The prevalence of highly-pathogenic viruses in European wildcat and Eurasian Lynx in Poland

Many diseases commonly found in domestic cats may represent potential threats to wild cats. This study investigates the prevalence of selected viral pathogens in the Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx) and European wildcat (Felis silvestris) in Poland, both being strictly-protected species vulnerable to environmental pressures. A total of 20 Eurasian lynx and five wildcats were subjected to serological and molecular analyses (ELISA and real-time PCR) aimed at confirming the presence of antibodies and genetic material for feline leukemia virus (FeLV), feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), feline coronavirus (FCoV), feline calicivirus (FCV), feline herpesvirus (FHV), and feline panleukopenia virus (FPV). Antibodies were most frequently detected against FCV (32%), and FHV (32%), FCoV (23.1%), and FeLV (16%). No FIV and FPV antibodies were detected. Viral genetic material was confirmed in four animals, with FCV being most prevalent (9.1%), followed by FeLV and FHV (each 4.5%). Statistically significant associations were observed between the presence of FCV and FHV. These results suggest that viral infections may play a role in limiting wild felid populations in Central Europe. Continued surveillance is crucial to inform conservation efforts and assess long-term health risks.