Scientists analyzing tumor DNA from nearly 500 domestic cats have produced the first detailed genetic map of cat cancers, revealing strong similarities to human disease and opening potential paths for new treatments.
Study Maps Nearly 1,000 Genes Across 13 Feline Cancers
Researchers led by the Wellcome Sanger Institute in Cambridge examined about 1,000 genes linked to 13 types of cancer in pet cats. The international team analyzed tumor DNA from almost 500 animals, creating the most comprehensive genetic map of cat cancers to date.
Cancer is one of the leading causes of illness and death in cats. Despite its prevalence, scientists know little has been known about how the disease develops in the species.
“Cat cancer genetics has totally been a black box up until now,” said lead researcher Dr. Louise Van der Wayden. “The more we can understand about cancer in any species, has got to be beneficial for everybody.”
The findings show many of the genetic mutations that drive cancer growth in cats also appear in humans. Researchers say this suggests both species share key biological processes that allow tumors to form, grow, and spread.
Scientists say the data could help improve understanding of cancer biology more broadly and support the development of new therapies.
Feline Breast Cancer Offers Model For Aggressive Human Type
One of the study’s most significant findings involves breast cancer. Researchers say cats could provide insight into triple-negative breast cancer, an aggressive subtype that accounts for about 15 out of 100 human breast cancer cases.
Triple-negative breast cancer lacks three common receptors used to target treatments, making it harder to treat. Cats develop this subtype more frequently than humans, giving scientists greater access to tumor samples for research.
By studying these naturally occurring cancers in cats, researchers hope to identify genetic drivers and test potential medicines that could benefit both species.
The study suggests that similarities between feline and human tumors may allow scientists to accelerate drug discovery and better understand why some cancers resist treatment.
Shared Environments May Reveal Cancer Risk Factors
Researchers say pet cats may also help scientists examine environmental factors linked to cancer risk. Almost a quarter of households in the United Kingdom own at least one cat, making them one of the country’s most common companion animals.
Because cats share homes with people, they are exposed to many of the same environmental conditions, including household chemicals, air pollutants, and lifestyle factors.
“This can help us understand more about why cancer develops in cats and humans, how the world around us influences cancer risk, and possibly find new ways to prevent and treat it,” said Prof. Geoffrey Wood of the Ontario Veterinary College in Canada.
While cancer research in dogs has expanded significantly in recent years, experts say cat cancers have received less attention. The new genetic map begins to close that gap and may encourage further studies focused on cats.
Researchers emphasize that the work does not immediately translate into new treatments. However, they say it establishes a foundation for comparative cancer studies and highlights the value of veterinary science in advancing human medicine.
The team plans to continue analyzing data and expanding collaboration across institutions to better understand how cancer evolves in different species.
