First identification of a single amino acid change in the spike protein region of feline coronavirus detected from a coronavirus-associated cutaneous nodule in a cat

Osumi, Takafumi; Mitsui, Ikki; Leutenegger, Christian M; Okabe, Ryo; Ide, Kaori; Nishifuji, Koji

On presentation, the cat was mildly underweight (body weight, 2.3 kg; body condition score, 4/9) with a rectal temperature of 39.6°C. The cat appeared to be dehydrated. No marked neurological signs were observed upon inspection. The cat exhibited serous nasal discharge from both nostrils, severe generalised proliferative stomatitis, and swelling of the left submandibular lymph node (10 × 20 mm). There were no ocular changes, such as uveitis, neurological abnormalities or distended abdomen. Abdominal palpation did not reveal hepatomegaly or enlarged intraperitoneal lymph nodes. No apparent abnormality on auscultation was observed. Cardiac and respiratory rates were 180 beats/ min and 40 breaths/min, respectively. Although a pale oral mucous membrane was noted, no icterus or petechiae were observed. The capillary refill time was 1.5 s.