According to experts, thousands of cats in Cyprus have died due to a more aggressive strain of feline coronavirus, while in Poland, dozens of cats have died from avian flu. This has raised concerns about a possible connection between the increase in cat deaths and the risk to humans who have pet cats.
The outbreak in Cyprus involves a feline coronavirus, unrelated to Covid-19, that also affects cats in the UK but does not infect humans. Normally, the virus causes mild stomach issues, but it can lead to feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), a severe illness that can be fatal. The virus infects white blood cells, spreads throughout the cat’s body, and triggers a harmful inflammatory reaction in the abdomen, kidneys, and brain.
Vets in Cyprus have observed a sudden surge in FIP cases, with 98 cases reported in January compared to only three and four cases in the previous two years. While estimates suggest that around 300,000 cats have died from FIP since January, these numbers are yet to be validated. The increase in cases is concerning and suggests a more aggressive strain of the virus, which researchers are investigating through genome sequencing.
Similar increases in FIP cases have been reported anecdotally by vets in Lebanon, Turkey, and Israel, where there are also large populations of stray cats. However, there is no evidence of a similar pattern in the UK or Europe, possibly due to fewer stray cats and the availability of treatments for FIP.
The British Veterinary Association (BVA) advises testing cats imported from Cyprus before travel and not moving them if they test positive for the virus. However, the BVA also notes that FIP is a condition seen in cats in the UK, and cat owners should consult their veterinarians if they have concerns about their pets’ health or welfare.
In Poland, authorities are investigating an outbreak of highly pathogenic H5N1 bird flu in domestic cats. So far, 29 cats have tested positive for H5N1 influenza across multiple regions, with symptoms including breathing difficulties, bloody diarrhea, and neurological symptoms. Investigations are ongoing to determine the source of these infections, which may involve contact with infected birds or their environments or consuming infected birds or contaminated food.
While no cases of infections among cat owners have been reported, global health organizations are closely monitoring the situation for any potential risks to humans. As a precaution, the European Food Safety Authority recommends keeping cats indoors and dogs on a leash in areas where H5N1 influenza circulation in wild birds has been confirmed.