Veterinarija ir Zootechnika

Feline coronavirus (FCoV) is highly prevalent in multi-cat environments and may mutate to cause feline infectious peritonitis (FIP). This single-site retrospective case study analysed breeding and diagnostic data from a private cattery in Estonia (10 FCoV-free queens, 4 FCoV-shedding toms, and 29 kittens) to evaluate whether virus-free queens can be bred with shedding toms without subsequent infection in queens or offspring. Natural matings were conducted under strictly controlled conditions, limited to 90-minute sessions twice daily for three consecutive days, in a room without shared litter boxes, food, water, or enrichment. FCoV infection status was monitored using repeated faecal RT-PCR and serological testing before and after mating. All queens remained negative for FCoV on faecal RT-PCR and serology six months after breeding, and all kittens tested negative by faecal RT-PCR up to three months of age. No clinical or reproductive complications were observed. Within the limitations of a retrospective case study, these findings indicate that time-limited mating under strict environmental control was associated with no detectable FCoV transmission in this setting. This approach may be relevant for breeders and veterinarians managing FCoV-free breeding stock where virus-negative toms are not available.