NIH funds new cat experiments despite pledge to phase them out, watchdog reports

• The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has allocated $1.7 million in grants for new laboratory experiments on cats, despite previous commitments to phase out such research. Dr. Nicole Kleinstreuer, the NIH acting deputy director, stated in a podcast that the organization is working to end studies involving dogs and cats, describing it as unconscionable, yet acknowledged legal constraints prevent the immediate cessation of existing grants.
• This funding decision raises concerns about the NIH's commitment to animal welfare and transparency, as it contradicts public statements made by officials. The continuation of cat experiments may provoke further scrutiny from animal rights advocates and watchdog organizations, potentially impacting the NIH's reputation and funding in the future.

— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System