About ScienceCats

ScienceCats is a 'citizen-science' project based at the School of Biological Sciences at the University of Bristol, and  forms part of a six-year PhD veterinary parasitology research study (to be completed by 2023).

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The project is investigating a widespread roundworm parasite called Toxocara cati that is known to infect domestic cats as definitive hosts, but also wildlife, and in some cases humans.

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The main focus of the work is to examine wildlife (in particular small mammal prey animals such as rodents and shrews) as potential infection sources for cats. This will help us to develop better understanding about disease transmission pathways, patterns and how much of a risk hunting behaviour is for parasite transmission.

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To do this, we are collecting data on cat-hunting behaviour using a questionnaire, and  asking UK cat owners to contribute dead animal specimens ('presents'!) that their cats bring home for laboratory analysis.

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We are now at the analysis stage of the project, so no longer recruiting volunteers for the study. If want to find out more about the work or other ways to get involved, please check out the pages on this website or feel free to get in touch.