Researchers at the University of Montreal (UdeM) have developed an innovative method to study pain in cats using brain scans while they are awake. By embedding electrodes into knitted wool hats, the team created a non-invasive way to monitor brain activity without the discomfort of traditional methods. This breakthrough is particularly significant for studying chronic pain in felines, as osteoarthritis affects over 25% of adult cats and becomes more prevalent with age.
Traditional electrode setups proved ineffective, as cats would shake them off or chew on the wires. To address this, researchers designed soft, crocheted beanies that comfortably held the sensors in place. “We had the idea of the little knitted hat that would keep the electrodes in place,” explained Aude Castel, an assistant professor at UdeM. The study involved 11 adult cats with osteoarthritis, who were exposed to sensory stimuli such as colored lights and scents to assess whether these stimuli could help reduce pain. Using positive reinforcement, including treats, the team ensured the cats tolerated the hats, allowing for successful data collection.
Published in Journal of Neuroscience Methods, the study confirmed that this novel approach effectively captures brain activity in response to sensory stimulation, offering new insights into feline pain perception. The researchers now aim to secure funding to develop an EEG signature for chronic pain, which could eventually lead to automated pain detection in cats. This advancement could transform how veterinarians diagnose and manage chronic pain, improving the quality of life for aging felines.
