The Domestic Cat’s Connection to Conservation

The Domestic Cat’s Connection to Conservation

For more than 30 years, domestic cats have helped CREW scientists unlock the mysteries of felid reproduction. Domestic cats share a close genetic lineage and similar physiology with their wild counterparts, so they serve as vital models for imperiled cat species.

Scientists were first able to develop many assisted reproductive technologies (ART), including semen freezing, artificial insemination (AI), in vitro fertilization (IVF), and embryo transfer (ET) in domestic cats before applying them to other felid species.

Connection to the Imperiled Cat Signature Project

By working with domestic cats, we improve how sperm is collected and frozen, developing methods that are simpler, safer, and more reliable. These advances make it possible for veterinarians and conservation teams to preserve important genetics and apply those tools to help endangered cat species.

Non-invasive hormone monitoring in domestic cats improves our understanding of reproduction. This work helps identify estrus, improve pregnancy detection, and evaluate reproductive function.

Developing new approaches to artificially inseminate cats is leading to more pregnancies while using less sperm. This makes it easier to help cats reproduce when sperm is limited and extend these advances to endangered cat species.

Improving the Lives of Domestic Cats with Science

At CREW, we use science to help domestic cats live healthier, less stressful lives. Our studies focus on improving the health, welfare, and management of cats in shelters, communities, and homes. We develop science-based solutions to challenges facing cats and their caregivers.

Reducing stress through housing and enrichment
We explore how shelter design, housing setups, and cat-specific enrichment affect stress, immune function, and behavior. By giving cats more choice, control, and opportunities to express natural behaviors, our research identifies evidence-based ways to reduce chronic stress, lower disease risk, improve behavior, and increase adoptability in shelters. These findings also improve the quality of life for cats in home environments.

Advancing non-surgical contraception to support cat population management

CREW is developing and evaluating innovative, non-surgical contraception methods that could complement traditional trap-neuter-return (TNR) programs. These approaches aim to expand access to humane sterilization beyond surgical spays and neuters, reduce free-roaming cat populations, and improve outcomes for community cats, especially in locations where surgery is difficult to access.

Improving hydration to reduce kidney disease risk

Chronic kidney disease is one of the most common health problems in domestic cats. Our research explores ways to encourage better water intake, helping cats stay hydrated to support long-term kidney health and overall well-being.

Domestic cats from CREW are placed into loving homes where they can enjoy life with their forever families. If you’re interested in adopting a CREW cat, please email [email protected] or fill out an adoption application.