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22 pages, 14842 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Genetic Diversity and Evolution of Viruses Infecting Felis catus: A Global Perspective

by Shi-Jia Le, Gen-Yang Xin, Wei-Chen Wu and Mang Shi

Viruses 2023, 15(6), 1338; https://doi.org/10.3390/v15061338 - 7 Jun 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3194

Abstract

Cats harbor many important viral pathogens, and the knowledge of their diversity has been greatly expanded thanks to increasingly popular molecular sequencing techniques. While the diversity is mostly described in numerous regionally defined studies, there lacks a global overview of the diversity for [...] Read more.

Cats harbor many important viral pathogens, and the knowledge of their diversity has been greatly expanded thanks to increasingly popular molecular sequencing techniques. While the diversity is mostly described in numerous regionally defined studies, there lacks a global overview of the diversity for the majority of cat viruses, and therefore our understanding of the evolution and epidemiology of these viruses was generally inadequate. In this study, we analyzed 12,377 genetic sequences from 25 cat virus species and conducted comprehensive phylodynamic analyses. It revealed, for the first time, the global diversity for all cat viruses known to date, taking into account highly virulent strains and vaccine strains. From there, we further characterized and compared the geographic expansion patterns, temporal dynamics and recombination frequencies of these viruses. While respiratory pathogens such as feline calicivirus showed some degree of geographical panmixes, the other viral species are more geographically defined. Furthermore, recombination rates were much higher in feline parvovirus, feline coronavirus, feline calicivirus and feline foamy virus than the other feline virus species. Collectively, our findings deepen the understanding of the evolutionary and epidemiological features of cat viruses, which in turn provide important insight into the prevention and control of cat pathogens. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feline Viruses and Viral Diseases 2.0)

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17 pages, 4782 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Combination Antiretroviral Therapy and Immunophenotype of Feline Immunodeficiency Virus

by Jeffrey Kim, Elisa S. Behzadi, Mary Nehring, Scott Carver, Shannon R. Cowan, Megan K. Conry, Jennifer E. Rawlinson, Sue VandeWoude and Craig A. Miller

Viruses 2023, 15(4), 822; https://doi.org/10.3390/v15040822 - 24 Mar 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 6301

Abstract

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) causes progressive immune dysfunction in cats similar to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in humans. Although combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) is effective against HIV, there is no definitive therapy to improve clinical outcomes in cats with FIV. This study therefore [...] Read more.

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) causes progressive immune dysfunction in cats similar to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in humans. Although combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) is effective against HIV, there is no definitive therapy to improve clinical outcomes in cats with FIV. This study therefore evaluated pharmacokinetics and clinical outcomes of cART (2.5 mg/kg Dolutegravir; 20 mg/kg Tenofovir; 40 mg/kg Emtricitabine) in FIV-infected domestic cats. Specific pathogen free cats were experimentally infected with FIV and administered either cART or placebo treatments (n = 6 each) for 18 weeks, while n = 6 naïve uninfected cats served as controls. Blood, saliva, and fine needle aspirates from mandibular lymph nodes were collected to quantify viral and proviral loads via digital droplet PCR and to assess lymphocyte immunophenotypes by flow cytometry. cART improved blood dyscrasias in FIV-infected cats, which normalized by week 16, while placebo cats remained neutropenic, although no significant difference in viremia was observed in the blood or saliva. cART-treated cats exhibited a Th2 immunophenotype with increasing proportions of CD4⁺CCR4⁺ cells compared to placebo cats, and cART restored Th17 cells compared to placebo-treated cats. Of the cART drugs, dolutegravir was the most stable and long-lasting. These findings provide a critical insight into novel cART formulations in FIV-infected cats and highlight their role as a potential animal model to evaluate the impact of cART on lentiviral infection and immune dysregulation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feline Viruses and Viral Diseases 2.0)

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11 pages, 844 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Domestic Cat Hepadnavirus: Molecular Epidemiology and Phylogeny in Cats in Hong Kong

by Paolo Capozza, Maura Carrai, Yan Ru Choi, Thomas Tu, Omid Nekouei, Gianvito Lanave, Vito Martella, Julia A. Beatty and Vanessa R. Barrs

Viruses 2023, 15(1), 150; https://doi.org/10.3390/v15010150 - 3 Jan 2023

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3335

Abstract

Domestic cat hepadnavirus (DCH) is an emerging virus related to the hepatitis B virus (HBV). The pathogenic potential of DCH in cats remains to be established. The molecular prevalence of DCH varies widely in the regions investigated so far. The aim of this [...] Read more.

Domestic cat hepadnavirus (DCH) is an emerging virus related to the hepatitis B virus (HBV). The pathogenic potential of DCH in cats remains to be established. The molecular prevalence of DCH varies widely in the regions investigated so far. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence, load, and risk factors for DCH detection among cats in Hong Kong, and to generate molecular and epidemiological data on the DCH strains circulating in cats in Hong Kong. DCH DNA was detected using DCH-specific qPCR in 57/513 (11.1%) residual diagnostic blood samples from owned cats. The median viral load was 8.85 × 10³ copies/mL of whole blood (range for the 5th to the 95th percentile, 3.33 × 10³ to 2.2 × 10⁵ copies per mL). Two outliers had higher viral loads of 1.88 × 10⁷ copies/mL and 4.90 × 10⁹ copies/mL. DCH was detected in cats from 3 months to 19 years of age. Sex, age, neuter status, breed, or elevated serum alanine aminotransferase were not statistically associated with DCH DNA detection. On phylogenetic analysis based on 12 complete genome sequences, the Hong Kong DCH viruses clustered in Genotype A with viruses from Australia and Asia (clade A1), distinct from viruses from Europe (clade A2). Sequence analysis found that DCH has similar epsilon and direct repeat regions to human HBV, suggesting a conserved method of replication. Based on our findings, the DCH strains circulating in Hong Kong are a continuum of the Asiatic strains. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feline Viruses and Viral Diseases 2.0)

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23 pages, 1520 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Clinicopathological and Epidemiological Findings in Pet Cats Naturally Infected with Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) in Australia

by Caroline Carlton, Jacqueline M. Norris, Evelyn Hall, Michael P. Ward, Stephanie Blank, Shelby Gilmore, Anjuli Dabydeen, Vivian Tran and Mark E. Westman

Viruses 2022, 14(10), 2177; https://doi.org/10.3390/v14102177 - 30 Sep 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3189

Abstract

Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) infection in experimentally infected domestic cats produces characteristic clinical manifestations including hematological changes, neurological disease, neoplasia (most notably lymphoma) and lymphopenia-mediated immunodeficiency predisposing cats to a range of secondary infections. Conflicting reports exist, however, with regard to disease associations [...] Read more.

Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) infection in experimentally infected domestic cats produces characteristic clinical manifestations including hematological changes, neurological disease, neoplasia (most notably lymphoma) and lymphopenia-mediated immunodeficiency predisposing cats to a range of secondary infections. Conflicting reports exist, however, with regard to disease associations and survival time in naturally FIV-infected cats. The purpose of this retrospective case–control study was to investigate the effect of natural FIV infection on hematological, blood biochemical and urinalysis parameters and survival time in three cohorts of pet cats in Australia. Cohorts 1 and 2 were recruited from a large veterinary hospital in Melbourne, Victoria (n = 525 and 282), while a third cohort consisted of cats recruited from around Australia as part of a FIV field vaccine efficacy trial (n = 425). FIV-infected cats in cohorts 1, 2 and 3 were found to have 15/37 (41%), 13/39 (33%) and 2/13 (15%) clinicopathological parameters significantly different to FIV-uninfected cats, respectively. Two changes in FIV-infected cats in cohort 1, hypochromia (low hemoglobin) and hyperglobulinemia, were outside the supplied reference intervals and should serve as diagnostic triggers for FIV testing. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis of cats in cohorts 1 and 2 combined did not find any difference between FIV-infected and FIV-uninfected cats, however a confounding factor was a large euthanasia rate within the first 12 months in both groups. Three significant (p < 0.05) spatial clusters of FIV infection were identified in Melbourne. A possible relationship between FIV infection status and socioeconomic disadvantage was discovered, based on three government indices of socioeconomic status (p < 0.001). Until longitudinal field studies are performed in Australia to further investigate the long-term effects of natural FIV infection, Australian veterinarians should consider FIV to be an important infection of pet cats, and recommend measures to prevent FIV infection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feline Viruses and Viral Diseases 2.0)

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17 pages, 3086 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Antiviral Effects of Adipose Tissue-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Secretome against Feline Calicivirus and Feline Herpesvirus Type 1

by Takahiro Teshima, Yuyo Yasumura, Ryohei Suzuki and Hirotaka Matsumoto

Viruses 2022, 14(8), 1687; https://doi.org/10.3390/v14081687 - 30 Jul 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2739

Abstract

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have excellent anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory capabilities and therapeutic effects in some viral diseases. The therapeutic impact of MSCs mainly relies on the paracrine effects of various secreted substances. Feline calicivirus (FCV) and feline herpesvirus type 1 (FHV1) are common [...] Read more.

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have excellent anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory capabilities and therapeutic effects in some viral diseases. The therapeutic impact of MSCs mainly relies on the paracrine effects of various secreted substances. Feline calicivirus (FCV) and feline herpesvirus type 1 (FHV1) are common and highly prevalent pathogens causing upper respiratory diseases, and FCV is associated with gingivostomatitis in cats. Recently, feline MSC treatment has been reported to improve the clinical symptoms of feline chronic gingivostomatitis, but the antiviral effects of feline MSCs on FCV and FHV1 are not known. In this study, we evaluated the antiviral efficacy of using feline MSC secretome as a conditioned medium on FCV and FHV1 viral replication in Crandell–Reese feline kidney (CRFK) cells, and RNA sequencing was used to analyze how the CRFK cells were altered by the MSC secretomes. The feline MSC secretome did not inhibit FCV or FHV1 viral entry into the CRFK cells but had antiviral effects on the replication of both FCV and FHV1 in a dose-dependent manner. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feline Viruses and Viral Diseases 2.0)

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14 pages, 1419 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Detection of Feline Coronavirus Variants in Cats without Feline Infectious Peritonitis

by Stéphanie Jähne, Sandra Felten, Michèle Bergmann, Katharina Erber, Kaspar Matiasek, Marina L. Meli, Regina Hofmann-Lehmann and Katrin Hartmann

Viruses 2022, 14(8), 1671; https://doi.org/10.3390/v14081671 - 29 Jul 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4696

Abstract

(1) Background: This study aimed to detect feline coronavirus (FCoV) and characterize spike (S) gene mutation profiles in cats suffering from diseases other than feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) using commercial real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and reevaluating results by sequencing. (2) [...] Read more.

(1) Background: This study aimed to detect feline coronavirus (FCoV) and characterize spike (S) gene mutation profiles in cats suffering from diseases other than feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) using commercial real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and reevaluating results by sequencing. (2) Methods: In 87 cats in which FIP was excluded by histopathology and immunohistochemistry, FCoV 7b gene and S gene mutation RT-qPCR was performed prospectively on incisional biopsies and fine-needle aspirates of different organs, body fluids, and feces. Samples positive for S gene mutations or mixed FCoV underwent sequencing. (3) Results: In 21/87 cats, FCoV RNA was detectable. S gene mutations were detected by commercial RT-qPCR (and a diagnostic algorithm that was used at the time of sample submission) in at least one sample in 14/21 cats (66.7%), with only mutated FCoV in 2/21, only mixed in 1/21, and different results in 11/21 cats; in the remaining 7/21 cats, RNA load was too low to differentiate. However, sequencing of 8 tissue samples and 8 fecal samples of 9 cats did not confirm mutated FCoV in any of the FCoV RNA-positive cats without FIP. (4) Conclusions: Sequencing results did not confirm results of the commercial S gene mutation RT-qPCR. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feline Viruses and Viral Diseases 2.0)

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16 pages, 7668 KiB

Open AccessArticle

In Vitro Growth, Receptor Usage and Pathogenesis of Feline Morbillivirus in the Natural Host

by Veljko Nikolin, Leticia Hatsue Sobreda Doi, Michael Sieg, Johannes Busch, Denny Böttcher, Laurence Tedeschi, Amélie Poulard, Vincent Staszewski, Thomas Vahlenkamp and Herve Poulet

Viruses 2022, 14(7), 1503; https://doi.org/10.3390/v14071503 - 8 Jul 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2738

Abstract

Feline morbillivirus (FeMV) is a recently discovered virus belonging to the genus Morbillivirus of the virus family Paramyxoviridae. Often, the virus has been detected in urine of cats with a history of urinary disease and has a worldwide distribution. Currently, it is [...] Read more.

