Development of a PCR test system for detecting feline coronavirus disease

Aim. Development of an effective test system for diagnosing feline coronavirus disease based on reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Methods. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR); reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR); real-time RT-PCR; melting curve analysis; polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis; statistical methods. Results. A PCR test system with electrophoretic detection and a real-time PCR test system were developed for the detection of feline coronavirus (FCoV). The advantages of the real-time PCR test system were demonstrated, and its efficiency was evaluated. Using the real-time test system, diagnostic testing of 160 cats was conducted, revealing the presence of FCoV in 18 % of the examined animals. Conclusions. The high diagnostic efficiency of the real-time PCR test system allows its use for laboratory diagnosis of feline coronavirus disease. Although feline coronavirus disease is not classified as a seasonal illness, a correlation between the detection frequency of FCoV and the season was observed. The detection rate of FCoV was 28 % in spring, decreased to 11 % in summer, and increased again to 24 % in September. One of the possible reasons for these seasonal fluctuations may be the weakening of immunity in animals during autumn and spring, which could influence the risk of infection or virus reactivation.