Missing from the discussion about cloned - animal or human

[question everything]

is the fact that DNA is just one factor in the fully mature "item" - a cat or a human being. It is the old debate of nature vs. nurture.

Yes, the DNA is identical, but, first the exposure during development - uterus vs. incubation or a surrogate mom - is different.

We develop our personality - yes, cats, too - as we grow up, shaped by the events that surround us. Other people and animals, the air that we breath, the antigens to which we are exposed, even world events.

This woman who paid 50 big ones to replace her beloved cat that she had for 17 years is going to be very disappointed. And the cat will be miserable, expected to behave in a certain way.

Multiply this several folds for humans and one has to wonder why this aspect has not been raised with all the "ethical" concerns dominating the debate.

[Maple]

1. Identical twins are natural clones

and while they often behave in a similar manner, are very distinct people on their own.

[question everything]

6. That's right! And I wonder whether they, too, are expected

to behave in a similar way and then disappoint their parents.

[histohoney]

2. Cloned

animals are more prone to health problems as well.
This could grow up to be one sick kitty.

[mimitabby]

4. clone life

yes, that's true. this cat might not live 17 years..

[Maple]

5. There is nothing indicating that

Dolly died 'young', but Dolly was cloned from an adult sheep.

Cloning itself is in its infancy. We'll do better with it as time goes on, and we learn more.

[mimitabby]

3. the cat

i'm not too worried about the cat..
it is probably properly socialized and will live the life
of Rily. Don't anthropomophise cats.
They are happy to be who they are..
and if its human thinks it is someone else,
I am quite certain the cat won't give a damn.

and although i am a volunteer for feral cat rescue,
i realize this lady would probably have blown her 50K
on something ele anyway.. like a new bathroom or something.
why not a cat?