Feline morbillivirus (FeMV) is a recently discovered virus belonging to the genus Morbillivirus of the virus family Paramyxoviridae. Often, the virus has been detected in urine of cats with a history of urinary disease and has a worldwide distribution. Currently, it is unclear which receptor the virus uses to enter the target cells. Furthermore, many aspects of FeMV biology in vivo, including tissue tropism, pathogenesis, and virus excretion in the natural host remain unclear. In this study we analyzed the replication of FeMV in various cell lines. Secondly, we tested if the presence of feline SLAMF1 (Signaling Lymphocytic Activation Molecule family 1/CD150, principal entry receptor for other members of the Morbillivirus genus) improved FeMV replication efficiency in vitro. Finally, to elucidate in vivo biology in cats, as a natural host for FeMV, we experimentally infected a group of cats and monitored clinical symptoms, viremia, and excretion of the virus during the course of 56 days. Our study showed that FeMV shares some features with other morbilliviruses like the use of the SLAMF1 receptor. For the first time, experimental infection of SPF cats showed that FeMV does not induce an acute clinical disease like other morbilliviruses but can induce lesions in the kidneys, including tubulointerstitial nephritis. Further investigations are needed to confirm the site and dynamics of replication of FeMV in the urinary tract and the longer-term impact of FeMV-induced lesions on the renal function. Whether FeMV infection can result in chronic kidney disease will require the monitoring of cats over a longer period. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feline Viruses and Viral Diseases 2.0)

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11 pages, 2132 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Low Intrahost and Interhost Genetic Diversity of Carnivore Protoparvovirus 1 in Domestic Cats during a Feline Panleukopenia Outbreak

by Xiuwan Wang, Maura Carrai, Kate Van Brussel, Shuo Feng, Julia A. Beatty, Mang Shi, Edward C. Holmes, Jun Li and Vanessa R. Barrs

Viruses 2022, 14(7), 1412; https://doi.org/10.3390/v14071412 - 28 Jun 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2435

Abstract

Feline panleukopenia (FPL), a highly contagious and frequently fatal disease of cats, is caused by Feline parvovirus (FPV) and Canine parvovirus (CPV). We characterised the diversity of these Carnivore protoparvovirus 1 variants in 18 faecal samples collected from domestic cats with FPL during [...] Read more.

Feline panleukopenia (FPL), a highly contagious and frequently fatal disease of cats, is caused by Feline parvovirus (FPV) and Canine parvovirus (CPV). We characterised the diversity of these Carnivore protoparvovirus 1 variants in 18 faecal samples collected from domestic cats with FPL during an outbreak, using targeted parvoviral DNA metagenomics to a mean depth of >10,000 × coverage per site. All samples comprised FPV alone. Compared with the reference FPV genome, isolated in 1967, 44 mutations were detected. Ten of these were nonsynonymous, including 9 in nonstructural genes and one in VP1/VP2 (Val232Ile), which was the only one to exhibit interhost diversity, being present in five sequences. There were five other polymorphic nucleotide positions, all with synonymous mutations. Intrahost diversity at all polymorphic positions was low, with subconsensus variant frequencies (SVF) of <1% except for two positions (2108 and 3208) in two samples with SVF of 1.1–1.3%. Intrahost nucleotide diversity was measured across the whole genome (0.7–1.5%) and for each gene and was highest in the NS2 gene of four samples (1.2–1.9%). Overall, intrahost viral genetic diversity was limited and most mutations observed were synonymous, indicative of a low background mutation rate and strong selective constraints. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feline Viruses and Viral Diseases 2.0)

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14 pages, 625 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Feline Panleukopenia Outbreaks and Risk Factors in Cats in Animal Shelters

by Teresa Rehme, Katrin Hartmann, Uwe Truyen, Yury Zablotski and Michèle Bergmann

Viruses 2022, 14(6), 1248; https://doi.org/10.3390/v14061248 - 8 Jun 2022

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 6419

Abstract

(1) Background: This study aimed to determine the risk factors for outbreaks of feline panleukopenia in shelters. (2) Methods: Four shelters (A−D) with 150 cats were included. Fecal samples were analyzed by parvovirus real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), including culture and sequencing of [...] Read more.

(1) Background: This study aimed to determine the risk factors for outbreaks of feline panleukopenia in shelters. (2) Methods: Four shelters (A−D) with 150 cats were included. Fecal samples were analyzed by parvovirus real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), including culture and sequencing of qPCR-positive samples. Information on cats, husbandry, hygiene, and infection management was evaluated to determine risk factors for feline panleukopenia and parvovirus shedding by logistic regression. (3) Results: Feline panleukopenia occurred in 28.0% (42/150) of cats (0 in shelter D). Shedding was found in 48.7% (73/150) (A: 21/73; B: 29/73; C: 7/73; D: 16/73). Of 73 qPCR-positive fecal samples, 65.8% (48/73) were culture-positive; sequencing revealed feline panleukopenia virus (FPV) isolates in 34/48 samples and vaccine virus isolate in 14/48; canine parvovirus was not detected. Presence of feline panleukopenia was significantly more likely in cats from shelter A (p < 0.05), unvaccinated cats (p < 0.001), and young cats (4 weeks to 2 years; p = 0.008). Parvovirus shedding was significantly more common in young cats (p < 0.001), cats with feline panleukopenia (p = 0.033), and group-housed cats (p = 0.025). (4) Conclusions: Vaccination is the most important measure to reduce the risk of feline panleukopenia in shelters. Risk of parvovirus shedding is especially high in young, group-housed cats. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feline Viruses and Viral Diseases 2.0)

