Great news for cats!

[hermetic]

In a study published in Nature Communications, researchers have unveiled a promising alternative to traditional spaying and neutering. This gene therapy, administered through a single injection, prevented female cats from getting pregnant, even after mating with fertile males. The therapy targets anti-Müellerian hormone (AMH), a key player in the development of fetal sex organs. Injecting a modified virus carrying the AMH gene into cats’ muscle cells led to higher levels of this hormone. The result? Ovaries that remain dormant, preventing the release of eggs.

The study involved six female cats, with three receiving a high-dose therapy and three a lower dose, Science News reports. An additional three cats received a placebo for comparison. When placed with fertile males, the control group cats gave birth after a single mating session, while none of the treated cats became pregnant, even after multiple mating attempts.

While spaying and neutering have been effective in controlling cat populations, the process isn’t without its challenges. Feral cats often elude capture, making multiple trapping and surgery sessions necessary, the U.S. Department of Agriculture reports. But what if we could achieve the same results without the need for surgery?

While these results are promising, more research is needed to ensure the therapy’s safety and effectiveness. Scientists are refining the gene and its delivery method to enhance its impact and affordability. It could be at least five years before a commercial product is available.

https://blog.theanimalrescuesite.greatergood.com/cat-gene-therapy/?

Too bad about the timeline. We truly have an unwanted kitten crisis. I've just read about 3 new litters born in my area that no shelter has room for. Poor little babies.

[hlthe2b]

1. Goodnews for feral cats; domestic cats will no longer be protected against life-threatening uterine

infections, cancer of the ovaries, or uterus, or possibly the increased risk of mammary gland cancer in intact females (albeit that is depending on what will be shown to happen with fluctuating estrogen/progesterone levels after this gene therapy).

But, I see this as an incredible aid in dealing with population control in feral cats. Still.... unintended consequences need to be closely looked at.

[hermetic]

2. Well sure

That's why we're looking at 5 years, or more, of studies. I'd like to think we'd still have the option of spay/neuter, as well as this.

[hlthe2b]

3. One would hope, but marketers of a 'non-surgical, non-invasive solution" would likely drown

out the "but...." of their well-meaning and knowledgeable veterinarians--especially once the internet and social media"experts" get involved.

Still, I'm hopeful. Like I said, I see this as invaluable--not only in feral cats but potentially other species eventually as well.

[getagrip_already]

4. This has scary implications for forced sterilization in humans....

Just projecting. Great for cats though.

There have been way too many cases of forced sterilization of humans though by doctors for racist reasons. Many within the past few decades.

This would make that much more difficult to detect.

Scary.

[Karadeniz]

5. The ferals still need to be trapped. The article doesn't spell out if one shot lasts a lifetime. One

good thing about trapping and going to the vet is that ear mites can be treated, feline leukemia and AIDS can be tested for, a flea preventative given, ring worm investigated... lots of benefits to trapping and sedating for a surgery.