Morris Animal Foundation accepting research proposals for feline oncologic advancements

Morris Animal Foundation (MAF) is now accepting research proposals to accelerate the field of feline oncology, with a preference for innovations likely to result in substantial diagnostic or therapeutic advances.

According to an organizational release,¹ this proposal request is funded by Blue Buffalo, a MAF donor since 2006, and Canadian company Pet Valu through the foundation’s Donor-Inspired Study program.

“Cancer is a leading cause of death in cats, with one in five cats diagnosed with cancer in their lifetimes,” said Janet Patterson-Kane, BVSc, PhD, FRCVS, Morris Animal Foundation chief scientific officer. “Unfortunately, we don’t see as much research dedicated to feline cancer as we do to canine cancer. The Foundation is working to address this imbalance and improve care for our feline companions.”

Common feline cancers include lymphoma, squamous cell carcinoma, fibrosarcoma, injection-site sarcomas, and mammary tumors.¹ Outcomes range for cats diagnosed based on cancer type and stage, thus additional research is needed to improve diagnostic tools, treatment options, pain management, and even find cures.

“Blue Buffalo was founded on a promise made to a lovable Airedale named Blue who struggled with cancer, a leading cause of death in pets,” expressed Denise DeVeer, Canada national accounts manager of Blue Buffalo, in the release. “Delivering on that promise to end pet cancer continues to be at the heart of what we do every day as we make the best pet food possible for dogs and cats with high-quality, natural ingredients and support important research to help end the devastating effects of pet cancer.”

“Pet Valu understands the deep connection devoted pet lovers have with their pets and how difficult it is when a pet develops a serious illness,” said Tanbir Grover, chief digital and marketing officer at Pet Valu. “We are so thankful to the devoted pet lovers who helped us raise funds to support research that may advance diagnoses and enhance therapies for pet cancers in the future.”¹

Investigators exclusively from Canadian institutions are eligible to apply to this request for proposal, and the research must be conducted in Canada. Research studies focused on other species or from other geographic regions will not be considered. The maximum project duration is 24 months, and the maximum study budget is $52,500 CAD ($41,777 USD). According to the release,¹ applications will be reviewed and rated by a scientific advisory board consisting of subject matter experts, and based on impact and scientific rigor.

Reference

Morris Animal Foundation accepting research proposals for feline cancer. News release. Morris Animal Foundation. July 28, 2022. Accessed August 3, 2022. https://www.morrisanimalfoundation.org/article/feline-cancer-research-funding-open