A study published by Science Daily analyzed nearly 500 tumors in cats and found genetic mutations similar to those encountered in humans, including in the case of breast cancer.

A study conducted by teams from the Wellcome Sanger Institute, University of Guelph, and University of Bern analyzed nearly 500 tumors from domestic cats in five countries, highlighting genetic similarities with human cancer. Researchers identified mutations in the FBXW7 gene, associated with aggressive forms of breast cancer, present in over half of the breast tumors analyzed in cats. In humans, these mutations are linked to severe forms of breast cancer and lower survival rates.

The study also revealed similarities in cancers affecting the blood, bones, lungs, and other organs. Geoffrey Wood, a professor at the University of Guelph, emphasized that cancer in cats has been poorly understood until now. Additionally, researchers observed that certain chemotherapy drugs showed promising results in cases of feline tumors with FBXW7 gene mutations. This research supports collaboration between veterinary and human medicine, having the potential to contribute to the development of personalized treatments for cats and improving cancer therapies for humans.