, try Veganuary—and please don’t forget your pets!”

However, critics contend that imposing vegan diets on obligate carnivores like cats prioritizes human values over animal welfare. They caution against overlooking the physiological differences between species in the pursuit of sustainability. But if it can be done in a way that prioritizes animal welfare, as Professor Knight suggests, then it surely is a win-win.

Moving Forward with Informed Choices

For pet owners considering a vegan diet for their cats or dogs, Knight advises seeking professional guidance. Advice is available via his website.

The Veganuary campaign’s growing influence invites a broader conversation about the role pets play in sustainability efforts. Whether or not cats and dogs should embrace plant-based diets, the dialogue highlights the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. The choices we make—for ourselves and our pets—could shape a more sustainable future for us all.

What Our Vet Says

Our own Dr. Karyn Kanowski took a look at the research and projections that Dr. Knight provided and wanted to share her insights to help break it down for readers:

Adopting a healthy and nutritionally balanced vegan diet and lifestyle undoubtedly carries a number of health and ethical benefits for humans, but deciding to implement one for your pets is something entirely different, particularly when it comes to cats.

Over 10,000 or so years of domestication, dogs have evolved from the wolf, whose diet was obtained through hunting and scavenging, to one that is hand-delivered by humans. Their changing diet has led to a changing digestive system, moving from being primarily carnivorous to facultative carnivores, and now approaching an omnivorous diet. Because of this, the nutritional needs of the domestic dog can be relatively well met with a plant-based diet. However, there simply isn’t enough data to be able to confidently recommend this—yet.

Cats, on the other hand, became favored companions of humans, due in large part to their hunting skills, keeping disease-spreading rodent populations at bay. Although the modern domestic feline is more likely to be seen stalking a laser pointer than a mouse, their physiology remains that of an obligate carnivore. They need animal protein to survive.

Supporters of feeding vegan diets to cats claim that the essential nutrients found in meat can be artificially supplemented, but the question remains: why?

• Professor Knight’s research suggests that feeding cats a vegan diet could free up enough resources to feed close to 70 million people. That’s all well and good, but let’s look at the other figures:
• The cat food industry accounts for only 2.3% of livestock consumption in the US, 1.2% worldwide.
• Humans consume 80% of livestock in the US, and 91% worldwide.
• If the study results are accurate, feeding cats a vegan diet can free up enough resources to feed another 70 million people.
• If humans adopted a vegan diet, there would be enough food to feed an additional 5.3 billion people worldwide.

However, it is worth noting that a lack of global resources is NOT the reason so many people in this world go hungry. The 2019 State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World showed us that, while just over 800 million people are underfed and hungry, over 1 billion of the world’s population is overweight and obese. And when you factor in the amount of food that goes to waste every day, it’s clear to see that the problem with world hunger isn’t a lack of food, but a lack of fair distribution. World hunger is a problem caused by war and politics, and feeding your cat a vegan diet is not going to change that.

There are many challenging problems faced in the world today, and ethically speaking, reducing—even stopping–the number of animals that are killed and suffer to meet humans’ dietary preferences, would be a good thing. However, depriving carnivorous animals of meat to comply with our principles is both unnecessary and unethical. A vegan and vegetarian diet is a choice that can, perhaps should, be made by humans; it is not something to be forced on our pets.

If you are uncomfortable feeding animal-based protein to your cat, consider adopting a herbivorous species next time.

What are your thoughts? Is this something you adopt for your cat? In January, or long-term? Or would you stay as far away from it as you can? We’d love to hear from you in the comment section below.

The post Could Vegan Cats Help Feed 70 Million People? Exploring the Veganuary Debate by Nicole Cosgrove appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Firstly, thank you for reading and being along for the journey in 2024. We can’t wait to share more feline adventures, news, care tips, and adorable photos with you in 2025.

As cat parents, you’ll know that any changes from the regular routine can throw your kitty out of balance. Parties at home, or even them watching you get dolled up to leave home, can be unnerving.

But one of the most common stressors during New Year’s celebrations is the beloved and dreaded fireworks displays. Cats can become anxious and overwhelmed by the noises that come with fireworks, so if you’re like us here at Catster, you’ll want to protect your kitty as best as you can during the celebrations tonight.