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20 pages, 2686 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Fecal Feline Coronavirus RNA Shedding and Spike Gene Mutations in Cats with Feline Infectious Peritonitis Treated with GS-441524

by Marina L. Meli, Andrea M. Spiri, Katharina Zwicklbauer, Daniela Krentz, Sandra Felten, Michèle Bergmann, Roswitha Dorsch, Kaspar Matiasek, Martin Alberer, Laura Kolberg, Ulrich von Both, Katrin Hartmann and Regina Hofmann-Lehmann

Viruses 2022, 14(5), 1069; https://doi.org/10.3390/v14051069 - 17 May 2022

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 5439

Abstract

As previously demonstrated by our research group, the oral multicomponent drug Xraphconn^® containing GS-441524 was effective at curing otherwise fatal feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) in 18 feline coronavirus (FCoV)-infected cats. The aims of the current study were to investigate, using samples from [...] Read more.

As previously demonstrated by our research group, the oral multicomponent drug Xraphconn^® containing GS-441524 was effective at curing otherwise fatal feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) in 18 feline coronavirus (FCoV)-infected cats. The aims of the current study were to investigate, using samples from the same animals as in the previous study, (1) the effect of treatment on fecal viral RNA shedding; (2) the presence of spike gene mutations in different body compartments of these cats; and (3) viral RNA shedding, presence of spike gene mutations, and anti-FCoV antibody titers in samples of 12 companion cats cohabitating with the treated cats. Eleven of the eighteen treated FIP cats (61%) were shedding FCoV RNA in feces within the first three days after treatment initiation, but all of them tested negative by day 6. In one of these cats, fecal shedding reoccurred on day 83. Two cats initially negative in feces were transiently positive 1–4 weeks into the study. The remaining five cats never shed FCoV. Viral RNA loads in feces decreased with time comparable with those in blood and effusion. Specific spike gene mutations linked to systemic FCoV spread were consistently found in blood and effusion from treated FIP cats, but not in feces from treated or companion cats. A new mutation that led to a not yet described amino acid change was identified, indicating that further mutations may be involved in the development of FIP. Eight of the twelve companion cats shed FCoV in feces. All but one of the twelve companion cats had anti-FCoV antibodies. Oral treatment with GS-441524 effectively decreased viral RNA loads in feces, blood, and effusion in cats with FIP. Nonetheless, re-shedding can most likely occur if cats are re-exposed to FCoV by their companion cats. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feline Viruses and Viral Diseases 2.0)

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14 pages, 4640 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Role of Feline Coronavirus as Contributor to Diarrhea in Cats from Breeding Catteries

by Sandra Felten, Ute Klein-Richers, Stefan Unterer, Michèle Bergmann, Christian M. Leutenegger, Nikola Pantchev, Jörg Balzer, Yury Zablotski, Regina Hofmann-Lehmann and Katrin Hartmann

Viruses 2022, 14(5), 858; https://doi.org/10.3390/v14050858 - 21 Apr 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 4348

Abstract

(1) Background: Feline coronavirus infection (FCoV) is common in multi-cat environments. A role of FCoV in causing diarrhea is often assumed, but has not been proven. The aim of this study was to evaluate an association of FCoV infection with diarrhea in multi-cat [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Feline coronavirus infection (FCoV) is common in multi-cat environments. A role of FCoV in causing diarrhea is often assumed, but has not been proven. The aim of this study was to evaluate an association of FCoV infection with diarrhea in multi-cat environments. (2) Methods: The study included 234 cats from 37 catteries. Fecal samples were analyzed for FCoV RNA by reverse transcriptase quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Potential co-infections were determined by applying a qPCR panel on different potential enteropathogens and fecal flotation. A fecal scoring system was used to categorize feces as diarrheic or non-diarrheic. (3) Results: Of the 234 cats included, 23 had diarrhea. The prevalence of FCoV infection was 87.0% in cats with and 58.8% in cats without diarrhea. FCoV infection was significantly associated with diarrhea (Odds Ratio (OR) 5.01; p = 0.008). In addition, presence of Clostridium perfringens α toxin (OR 6.93; p = 0.032) and feline panleukopenia virus (OR 13.74; p = 0.004) were associated with an increased risk of diarrhea. There was no correlation between FCoV load and fecal score. FCoV-positive cats with co-infections were not more likely to have diarrhea than FCoV-positive cats without co-infections (p = 0.455). (4) Conclusions: FCoV infection is common in cats from catteries and can be associated with diarrhea. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feline Viruses and Viral Diseases 2.0)

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9 pages, 1201 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

A Pre- and Within-Pandemic Survey of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in Saliva Swabs from Stray Cats in Switzerland

by Evelyn Kuhlmeier, Tatjana Chan, Julia Klaus, Benita Pineroli, Esther Geisser, Regina Hofmann-Lehmann and Marina L. Meli

Viruses 2022, 14(4), 681; https://doi.org/10.3390/v14040681 - 25 Mar 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3542

Abstract

Cats have been shown to be highly susceptible to SARS-CoV-2, and transmission within the species has been demonstrated experimentally. In cats undergoing natural SARS-CoV-2 infections, human-to-animal transmission was mostly suspected. It can be postulated that, in stray cats with no or only minimal [...] Read more.

