Accurate high quality gait data
CatWalk
Assess natural free walking gait and locomotion data in rodents. CatWalk collects over 50 precise and validated gait parameters, allowing you to perform in depth research on various gait-related disease models.
Natural walking
low light stress free method
Easy to use
save time and resources
Versatile system
one device for all small mammals
How does
CatWalk work?
Train
Properly training your animals is essential in obtaining natural and consistent data
Record
As the animal traverses the walkway a high-definition camera automatically captures and classifies the footprints
Analyze
Choose the parameters you want to analyze and instantly have access to your data and graphs
Get CatWalk for your lab
CatWalk is the most used automated gait analysis system and therefore is a must get for any lab considering using gait as a read-out parameter.
CatWalk
Ideal system for studying diseases like Parkinson's disease, Traumatic brain injury or any other motor-related deficiencies
Hardware setup that works in low light with a goalbox to incentivize natural walking
High-definition camera for accurate and detailed footprint detection
Build your complete solution
Hardware
We offer a wide range of cameras, lighting solutions, and experimental apparatuses designed to work seamlessly with CatWalk XT.
NoldusCare
Add an additional year of NoldusCare to keep your software performing at its best. Includes the latest features, ongoing technical support, and access to the Noldus Academy. The first year is included free of charge.
Remote training
Ensure a strong start with our remote training sessions. Led by experienced Noldus trainers, these sessions help you quickly become familiar with the software.
Hardware Options
CatWalk Hardware
Complete CatWalk XT hardware system including walkway, camera, and illumination unit.
NoldusCare Extensions
NoldusCare CatWalk
1 additional year of NoldusCare for CatWalk XT. Includes updates, support, and Noldus Academy access.
Training Packages
CatWalk Training (Remote)
Remote training session covering CatWalk XT setup, data acquisition, and analysis workflows.
Benefits of CatWalk
Why should I use CatWalk?
When you choose to use CatWalk in your lab you are employing the most widely used gait analysis system.
Measure natural gait patterns
Natural gait is more translationally valuable in most cases than measuring gait on a treadmill. The animals don't compensate their gait to match the speed of the treadmill.
Detailed paw print identification
CatWalk only detects the contact service with the paw on the walkway, no assumptions or misidentified body parts. This results in true and high-quality data ideal for measuring subtle gait deviations.
Low stress method
The low light, trained animals and natural walking combine to make CatWalk a low stress method, which is essential for obtaining relevant results.
No black box
You always have access to your full data set allowing for complete data transparency. You can always see what CatWalk is doing and correct where needed.
CatWalk in practice
Go behind the scenes and see how gait analysis with CatWalk is done
Columbia University
Gait analysis as the lab's backbone
Look inside the Mouse NeuroBehavior Core at Columbia University. Here, Dr. Mu Yang shares her experience with using CatWalk and other Noldus behavioral tools and explains how easy it is to train new users to operate these systems.
NeuroPore Therapies
Studying Parkinson's with gait
NeuroPore Therapies does important research in the field of neurodegenerative disorders. Dr. Diana Price, Dr. Asma Khan and Robert Johnson are currently using CatWalk to study Parkinson's disease.
Frequently asked questions
About CatWalk
Standardize your training, use consistent run inclusion criteria, and keep the same corridor/lighting setup. CatWalk supports reviewing and filtering runs while preserving full traceability.
You'll need the CatWalk hardware, a suitable PC/workstation, and a room for consistent recordings. Installation and calibration ensure repeatable measurements, which are made easy with our new calibration tool.
Yes, CatWalk output can be exported so you can analyze results in your preferred stats tools (R/Python/Prism/SPSS). You keep a clear link between processed parameters and the underlying recorded runs.
Yes, though in severe models, any system can face challenging runs. CatWalk lets you easily review runs, set the appropriate criteria and correct classifications when needed.
CatWalk is a widely used benchmark for natural, free-walking gait, with rich footprint/contact metrics and transparent, reviewable analysis. Treadmill systems focus on strict speed control which causes animals to compensate their gait and become stressed, while other tools prioritize compact, automated mouse only workflows.
Want more info?
Book a demo!
Does this solution sound interesting to you? But do you want more info before making a final decision? Feel free to book a demo with us! We're happy to help you make a choice that fits your needs.