Each year, there are more calls to end fireworks displays in different communities and cities around the world. But we’re far from a complete ban on them, so there are things you can do to ensure your kitty is safe inside your home and that you both can enjoy ringing in the new year safely.

The 5 Tips for Keeping Cats Safe During New Year’s Eve Fireworks

1. Keep Them Indoors

This is key! If your cat is usually roaming, we say: not on New Year’s Eve!  Keep your cat indoors well before the fireworks start, and close all windows, doors, and curtains to block out the sights and sounds of the fireworks, preventing them from becoming startled or running away.

2. Ensure Their Identification is Up to Date

Ensure your cat’s collar and ID tags are secure and up to date, and that their microchip information is accurate. Even though you’ll be keeping them indoors, cats are Houdinis, so we recommend taking this extra precaution.

3. Create a Calm, Quiet Space

Set up a safe, quiet space where your cat can hide if they feel overwhelmed. This could be a cozy bed in a back room, a closet, or under furniture where they can feel secure and out of sight from the noise and lights.

4. Drown Out the Noise

Playing calming music or white noise can help mask the sound of fireworks. Keeping the TV or radio on a low volume with soft, soothing sounds can also help distract your cat and reduce anxiety.

5. Offer Comfort and Familiarity

Spend time with your cat to help calm them, offering cuddles, pets, or simply sitting near them in their safe space. A familiar blanket or piece of clothing with your scent can provide extra comfort during stressful moments.

You can read more ways to keep your cat safe during fireworks in our complete, vet-approved guide here.

There are many other hazards to keep an eye out for during holiday celebrations, like decorations, food, and unfamiliar people. If you think from your cat’s perspective tonight, though, you can better ensure a smooth transition into the new year for both of you.

What are your thoughts on banning fireworks to keep pets safe? Let us know in the comments below.

And of course, Happy New Year! See you in 2025! Thank you for reading.

The post Happy Mew Year’s Eve From Catster! Keeping Your Kitty Safe During the Fireworks by Nicole Cosgrove appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

On Saturday, December 14, and Sunday, December 15, 2024, Nueva Gorgona, Panama’s coastal town hosted a spay and neuter event. Over two days, veterinarians and volunteers from Spay Panama and local communities sterilized 360 cats, making a major impact on the area’s stray and feral populations.

United Efforts To Control Local Overpopulation

Spay Panama has led animal welfare efforts in the country since 2001, completing over 350,000 spay and neuter procedures for dogs and cats. The organization focuses on reducing overpopulation in underserved areas by providing affordable and accessible sterilization services.

The roots of their presence in the region date back to 2020, when the local Panama Andy Dog Rescue and Sanctuary and Jeannine Nadeau from Mail Boxes Etc. began efforts to address the overwhelming number of stray cats and dogs in the area. They organized caravans to transport animals to distant regions where sterilization services were available. Their work gained recognition from Spay Panama, which started visiting the area in 2021 to host regular spay and neuter clinics. These visits have become an essential part of controlling the local animal population.

Setting A Pop-Up Clinic

Spay Panama’s mobile clinic—a specially outfitted bus—brought the veterinary team and equipment directly to Nueva Gorgona. Volunteers and vets transformed the casa comunal, a public space at the heart of the community, into a fully functioning clinic. Pet parents began arriving early, carrying their cats in crates, boxes, or even inside pillowcases. Some community members volunteered their vehicles to help transport animals to the clinic. The dedication from everyone involved reflected how much the community valued this opportunity.

The vets worked nonstop, performing surgeries with incredible focus, while volunteers managed paperwork, prepared animals for surgery, transported them from section to section, and monitored them during recovery. The conditions were hot and humid, and everyone was drenched with sweat, but no one slowed down. To obtain these high numbers things need to move similarly to an assembly line in a factory.

“The bus allows us to reach communities like Nueva Gorgona where resources are scarce,” said one team member. “We can sterilize hundreds of animals in a weekend, improving life for both the animals and the community.”

Why Spaying and Neutering Matters

Spaying and neutering are critical for preventing overpopulation. Without intervention, uncontrolled breeding leaves stray animals struggling with hunger, disease, and neglect. Sterilized cats avoid risky pregnancies, live healthier lives, and show fewer territorial behaviors like roaming and fighting.

