New Virus Threatens Cats in US
- A new virus discovered in the US has the potential to kill pet cats and those in the wild.
- The first case of the virus was found in a female mountain lion in Colorado in May.
- This poses a serious threat to the cat population in the US.
A new variant of the rustrela virus, known as RusV, has been identified for the first time in the United States, posing a significant threat to both domestic and wild cats. The discovery was made following the examination of a female mountain lion in Douglas County, Colorado, which exhibited severe symptoms including reluctance to move and decreased mobility. To alleviate her suffering and prevent further brain damage, the animal was humanely euthanized. The findings were published in the journal *Emerging Infectious Diseases*. The study revealed that RusV is linked to a condition known as staggering disease, a fatal neurological syndrome in felines. This virus variant has been documented in domestic cats in Europe since the 1970s and has also been found in rodents. Researchers utilized advanced hybridization techniques to confirm the presence of RusV RNA in the mountain lion's brain and spinal cord, establishing a genetic connection to previously identified strains in Europe. The American Veterinary Medical Association has outlined symptoms for pet owners to monitor, including staggering gait, inability to retract claws, heightened sensitivity to touch, tremors, and seizures. Dr. Karen Fox, a wildlife pathologist and study author, expressed cautious optimism, stating that while this case may be isolated, it could indicate a broader issue. “Traditionally, when we find diseases, it means you’re the tip of an iceberg,” she noted, emphasizing the need for vigilance in monitoring feline health.