Edith Hejberg
The findings could pave the way for new treatments benefiting both people and their pets.
Scientists at the University of Edinburgh have discovered that cats with dementia experience brain changes strikingly similar to those in humans with Alzheimer’s disease.
Moving Beyond Rodent Models
For decades, Alzheimer’s research has relied heavily on genetically modified rodents. However, these animals don’t naturally develop dementia.
Cats, by contrast, can experience memory loss spontaneously, making them a more authentic model for studying the condition.
Recognisable Symptoms in Feline Patients
Older cats with dementia often show signs such as increased vocalisation, confusion, and disrupted sleep, symptoms that closely mirror human patients.
This behavioural overlap adds weight to the argument that cats can serve as an effective research model.
A Closer Look Inside the Feline Brain
The research team examined the brains of 25 deceased cats of varying ages. In those with dementia, they found accumulations of amyloid-beta in the synapses, the same protein deposits associated with Alzheimer’s in humans.
The Role of Synaptic Pruning
Another significant finding was the presence of excessive synaptic pruning, a process where support cells consume damaged synapses.
While pruning is a normal part of brain development, too much of it can destroy vital connections and trigger dementia symptoms.
Insights from the Lead Researcher
Dr Robert McGeachan, from the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, emphasised: “Dementia is a devastating disease, whether it affects humans, cats, or dogs.
Our findings highlight the striking similarities between feline dementia and Alzheimer’s disease in people.”
Shared Benefits for Pets and People
Because cats naturally develop the brain changes linked to dementia, they may help researchers test and refine treatments that work for both species.
This opens possibilities for therapies that improve life quality for ageing pets and their human companions.
Published Findings and Global Collaboration
The study, featured in the European Journal of Neuroscience, was conducted by a partnership of researchers from Edinburgh, California, the UK Dementia Research Institute, and Scottish Brain Sciences, with funding from Wellcome and other key organisations.
Emotional Impact on Owners
Professor Danièlle Gunn-Moore, an expert in feline medicine, described the distress dementia causes both to cats and their owners.
She believes studies like this are essential for developing treatments that bring relief to all involved.
Looking Ahead
With feline dementia offering such a close parallel to human Alzheimer’s, scientists are optimistic that these insights could accelerate breakthroughs, marking a major step forward in understanding and tackling one of the most challenging diseases of our time.
