Researchers at Texas A&M University recently announced they’ve cloned a cat: a frisky shorthair kitten called “cc” for “copycat.” The cat is the first reported success in cloning a pet, and Genetic Savings & Clone, the company that funded the Texas researchers, says it expects cloning pets to become a booming business. The company plans to eventually charge pet owners $20,000 to clone their kitty or pooch.
The concept is controversial: For starters, the Humane Society of the United States says cloning may contribute to the pet overpopulation problem. There’s also some evidence cloned animals age more quickly. Plus, pet owners can’t expect a carbon copy of their beloved pet. (Although genetically identical, “cc” has different markings than the lab cat whose cell was used for the cloning.)
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Yet, despite the debate, we couldn’t help but think of a few cool cats to clone:
– Cat in the Hat: He’s stylish (gotta love his hat) and talented (he can balance a goldfish bowl on his umbrella tip). But watch out: This cat has a habit of dropping by uninvited.
Elvis Presley: Before Elvis was King, he was called the Hillbilly Cat. Claims of Elvis sightings would have new credibility.
Blackie: According to “Guiness World Records,” this pampered puss is the world’s richest cat. After inheriting $24 million from its wealthy owner, Blackie can easily afford to make cloning his pet project.
Etoile de Nuit: The cat’s owner says Etoile de Nuit woke her one night by clawing at her face and meowing loudly. The owner found her bedroom in flames and couldn’t believe the cat stayed to wake her rather than escape through an open window. This fab feline (and other pet heroes at www.miraclepets.tv) may deserve a chance at a repeat performance.
Bastet: This Egyptian cat god was considered a household goddess and protector of children. Worth bringing back, don’t you think?
Mr. Tinkles, the villain in “Cats and Dogs”: Was it nature or nurture that made this sourpuss Persian an evil hothead? Maybe his clone could end the debate.