Comparative Genome Sequencing Analysis of Some Novel Feline Infectious Peritonitis Viruses Isolated from Some Feral Cats in Long Island.

Feline infectious peritonitis virus (FIPV) remains as one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in young cats from shelters and catteries worldwide. Since little is known about the molecular characteristics of currently circulating FIPV strains in Long Island, New York, samples from two shelter cats submitted to the Pathology Diagnostic Services of the Long Island University College of Veterinary Medicine, with gross and microscopic lesions consistent with those of FIP were processed for virus isolation, molecular characterization and full-length genome decoding. The younger shelter cat, a 1-year-old male (A15) was found dead without previous signs of illness.