Cats have been shown to be highly susceptible to SARS-CoV-2, and transmission within the species has been demonstrated experimentally. In cats undergoing natural SARS-CoV-2 infections, human-to-animal transmission was mostly suspected. It can be postulated that, in stray cats with no or only minimal contact with humans, SARS-CoV-2 may pose a minor risk. The current study investigated the prevalence of active SARS-CoV-2 infections in Swiss stray cats using quantitative reverse transcriptase real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Saliva swabs from 1405 stray cats were collected in 14 Swiss cantons. The animals were sampled between February 2019 and February 2020 (pre-COVID-19 cohort: 523 cats) and between February 2020 and August 2021 (COVID-19 cohort: 882 cats). All the samples were tested by RT-qPCR, amplifying the envelope (E) gene and, in case of positive or inconclusive results, the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) gene of SARS-CoV-2. No SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA could be detected in any of the tested saliva swab samples. Our findings support the assumption that SARS-CoV-2 infections in stray cats are not highly prevalent in Switzerland. Nevertheless, the monitoring of stray cats and other susceptible animal species is necessary, since the “One Health” approach has been recognized as being essential to successfully fight the COVID-19 pandemic. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feline Viruses and Viral Diseases 2.0)

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16 pages, 2903 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Feline Calicivirus Leader of the Capsid Protein Has the Functional Characteristics of a Viroporin

by Yoatzin Peñaflor-Téllez, Bibiana Chávez-Munguía, Anel Lagunes-Guillén, Lizbeth Salazar-Villatoro and Ana Lorena Gutiérrez-Escolano

Viruses 2022, 14(3), 635; https://doi.org/10.3390/v14030635 - 18 Mar 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3525

Abstract

The leader of the capsid (LC) protein is exclusive to the Vesivirus genus, and it is needed for successful feline calicivirus (FCV) replication, as well as an efficient apoptosis induction through the mitochondrial pathway. In this work, we aimed to determine if the [...] Read more.

The leader of the capsid (LC) protein is exclusive to the Vesivirus genus, and it is needed for successful feline calicivirus (FCV) replication, as well as an efficient apoptosis induction through the mitochondrial pathway. In this work, we aimed to determine if the LC protein from the FCV is a viroporin. Although lacking in a transmembrane domain or an amphipathic helix, the LC protein from the FCV is toxic when expressed in bacteria and it oligomerizes through disulfide bonds, which are both key characteristics of viroporins. An electron microscopy analysis of LC-expressing E. coli cells suggest that the protein induces osmotic stress. Moreover, we found that the previously studied C40A LC mutant, that fails to induce apoptosis and that hinders the replication cycle, also oligomerizes but it has a reduced toxicity and fails to induce osmotic stress in bacteria. We propose that the LC protein is a viroporin that acts as a disulfide bond-dependent antimicrobial peptide, similar to the Ebola virus delta peptide. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feline Viruses and Viral Diseases 2.0)

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8 pages, 967 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Oropharyngeal Shedding of Gammaherpesvirus DNA by Cats, and Natural Infection of Salivary Epithelium

by Elizabeth C. Rose, Tiffany Y. Tse, Andrew W. Oates, Ken Jackson, Susanne Pfeiffer, Shannon L. Donahoe, Laura Setyo, Vanessa R. Barrs, Julia A. Beatty and Patricia A. Pesavento

Viruses 2022, 14(3), 566; https://doi.org/10.3390/v14030566 - 9 Mar 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3219

Abstract

Felis catus gammaherpesvirus-1 (FcaGHV1), a novel candidate oncogenic virus, infects cats worldwide. Whether the oropharynx is a site of virus shedding and persistence, and whether oronasal carcinomas harbor FcaGHV1 nucleic acid were investigated. In a prospective molecular epidemiological study, FcaGHV1 DNA was detected [...] Read more.

Felis catus gammaherpesvirus-1 (FcaGHV1), a novel candidate oncogenic virus, infects cats worldwide. Whether the oropharynx is a site of virus shedding and persistence, and whether oronasal carcinomas harbor FcaGHV1 nucleic acid were investigated. In a prospective molecular epidemiological study, FcaGHV1 DNA was detected by cPCR in oropharyngeal swabs from 26/155 (16.8%) of cats. Oropharyngeal shedding was less frequently detected in kittens ≤3 months of age (5/94, 5.3%) than in older animals; >3 months to ≤1 year: 8/26, 30.8%, (p = 0.001, OR 7.91, 95% CI (2.320, 26.979)); >1 year to ≤6 years: 10/20, 50%, (p < 0.001, OR 17.8 95% CI (5.065, 62.557)); >6 years: 3/15, 33% (p = 0.078). Provenance (shelter-owned/privately owned) was not associated with shedding. In situ hybridization (ISH) identified FcaGHV1-infected cells in salivary glandular epithelium but not in other oronasal tissues from two of three cats shedding viral DNA in the oropharynx. In a retrospective dataset of 11 oronasopharyngeal carcinomas, a single tumor tested positive for FcaGHV1 DNA by ISH, a papillary carcinoma, where scattered neoplastic cells showed discrete nuclear hybridization. These data support the oronasopharynx as a site of FcaGHV1 shedding, particularly after maternal antibodies are expected to decline. The salivary epithelium is identified as a potential site of FcaGHV1 persistence. No evidence supporting a role for FcaGHV1 in feline oronasal carcinomas was found in the examined tumours. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feline Viruses and Viral Diseases 2.0)

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11 pages, 1645 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of an Indirect ELISA Based on Spike Protein to Detect Antibodies against Feline Coronavirus

by Bo Dong, Gaoqiang Zhang, Xiaodong Zhang, Xufei Chen, Meiling Zhang, Linglin Li and Weiming Lin

Viruses 2021, 13(12), 2496; https://doi.org/10.3390/v13122496 - 13 Dec 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3529

Abstract

Feline coronavirus (FCoV) is a pathogenic virus commonly found in cats that causes a benign enteric illness and fatal systemic disease, feline infectious peritonitis. The development of serological diagnostic tools for FCoV is helpful for clinical diagnosis and epidemiological investigation. Therefore, this study [...] Read more.

