Scientists have developed the first large-scale genetic map of cancers in domestic cats, revealing that many tumour-driving genes are shared with humans and dogs.

The discovery could open new opportunities for understanding cancer biology and improving treatments across species.

Published in the journal Science, the study provides the most comprehensive genetic analysis of feline cancers to date. It also introduces a publicly available resource that researchers around the world can use to explore the genetics of cancer in cats.

Cancer is one of the leading causes of illness and death among cats, yet relatively little is known about the genetic factors that contribute to these diseases.

To better understand how cancers develop in cats, researchers examined tumour samples from nearly 500 domestic cats collected from five countries. By analysing the DNA from these tumours, the team identified key genetic mutations linked to cancer development.

The findings revealed strong similarities between cancer-related genes in cats, humans and dogs. Scientists identified several “driver genes” that play major roles in the development of certain cancers, including aggressive mammary tumours.

One gene in particular stood out in feline mammary cancer. Mutations in the gene FBXW7 were found in more than half of the cat tumours analysed. In human breast cancer, alterations in the same gene are associated with poorer patient outcomes, mirroring the pattern seen in cats.

Researchers also discovered similarities with human cancer genes in tumours affecting the blood, bones, lungs, skin, gastrointestinal system and central nervous system.

Because cats live closely with humans and share many aspects of the same environment, they are exposed to similar environmental risk factors that may contribute to cancer. This overlap may help scientists better understand how environmental influences affect cancer risk in both species.

According to researcher Wood, the findings could provide valuable insights into how cancer develops and how environmental factors shape cancer risk.

“This study 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,” Wood said.

Bailey Francis, co-first author of the study at the Wellcome Sanger Institute, said the research could also support cancer studies in dogs.

“When knowledge and data flow between different disciplines, we can all benefit,” Francis noted.

The researchers sequenced DNA from tumour tissue samples that veterinarians had previously collected for diagnostic testing.

Their findings suggest that some cancer treatments developed for humans could potentially be tested in cats. At the same time, insights gained from clinical trials in cats may help guide future human cancer therapies.

This collaborative approach, often called the One Medicine concept, encourages cooperation between veterinary and human medical research. The goal is to ensure discoveries in one field can accelerate progress in the other, benefiting both animals and people.

Dr Louise van der Weyden, senior author of the study at the Wellcome Sanger Institute, said the research marks an important step toward more advanced cancer care for cats.

“We can now begin to move toward precision feline oncology,” she said, “bringing diagnostic and treatment options for cats closer to those already available for dogs with cancer—and, ultimately, for humans.” (Nigerian Tribune)

• Scientists have created the first large-scale genetic map of feline cancers, uncovering shared tumor-driving genes with humans and dogs and pointing toward new cross-species insights into cancer

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