In hopes of finding new ways to aid those impaired with spinal cord problems, scientists frequently study cats. Cats are prime candidates for spinal cord research because they are more similar to humans than rodents and a significant amount of information about feline neuroscience already exists. Using laboratory animals also allows scientists to control factors that might otherwise confuse their results. Although some researchers work with computer models, they are not currently advanced enough to simulate the damage and recovery of spinal cords.