Feline coronavirus (FCoV) is a pathogenic virus commonly found in cats that causes a benign enteric illness and fatal systemic disease, feline infectious peritonitis. The development of serological diagnostic tools for FCoV is helpful for clinical diagnosis and epidemiological investigation. Therefore, this study aimed to develop an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (iELISA) to detect antibodies against FCoV using histidine-tagged recombinant spike protein. FCoV S protein (1127–1400 aa) was expressed and used as an antigen to establish an ELISA. Mice and rabbits immunized with the protein produced antibodies that were recognized and bound to the protein. The intra-assay coefficient of variation (CV) was 1.15–5.04% and the inter-assay CV was 4.28–15.13%, suggesting an acceptable repeatability. iELISA did not cross-react with antisera against other feline viruses. The receiver operating characteristic curve analysis revealed an 86.7% sensitivity and 93.3% specificity for iELISA. Serum samples (n = 107) were tested for anti-FCoV antibodies, and 70.09% of samples were positive for antibodies against FCoV. The iELISA developed in our study can be used to measure serum FCoV antibodies due to its acceptable repeatability, sensitivity, and specificity. Additionally, field sample analysis data demonstrated that FCoV is highly prevalent in cat populations in Fujian province, China. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feline Viruses and Viral Diseases 2.0)

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29 pages, 2736 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Curing Cats with Feline Infectious Peritonitis with an Oral Multi-Component Drug Containing GS-441524

by Daniela Krentz, Katharina Zenger, Martin Alberer, Sandra Felten, Michèle Bergmann, Roswitha Dorsch, Kaspar Matiasek, Laura Kolberg, Regina Hofmann-Lehmann, Marina L. Meli, Andrea M. Spiri, Jeannie Horak, Saskia Weber, Cora M. Holicki, Martin H. Groschup, Yury Zablotski, Eveline Lescrinier, Berthold Koletzko, Ulrich von Both and Katrin Hartmann

Viruses 2021, 13(11), 2228; https://doi.org/10.3390/v13112228 - 5 Nov 2021

Cited by 43 | Viewed by 51598

Abstract

Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) caused by feline coronavirus (FCoV) is a common dis-ease in cats, fatal if untreated, and no effective treatment is currently legally available. The aim of this study was to evaluate efficacy and toxicity of the multi-component drug Xraphconn^® [...] Read more.

Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) caused by feline coronavirus (FCoV) is a common dis-ease in cats, fatal if untreated, and no effective treatment is currently legally available. The aim of this study was to evaluate efficacy and toxicity of the multi-component drug Xraphconn^® in vitro and as oral treatment in cats with spontaneous FIP by examining survival rate, development of clinical and laboratory parameters, viral loads, anti-FCoV antibodies, and adverse effects. Mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance identified GS-441524 as an active component of Xraphconn^®. Eighteen cats with FIP were prospectively followed up while being treated orally for 84 days. Values of key parameters on each examination day were compared to values before treatment initiation using linear mixed-effect models. Xraphconn^® displayed high virucidal activity in cell culture. All cats recovered with dramatic improvement of clinical and laboratory parameters and massive reduction in viral loads within the first few days of treatment without serious adverse effects. Oral treatment with Xraphconn^® containing GS-441524 was highly effective for FIP without causing serious adverse effects. This drug is an excellent option for the oral treatment of FIP and should be trialed as potential effective treatment option for other severe coronavirus-associated diseases across species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feline Viruses and Viral Diseases 2.0)

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19 pages, 4014 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Feline Calicivirus Virulent Systemic Disease: Clinical Epidemiology, Analysis of Viral Isolates and In Vitro Efficacy of Novel Antivirals in Australian Outbreaks

by Matteo Bordicchia, Tulio Machado Fumian, Kate Van Brussel, Alice G. Russo, Maura Carrai, Shi-Jia Le, Patricia A. Pesavento, Edward C. Holmes, Vito Martella, Peter White, Julia A. Beatty, Mang Shi and Vanessa R. Barrs

Viruses 2021, 13(10), 2040; https://doi.org/10.3390/v13102040 - 9 Oct 2021

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 5323

Abstract

Feline calicivirus (FCV) causes upper respiratory tract disease (URTD) and sporadic outbreaks of virulent systemic disease (FCV-VSD). The basis for the increased pathogenicity of FCV-VSD viruses is incompletely understood, and antivirals for FCV-VSD have yet to be developed. We investigated the clinicoepidemiology and [...] Read more.

Feline calicivirus (FCV) causes upper respiratory tract disease (URTD) and sporadic outbreaks of virulent systemic disease (FCV-VSD). The basis for the increased pathogenicity of FCV-VSD viruses is incompletely understood, and antivirals for FCV-VSD have yet to be developed. We investigated the clinicoepidemiology and viral features of three FCV-VSD outbreaks in Australia and evaluated the in vitro efficacy of nitazoxanide (NTZ), 2′-C-methylcytidine (2CMC) and NITD-008 against FCV-VSD viruses. Overall mortality among 23 cases of FCV-VSD was 39%. Metagenomic sequencing identified five genetically distinct FCV lineages within the three outbreaks, all seemingly evolving in situ in Australia. Notably, no mutations that clearly distinguished FCV-URTD from FCV-VSD phenotypes were identified. One FCV-URTD strain likely originated from a recombination event. Analysis of seven amino-acid residues from the hypervariable E region of the capsid in the cultured viruses did not support the contention that properties of these residues can reliably differentiate between the two pathotypes. On plaque reduction assays, dose–response inhibition of FCV-VSD was obtained with all antivirals at low micromolar concentrations; NTZ EC₅₀, 0.4–0.6 µM, TI = 21; 2CMC EC₅₀, 2.7–5.3 µM, TI > 18; NITD-008, 0.5 to 0.9 µM, TI > 111. Investigation of these antivirals for the treatment of FCV-VSD is warranted. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feline Viruses and Viral Diseases 2.0)

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19 pages, 1004 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Feline Morbillivirus in Southern Italy: Epidemiology, Clinico-Pathological Features and Phylogenetic Analysis in Cats

by Giulia Donato, Marisa Masucci, Eliana De Luca, Angela Alibrandi, Massimo De Majo, Shadia Berjaoui, Camillo Martino, Cyndi Mangano, Alessio Lorusso and Maria Grazia Pennisi

Viruses 2021, 13(8), 1449; https://doi.org/10.3390/v13081449 - 25 Jul 2021

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3185

Abstract

Feline morbillivirus (FeMV) was isolated for the first time in 2012 with an association with chronic kidney disease (CKD) suggested. This study aimed at investigating in cats from southern Italy FeMV prevalence and risk factors for exposure to FeMV, including the relationship with [...] Read more.

