As Basepaws sees it, a deeper understanding of the genetic factors that contribute to feline longevity can support cats to live longer, but more importantly, do so in ways that help them enjoy their golden years with fewer instances of pain and illness. To make this a reality for all cats, Basepaws initiated a longevity research partnership with Ernie Ward, DVM, CVFT, founder of Project 25, which aims to extend feline life expectancy by 25 percent by the year 2025. Project 25 goals include increasing longevity, improving quality of life, decreasing disease and pain, and elevating the ways that we interact and communicate with our pets. As we close out November’s theme of Senior Cat Month, we’d like to share some of the details of Basepaws’ longevity research as part of this exciting collaboration.
There are ongoing studies focused on canine longevity, but no such studies exist for cats. Project 25 is one of many in which Basepaws is participating to put cats front-and-center in pioneering genetics and pet health research. This work complements the convenient at-home health testing products that we provide pet parents like you to help cats everywhere live longer, healthier, and happier lives.
The future of pet health begins with a better understanding of the building blocks of life. Basepaws is leading the next generation of diagnostic testing that will allow us to prevent disease, enhance quality of life, and extend longevity. I’m honored to be a part of this groundbreaking company committed to creating a better future for animals.
~Dr. Ernie Ward
Though individualized feline healthcare strategies are important at every life stage, they are especially important as our cats move into the senior years of life (10 years of age and older). As discussed in the recently published 2021 AAFP Feline Senior Care Guidelines, the incidence of many diseases increases as cats age, and comorbidities also become more common.
As a part of Project 25, Basepaws aims to discover the genetic predispositions of thriving, healthy senior cats who live well into their late teens and even twenties. Longevity is a complex trait, and we are actively recruiting a large number of senior cats, aged 17 years and older, to maximize our chances of identifying longevity-related genetic markers. Our goal is to recruit a total of 500 cats for this research endeavor, and we want you to be a part of this important work!
