CatWalk XT

CatWalk XT is a gait analysis system developed by Noldus for quantitative assessment of footfalls and locomotion in rats, mice, and other small mammals. It measures over 50 gait parameters and is designed for preclinical researchers studying neurological and musculoskeletal disorders, providing validated data across a wide range of disease models.

The system is built around a free-walking paradigm, allowing animals to traverse a glass walkway at a pace dictated by their own condition or endurance. This approach captures natural gait behavior, in contrast to treadmill-based systems where animals must match an imposed speed, which can introduce stress and mask natural locomotion patterns.

How CatWalk XT Works

• An animal voluntarily walks across a glass walkway; each time a paw contacts the glass surface, it reflects green light emitted within the walkway.
• A high-speed camera positioned underneath the walkway captures this reflected green light, recording actual footprints in real time.
• Dedicated software automatically detects footprints, quantifies gait parameters, identifies errors, and provides visualization of results.
• In addition to footprint data, a broad range of other gait and locomotion parameters are automatically detected from each run.

Gait Parameters and Measurement Capabilities

• Measures more than 50 distinct gait parameters per session.
• Captures data relevant to conditions such as Parkinson's disease, ataxia, traumatic brain injury (TBI), stroke, and pain research.
• Supports assessment of gait changes resulting from genetic, chemical, or physical injury, provided the animal can traverse the walkway.
• Delivers translationally relevant data applicable to preclinical models of neurological and musculoskeletal disorders.

Applications and Validated Disease Models

• CatWalk gait analysis has been validated for use in a range of experimental and research procedures involving neurological disorders and lesions.
• Documented applications include Parkinson's disease, ataxia, TBI, stroke, and pain research models.
• Suitable for studies where gait is affected by genetic manipulation, chemical induction, or physical injury.
• Used across a variety of laboratory settings, including the Mouse NeuroBehavior Core at Columbia University.

System Features

• Illuminated footprint technology enables precise detection of actual paw contacts on the glass surface.
• High-speed camera captures footfall events with accuracy sufficient for detailed parameter extraction.
• Software provides automatic detection of run errors and easy visualization of results.
• Designed for straightforward operation, with reported ease of training new users on the system.

CatWalk XT has been in use in research laboratories since at least 2015 and has accumulated a substantial publication record across multiple disease models. Noldus provides supporting resources including an e-book guide covering gait measurement methodology, parameter interpretation, and best practices for preclinical study design.