Feline morbillivirus (FeMV) was isolated for the first time in 2012 with an association with chronic kidney disease (CKD) suggested. This study aimed at investigating in cats from southern Italy FeMV prevalence and risk factors for exposure to FeMV, including the relationship with CKD; sequencing amplicons and analyzing phylogeny of PCR positive samples. Blood serum, K₃EDTA blood and urine samples from 223 cats were investigated. Ten carcasses were also evaluated. FeMV RNA was detected in 2.4% (5/211) blood and 16.1% (36/223) urine samples. One carcass tested positive by qPCR_FeMV from kidney, urinary bladder, and submandibular lymph nodes. Antibodies against FeMV were detected in 14.5% (28/193) cats. We followed up 27 cats (13 FeMV positive cats) and documented in some cases urine shedding after up to 360 days. Older and foundling cats and cats living in rescue catteries, were more frequently infected with FeMV. A significant correlation between FeMV and higher serum creatinine values or low urine specific gravity was found. FeMV positivity was significantly associated with retroviral infection, and the presence of some clinical signs apart from CKD clinicopathological markers. Our study highlights the possibility of a link between FeMV exposure and CKD and a general impairment of feline health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feline Viruses and Viral Diseases 2.0)

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Review

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9 pages, 271 KiB

Open AccessReview

Vaccination and Antibody Testing in Cats

by Herman Egberink, Tadeusz Frymus, Katrin Hartmann, Karin Möstl, Diane D. Addie, Sándor Belák, Corine Boucraut-Baralon, Regina Hofmann-Lehmann, Albert Lloret, Fulvio Marsilio, Maria Grazia Pennisi, Séverine Tasker, Etienne Thiry, Uwe Truyen and Margaret J. Hosie

Viruses 2022, 14(8), 1602; https://doi.org/10.3390/v14081602 - 22 Jul 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 5854

Abstract

Vaccines protect cats from serious diseases by inducing antibodies and cellular immune responses. Primary vaccinations and boosters are given according to vaccination guidelines provided by industry and veterinary organizations, based on minimal duration of immunity (DOI). For certain diseases, particularly feline panleukopenia, antibody [...] Read more.

Vaccines protect cats from serious diseases by inducing antibodies and cellular immune responses. Primary vaccinations and boosters are given according to vaccination guidelines provided by industry and veterinary organizations, based on minimal duration of immunity (DOI). For certain diseases, particularly feline panleukopenia, antibody titres correlate with protection. For feline calicivirus and feline herpesvirus, a similar correlation is absent, or less clear. In this review, the European Advisory Board on Cat Diseases (ABCD) presents current knowledge and expert opinion on the use of antibody testing in different situations. Antibody testing can be performed either in diagnostic laboratories, or in veterinary practice using point of care (POC) tests, and can be applied for several purposes, such as to provide evidence that a successful immune response was induced following vaccination. In adult cats, antibody test results can inform the appropriate re-vaccination interval. In shelters, antibody testing can support the control of FPV outbreaks by identifying potentially unprotected cats. Antibody testing has also been proposed to support decisions on optimal vaccination schedules for the individual kitten. However, such testing is still expensive and it is considered impractical to monitor the decline of maternally derived antibodies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feline Viruses and Viral Diseases 2.0)

31 pages, 4426 KiB

Open AccessReview

Calicivirus Infection in Cats

by Regina Hofmann-Lehmann, Margaret J. Hosie, Katrin Hartmann, Herman Egberink, Uwe Truyen, Séverine Tasker, Sándor Belák, Corine Boucraut-Baralon, Tadeusz Frymus, Albert Lloret, Fulvio Marsilio, Maria Grazia Pennisi, Diane D. Addie, Hans Lutz, Etienne Thiry, Alan D. Radford and Karin Möstl

Viruses 2022, 14(5), 937; https://doi.org/10.3390/v14050937 - 29 Apr 2022

Cited by 49 | Viewed by 20565

Abstract

Feline calicivirus (FCV) is a common pathogen in domestic cats that is highly contagious, resistant to many disinfectants and demonstrates a high genetic variability. FCV infection can lead to serious or even fatal diseases. In this review, the European Advisory Board on Cat [...] Read more.

Feline calicivirus (FCV) is a common pathogen in domestic cats that is highly contagious, resistant to many disinfectants and demonstrates a high genetic variability. FCV infection can lead to serious or even fatal diseases. In this review, the European Advisory Board on Cat Diseases (ABCD), a scientifically independent board of experts in feline medicine from 11 European countries, presents the current knowledge of FCV infection and fills gaps with expert opinions. FCV infections are particularly problematic in multicat environments. FCV-infected cats often show painful erosions in the mouth and mild upper respiratory disease and, particularly in kittens, even fatal pneumonia. However, infection can be associated with chronic gingivostomatitis. Rarely, highly virulent FCV variants can induce severe systemic disease with epizootic spread and high mortality. FCV can best be detected by reverse-transcriptase PCR. However, a negative result does not rule out FCV infection and healthy cats can test positive. All cats should be vaccinated against FCV (core vaccine); however, vaccination protects cats from disease but not from infection. Considering the high variability of FCV, changing to different vaccine strain(s) may be of benefit if disease occurs in fully vaccinated cats. Infection-induced immunity is not life-long and does not protect against all strains; therefore, vaccination of cats that have recovered from caliciviral disease is recommended. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feline Viruses and Viral Diseases 2.0)

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24 pages, 428 KiB

Open AccessReview

Vaccination of Immunocompromised Cats

by Katrin Hartmann, Karin Möstl, Albert Lloret, Etienne Thiry, Diane D. Addie, Sándor Belák, Corine Boucraut-Baralon, Herman Egberink, Tadeusz Frymus, Regina Hofmann-Lehmann, Hans Lutz, Fulvio Marsilio, Maria Grazia Pennisi, Séverine Tasker, Uwe Truyen and Margaret J. Hosie

Viruses 2022, 14(5), 923; https://doi.org/10.3390/v14050923 - 28 Apr 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 8725

Abstract

Immunocompromise is a common condition in cats, especially due to widespread infections with immunosuppressive viruses, such as feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukaemia virus (FeLV), but also due to chronic non-infectious diseases, such as tumours, diabetes mellitus, and chronic kidney disease, as [...] Read more.

