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 14 weeks of age, the cat was presented to a general practitioner for evaluation of poor weight gain, soft stool and upper respiratory tract infection. The cat was underconditioned and weighed 2.5 lb (1.1 kg), with a body condition score (BCS) of 2/5, despite being active, alert and having a good appetite. Conjunctivitis and a yellow mucopurulent discharge from the nares were noted, and the cat had a fever of 102.6°F (39.2°C). A fecal flotation was performed owing to the soft but formed stool, and no ova or parasites were detected. A complete blood count (CBC) and chemistry profile were performed (Tables 1 and 2 ). The chemistry profile showed marked elevations in alkaline phosphatase, alanine transferase and phosphorus levels. A decrease in creatinine and albumin was also noted (Table 1) , along with mild anemia and monocytosis. Amoxicillin clavulanic acid (Clavamox drops; Zoetis) 62.5 mg/ml was dispensed and administered at 15.6 mg (12 mg/kg) PO q12h for 10 days. Blood parameters were re-evaluated at 20 weeks of age using a less defined panel and values were within the normal range (Table 1) .