Research & Publications
We lead in research, contributing to, collaborate and sponsor, academic projects on feline health, virology, coat and eye colour genetics and cat well-being. Here are some of our projects and links to external publications that are related to Belle Ayr.
Working with Professor Marie Abitbol, of the Université de Lyon, France
Contributed to the identification of the Copper Gene in the Golden British Shorthair (BSH/BLH) cats, 2022.
Contributed in The Atai Blue Eye Gene DBE, in the Rociri Elvis (DBEre) in the Maine Coon cats, 2024.
Confirming cats tested have 'normal' hearing in the DBEre and DBEalt genes, 2024.
We have looked at the health in the new Corin gene, confirming there are no Blood pressure-associated issue, 2025.
Working with Professor Dr. Addie, we have contributed to research in cat health
We have researched and co-authored papers on FIP, we identified the AGP marker for FIP remission to be under 500 “A sustained return to normal levels of AGP was the most rapid and consistent indicator for differentiating recovery from remission following treatment for FIP.” 2022.
FCoV prevention and cure treatment with GS, EIDD, or Molnupiravir, 2021-2022.
FCV and Feline periodontal disease, treatment and cure, 2023-2025.
In collaboration with Dr. Judy Hao, Petgeno Laboratories, China
We conducted research on the Silver and Corin gene related to health in BSH/ BLH cats, 2024.
Independent Funded Research
Restoring tear ducts in brachycephalic Exotic Shorthairs cats, 2022-2025.
FHV treatment and “cure” in as much as the cat has recovered, has a FHV negative PCR result, and does not relapse, 2023.
BAER Hearing Research
Research project in collaboration with Professor Marie Abitbol, the University of Lyon and The University of Glasgow Small Animal Hospital
Exploring Cat Blood Pressure: Testing Across Generations
Research project in collaboration with Professor Marie Abitbol, University of Lyon, Dr. Judy Hao, Petgeno Laboratories and Robertson and Orr Veterinary Specialists.
How We Started, a Conversation with Petplan
In a recent conversation with Petplan, Belle Ayr’s Kristina Macaulay discusses how and why she started the cattery and why ethics and genetics matter.
Petplan Interviews Belle Ayr
Pet Plan Insurance interviews Belle Ayr about choosing and keeping a stud cat.
Copper Gene Mutation Identified
We contributed genetic DNA, across 4 generations which lead to the discover of the CORIN gene.
The gene mutation that causes the distinctive copper colouring in British cats has been discovered by Professor Marie Abitbol of the Université de Lyon.
Distinguishing Recovery from Remission in FIP
In collaboration and co-author with Dr. Diane Addie, we looked at identifying key markers that confirms a cat is cured from Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP).
This study provides a useful model for differentiating recovery from chronic coronavirus disease using acute phase protein monitoring.
Prevention of Faecal FCoV Shedding
Dr. Diane Addie, et al, have published a paper on the efficacy of using MutianX to stop the shedding of the FCoV virus.
Belle Ayr was pleased to provide the funding that enabled the publication of this research.