Molecular and pathological confirmation of natural feline coronavirus infection in a captive persian leopard (Panthera pardus tulliana): Implications for Wildlife conservation and one health.

BACKGROUND

Feline coronavirus (FCoV) infection, which can lead to feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), poses significant risks to domestic and wild felids. Although FIP has been documented in various non-domestic species, no cases have been reported in the Persian leopard (Panthera pardus tulliana). This study presents the first confirmed case of FIP in a captive Persian leopard, highlighting the implications for the conservation of wildlife and One Health.

CASE DESCRIPTION: A 3-year-old female Persian leopard exhibited lethargy, watery diarrhea, hematochezia, and anorexia. The initial treatment with gentamicin resolved the gastrointestinal symptoms, but the systemic signs persisted. Molecular diagnostics (Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction targeting the FCoV M gene) and immunohistochemistry (IHC) confirmed the presence of FCoV Postmortem examination revealed pyogranulomatous inflammation, vasculitis, and effusive fluid accumulation, consistent with FIP. Treatment with GS-441524, polyprenyl immunostimulant, and glucocorticoids was unsuccessful.

CONCLUSION

This case represents the first documented occurrence of FIP in a Persian leopard, highlighting the threat of FCoV to endangered felids. Enhanced surveillance and preventive measures in captive populations are urgently required.