Introduction

Among the retrovirus family caused diseases in domestic cats, feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukemia virus (FeLV) are the most widespread worldwide. We conducted a prevalence survey in Hungary as first in this country.

Objectives

The aim of research was to know the prevalence of these viruses among owned domestic cats in Hungary, and to analyze the genotype of isolated FIV positive strains.

Methods

EDTA-anticoagulated whole blood was collected from 184 cats presented in 13 clinics. Testing was carried out with in-clinic ELISA test (Witness® FeLV-FIV, Zoetis), standard polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Background data was available for all cats. Data were analyzed with R software.

Results

Twenty-four (24) specimens were positive to FeLV (ELISA), 30 to FIV 24 samples showed positivity to FeLV (PCR) and 22 to FIV. Calculated true prevalence were 9,0% and 8,5% with ELISA and 8,2% and 7,3% with PCR, respectively. Correspondence between positivity and some variables was analyzed with logistic regression (p<0,05): males have higher chance to be infected with FIV, also cats more than 3 years of age. In case of FeLV, there was no significant correspondence, however, we could see the same tendencies. Phylogenetic analysis is in progress, will be done until May 2017.

Conclusions

Publications show prevalence in surrounding European countries 1,0–15,6% in case of FeLV and 2,0–30,0% in case of FIV. The higher percentages are from studies including free-roaming and shelter cats also, usually among owned cats they have lower values than ours. This shows, Hungary should make efforts on improving vaccination and screening activities.