🫂 CAT COMMUNITY
Cat brains age like ours—and could help scientists to understand cognitive decline

Researchers are finding that our aging cats could be the unlikely key to understanding human brain decline. Unlike lab mice, which barely live long enough to wrinkle, cats’ brains start showing the same wear and tear we see in aging humans—think memory slips and some serious brain shrinkage. This discovery is part of the Translating Time project, which looks at brain development and aging in over 150 mammal species. The hope? To help us finally crack the code on diseases like Alzheimer’s.

The Translating Time project began as a tool for mapping brain development across species, but scientists soon realized the need to dig into aging, too. Mice don’t quite cut it—they don’t live long enough or develop those hallmark “brain clogs” like we do. Enter cats, who live longer, age more like us, and might just be the perfect match for studying what really happens when our brains start feeling the years.

So now, cats (and even dogs) are being recruited as models for studying aging in a way that actually mirrors human life. With the Catage Project, scientists are gathering data from thousands of cats—getting brain scans, health records, and tracking what happens as they get older. Turns out, by the time a cat hits 15, it’s basically an 80-year-old human, and some even show Alzheimer’s-like symptoms. These furry friends might just be helping us unravel what aging does to the brain—no lab mice required.

🫂 CAT CULTURE
Maine Coon Cat's Persistent Way of Demanding Treats Is Totally On-Point

Cats are clever little creatures, sometimes a little too clever for their own good! My own trio has learned to expect nightly treats, assembling in the kitchen like clockwork because, let’s be honest, I’ve trained them (or maybe they’ve trained me). But Rocco, a brilliant Maine Coon, takes it to the next level—he’s learned to ring a bell for treats on demand, proving once again that cats are masters of getting exactly what they want.

@mryan108

#creatorsearchinsights heres moody orange mainecoon cat. #orangemainecoon #mainecooncat #orangecatbehavior

Rocco’s owner, @mryan108, clearly knows how to tap into this cat’s impressive intelligence, teaching him tricks like high-fives and paw shakes that would make any dog jealous. With 205,000 followers cheering him on, Rocco’s fans are in awe, leaving comments like, “As many times as it takes, LINDA!” and “Extra treats, please!” Honestly, it’s hard not to be charmed by this bell-ringing genius. If there’s a feline who could upstage a dog in trick mastery, Rocco’s the one!

🧑‍🔬 SCIENCE SCOOP
Cats Can Have a Profound Effect on Your Physical And Mental Health

Cats have been by our side for ages, giving us comfort, laughs, and sometimes a little bit of sass. But here’s the kicker: science says that living with these little furballs can seriously boost our physical and mental health. Of course, like any relationship, owning a cat has its highs and a few risks to keep in mind.

The Good Stuff: How Cats Benefit Your Health 👇

• Heart Health Hero: Hanging out with cats can lower your risk of heart disease and stroke. They may be the ultimate chill pill.

• Gut Gains: Having a cat is linked to better gut health in women, which means lower inflammation and even better blood sugar control.

• Mood Boost: Cats can improve mental well-being and help with depression—one purr at a time.

• Social Support: Whether you’re single or just like your space, cats offer connection and purpose without the fuss.

Cats are clearly pulling their weight in the health department, but remember, it’s a two-way street. Knowing the perks and potential pitfalls keeps you and your cat living your best lives together. After all, they’re not just pets—they’re partners in health.