Immunocompromise is a common condition in cats, especially due to widespread infections with immunosuppressive viruses, such as feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukaemia virus (FeLV), but also due to chronic non-infectious diseases, such as tumours, diabetes mellitus, and chronic kidney disease, as well as treatment with immunosuppressive drugs, such as glucocorticoids, cyclosporins, or tumour chemotherapy. In this review, the European Advisory Board on Cat Diseases (ABCD), a scientifically independent board of experts in feline medicine from eleven European countries, discusses the current knowledge and rationale for vaccination of immunocompromised cats. So far, there are few data available on vaccination of immunocompromised cats, and sometimes studies produce controversial results. Thus, this guideline summarizes the available scientific studies and fills in the gaps with expert opinion, where scientific studies are missing. Ultimately, this review aims to help veterinarians with their decision-making in how best to vaccinate immunocompromised cats. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feline Viruses and Viral Diseases 2.0)

15 pages, 361 KiB

Open AccessReview

Emerging Respiratory Viruses of Cats

by Andrea Palombieri, Federica Di Profio, Paola Fruci, Vittorio Sarchese, Vito Martella, Fulvio Marsilio and Barbara Di Martino

Viruses 2022, 14(4), 663; https://doi.org/10.3390/v14040663 - 23 Mar 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 4544

Abstract

In recent years, advances in diagnostics and deep sequencing technologies have led to the identification and characterization of novel viruses in cats as protoparviruses and chaphamaparvoviruses, unveiling the diversity of the feline virome in the respiratory tract. Observational, epidemiological and experimental data are [...] Read more.

In recent years, advances in diagnostics and deep sequencing technologies have led to the identification and characterization of novel viruses in cats as protoparviruses and chaphamaparvoviruses, unveiling the diversity of the feline virome in the respiratory tract. Observational, epidemiological and experimental data are necessary to demonstrate firmly if some viruses are able to cause disease, as this information may be confounded by virus- or host-related factors. Also, in recent years, researchers were able to monitor multiple examples of transmission to felids of viruses with high pathogenic potential, such as the influenza virus strains H5N1, H1N1, H7N2, H5N6 and H3N2, and in the late 2019, the human hypervirulent coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. These findings suggest that the study of viral infections always requires a multi-disciplinary approach inspired by the One Health vision. By reviewing the literature, we provide herewith an update on the emerging viruses identified in cats and their potential association with respiratory disease. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feline Viruses and Viral Diseases 2.0)

23 pages, 1444 KiB

Open AccessReview

Clinical and Molecular Relationships between COVID-19 and Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP)

by Arjun N. Sweet, Nicole M. André, Alison E. Stout, Beth N. Licitra and Gary R. Whittaker

Viruses 2022, 14(3), 481; https://doi.org/10.3390/v14030481 - 26 Feb 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 14835

Abstract

The emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has led the medical and scientific community to address questions surrounding the pathogenesis and clinical presentation of COVID-19; however, relevant clinical models outside of humans are still lacking. In felines, a ubiquitous coronavirus, described [...] Read more.

The emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has led the medical and scientific community to address questions surrounding the pathogenesis and clinical presentation of COVID-19; however, relevant clinical models outside of humans are still lacking. In felines, a ubiquitous coronavirus, described as feline coronavirus (FCoV), can present as feline infectious peritonitis (FIP)—a leading cause of mortality in young cats that is characterized as a severe, systemic inflammation. The diverse extrapulmonary signs of FIP and rapidly progressive disease course, coupled with a closely related etiologic agent, present a degree of overlap with COVID-19. This paper will explore the molecular and clinical relationships between FIP and COVID-19. While key differences between the two syndromes exist, these similarities support further examination of feline coronaviruses as a naturally occurring clinical model for coronavirus disease in humans. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feline Viruses and Viral Diseases 2.0)

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18 pages, 2276 KiB

Open AccessReview

Papillomaviruses in Domestic Cats

by John S. Munday and Neroli A. Thomson

Viruses 2021, 13(8), 1664; https://doi.org/10.3390/v13081664 - 22 Aug 2021

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 4440

Abstract

Papillomaviruses (PVs) are well established to cause hyperplastic papillomas (warts) in humans and animals. In addition, due to their ability to alter cell regulation, PVs are also recognized to cause approximately 5% of human cancers and these viruses have been associated with neoplasia [...] Read more.

Papillomaviruses (PVs) are well established to cause hyperplastic papillomas (warts) in humans and animals. In addition, due to their ability to alter cell regulation, PVs are also recognized to cause approximately 5% of human cancers and these viruses have been associated with neoplasia in a number of animal species. In contrast to other domestic species, cats have traditionally been thought to less frequently develop disease due to PV infection. However, in the last 15 years, the number of viruses and the different lesions associated with PVs in cats have greatly expanded. In this review, the PV life cycle and the subsequent immune response is briefly discussed along with methods used to investigate a PV etiology of a lesion. The seven PV types that are currently known to infect cats are reviewed. The lesions that have been associated with PV infections in cats are then discussed and the review finishes with a brief discussion on the use of vaccines to prevent PV-induced disease in domestic cats. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feline Viruses and Viral Diseases 2.0)

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Other

Jump to: Research, Review

8 pages, 243 KiB

Open AccessCommentary

Emerging Hepatotropic Viruses in Cats: A Brief Review

by Paolo Capozza, Nicola Decaro, Farzad Beikpour, Canio Buonavoglia and Vito Martella

Viruses 2021, 13(6), 1162; https://doi.org/10.3390/v13061162 - 17 Jun 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3948

Abstract

The possible role of viruses in feline liver disease has long remained neglected. However, in 2018, an analogue of human hepatitis B virus was identified in cats. Moreover, antibodies for human hepatitis E have been detected consistently at various prevalence rates in cats. [...] Read more.

The possible role of viruses in feline liver disease has long remained neglected. However, in 2018, an analogue of human hepatitis B virus was identified in cats. Moreover, antibodies for human hepatitis E have been detected consistently at various prevalence rates in cats. Although the correlation between these viruses and the liver injury in cats must be clarified, hepatotropic viruses might represent an increasing risk for feline and public health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feline Viruses and Viral Diseases 2.0)

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