New Strain of Coronavirus Kills Thousands of Cats in Cyprus and Reaches UK, Scientists Warn of Outbreak Spread

Accident – Death – Obituary News : Deadly and Highly Infectious Feline Coronavirus Strain Reaches UK, Scientists Warn

A new strain of feline coronavirus, responsible for the death of 8,000 cats in Cyprus, has now made its way to the United Kingdom, according to scientists. It was discovered when a cat, recently brought from the Mediterranean island, displayed symptoms and was subsequently tested and treated by its owner.

The strain, known as F-CoV-23, is a hybrid of existing feline coronavirus and canine coronavirus. It is important to note that this strain is not linked to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. Symptoms of this coronavirus in cats include mild diarrhea and lethargy, although many cats may not display any symptoms at all, making diagnosis and treatment challenging.

However, in about one in ten cases, the virus mutates into feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), a severe and often fatal condition characterized by loss of appetite, jaundice, and anemia.

While it is estimated that this new strain caused an outbreak in Cyprus, the actual number of cat fatalities could be even higher, potentially surpassing 300,000. In an attempt to control the outbreak, Cypriot officials authorized the use of human Covid treatments on cats back in August.

A collaborative study by scientists from the Royal Veterinary College, the University of Edinburgh, and the Cypriot government found that the British case shared the same “genetic fingerprint” as 91 cases in Cyprus. The researchers warn of a “significant risk” of the outbreak spreading further.

The study also revealed that the combination of canine and feline coronaviruses, resulting in the cat virus acquiring the spike protein of the dog pathogen, has increased its infectiousness.

Cats diagnosed with feline infectious peritonitis exhibit symptoms such as lethargy, fever, a swollen abdomen, and inflammation. Unfortunately, the condition is almost always fatal unless treated. However, a veterinary drug called GS-441524 has shown effectiveness in treating FIP if administered early, although it currently remains expensive.

It is worth noting that the use of human Covid drugs, such as remdesivir and molnupiravir, to treat FIP in cats is presently illegal in the UK.

Experts have stated that there is no evidence to suggest that dogs or humans can be infected with this new strain. Therefore, there is no immediate need for cat owners to keep their pets indoors or away from other animals.

Dr. Alexandros Chardas, a Lecturer in Veterinary Anatomic Pathology, and Dr. Sarah Tayler, a Lecturer in Small Animal Internal Medicine, both from the Royal Veterinary College, advised that the risk is minimal if the cat has not traveled to Cyprus or come into contact with other cats that have visited the island. However, they emphasize that catteries, rehoming centers, pet hotels, and veterinary practices should remain vigilant and well-informed about this emerging virus.

In case cats display suspected clinical signs, such as an enlarged abdomen, loss of appetite, or difficulty breathing, owners are advised to promptly seek assessment and guidance from their veterinarian..