Distinct mutation in the feline coronavirus spike protein cleavage activation site in a cat with feline infectious peritonitis-associated meningoencephalomyelitis

André, Nicole M; Cossic, Brieuc; Davies, Emma; Miller, Andrew D; Whittaker, Gary R

At 8 months of age, the cat was returned to the general practitioner due to progression of the paraparesis. The client noted further deterioration of the pelvic limb paresis, and now identified 'stiffness' in the thoracic limbs. There was no information about the pelvic limb reflexes; however, the cat had started to have occasional urinary and fecal incontinence. Appetite seemed normal; however, the cat remained thin. Physical examination revealed a temperature of 101.5°F (38.6°C), heart rate of 170 beats per min and respiratory rate of 30 breaths per min. BCS was 3/9; however, the weight was not noted. Abdominal palpation revealed a large, easily expressible urinary bladder. Neurologic examination findings revealed normal mentation with no involuntary movements such as tremors. The cat was still very ataxic and ambulatory but now tetraparetic, which was much worse in the pelvic limbs. There was no information about cranial nerve abnormalities, and the eyes and retinas were within normal limits. From a video provided by the owner (see supplementary material), tail paresis was identified. The lesion was considered to affect the CNS and was localized as multifocal. A fecal flotation and direct smear were evaluated, with no ova or parasites seen. Cryptococcus and Toxoplasma antibody titers were performed and were negative.