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Study discovers respiratory pathogen risk factors in cats
“This study supports the on-going need to vaccinate cats against these highly transmissible agents."- Emi Barker.
Statistics reveal purebred cats more likely to carry FCV.

Research into respiratory pathogen risk factors in cats has revealed that feline calcivirus is the most common upper respiratory tract pathogen among pet cats in the UK.

The discovery was made as part of a study, funded by BSAVA, into the highly contagious oral infectious agents feline calcivirus (FCV), feline herpesvirus (FHV) and Chlamydia felis. The pathogens are considered the main cause of upper respiratory tract disease in cats, but little is known about their occurrence among UK pet cats, and their risk factors for oral carriage.

To investigate this, scientists assessed the prevalence of these pathogens using buccal swabs collected from 430 cats that were enrolled in the Bristol Cats Study.

They detected all three of the major upper respiratory tract pathogens in the sampled cats, with 13.3 per cent testing positive for FCV, 2.1 per cent positive for FHV and 1.2 per cent positive for C. felis.

The data suggested that purebred cats have a higher chance of carrying FCV compared to crossbred cats, as did cats that had current or historical clinical signs of upper respiratory tract disease. Cats that were entire at 12 months and living in a multi-cat household were also found to be at higher risk.

The findings showed that the majority of cats that had FHV or C. felis were also positive for FCV, meaning that any cats suspected of having FHV or C. felis based on clinical signs should also be assessed for FCV. When hospitalising cats, the researchers also advise using disinfectant which has activity against FCV.

Emi Barker, lead author of the study, said: “This study supports the on-going need to vaccinate cats against these highly transmissible agents.

“Background population prevalence also needs to be borne-in mind when investigating and treating cats with upper respiratory disease – for example, calicivirus is going to be a prime suspect, but finding it might not be a slam dunk diagnosis.”

The full study can be found in the Journal of Small Animal Practice.

Image © Shutterstock

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.