Multiple sclerosis: is the domestic cat involved?

Recent evidence suggests a possible viral aetiology of multiple sclerosis (MS). The present hypothesis proposes a relationship between MS and a demyelinating condition in the central nervous system of cats from which a paramyxovirus has been isolated. The theory attempts to relate the distribution and incidence of MS with the keeping of cats as household pets. The incidence of MS is explained on the basis of a human susceptibility factor, perhaps the histocompatibility antigens and the onset, remissions and relapse of MS are considered to be related to stressful situations which trigger a persistent virus.