The impact of leaving just one unspayed cat unchecked can be significant. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), a single female cat can produce up to 98 kittens in her lifetime, assuming two litters per year with an average of three kittens per litter. Factoring in offspring that reproduce, this number can grow exponentially. By sterilizing 360 cats during this event, Spay Panama and the Nueva Gorgona community made a meaningful step toward controlling the cycle of overpopulation.

A Shared Sense of Accomplishment

The weekend ended with 360 cats sterilized and an incredible sense of achievement. Volunteers, veterinarians, and pet parents all came together for the same purpose—to create lasting change for animals and the community. Yes, it was tiring, but it was worth every effort.

Spay Panama with the support of the local rescue groups and community members plans to continue this vital work, healding campaigns three times a year in the area and helping Nueva Gorgona tackle overpopulation. To support their mission or learn about upcoming events, visit Panama Andy Animal Rescue and Spay Panama’s official websites.

Every spay and neuter counts. Every cat matters.

The post 360 Spay Neuter Success Story: Dr. Paola Helps in Panama by Dr. Paola Cuevas MVZ (Veterinarian) appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Hyper-realistic cats have the gaming community abuzz as Catly made its global debut at this year’s The Game Awards. The stunning trailer gave players their first glimpse into the interactive, charming, and delightfully mischievous open-world cat game. A love letter to felines everywhere, Catly promises to capture everything that makes cats the playful, graceful, and endlessly entertaining companions we know and love.

The trailer showcases an imaginative, technologically innovative world where cats are the undeniable stars. Developed for cat lovers by cat lovers, Catly is a celebration of cat mannerisms and quirks, from their cozy napping habits to their penchant for exploration—and, of course, a touch of chaos. Coming to Steam, Nintendo Switch, and even the Apple Watch, this game is ready to bring purrs of joy to players anywhere, anytime.

What Makes Catly Stand Out

Catly isn’t just another pet simulation game. It is an adventure-driven, open-world experience that empowers cats to accomplish feats that most humans can only dream of—while staying true to the authenticity of feline behavior. The game offers both solo and multiplayer quests filled with exploration, world-building, and charming interactions with stylish feline companions. Catly taps into the fantasy of living life as a cat—but with an imaginative and artistic twist.

Every cat in Catly is unique, offering endless possibilities for customization. Players will be able to accessorize their cats with stylish outfits, quirky accessories, and tailor-made environments to reflect their feline’s personality. The freedom to create one-of-a-kind companions ensures that no two cats—or gameplay experiences—will be alike. It’s a game that encourages creativity and connection, a space where cat lovers can design their dream feline friend and explore an enchanting world alongside them.

Cats, Anywhere and Anytime

One of Catly’s most exciting announcements is its release on the Apple Watch, a platform not typically associated with immersive gaming. This bold move ensures that cat lovers can have their virtual feline companions with them no matter where they are—whether checking in on their cat during a coffee break or completing quick challenges on the go. A little reminder of the Tamagotchi craze in the 1990s.

Catly currently is available to wishlist on Steam and pre-order on Apple Watch. You can also ollow Catly on X and register on the Catly website to be the first to see updates and further announcements.

Coming Soon: The Cat Era of Gaming

While Catly is set for more reveals in 2025, the debut trailer alone has proven it’s a game to watch. Its combination of technological innovation, feline charm, and creative freedom makes it a standout in the gaming world. Whether you’re a lifelong cat lover or just someone who appreciates a beautifully crafted experience, Catly promises an adventure full of heart, humor, and endless whisker-filled wonder.

Get ready to pounce into the future of cat gaming—one stylish paw at a time.

Images provided by Johner Riehl at Zebra Partners

Also see: 

• New Bylaw Proposes Mandatory “Chipping & Snipping” for Cats in New Zealand Which Could Protect Native Birds
• CatVideoFest: The Purr-fect Combination of Fun and Feline Philanthropy

The post First Look at Catly – A Hyper-Realistic Feline Gaming Adventure Coming in 2025 by Nicole Cosgrove appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.