Investigation of Feline Coronaviruses infection in the South China Tigers

To investigate and understand the Feline Coronaviruses infection in South China tigers, and to provide a basis knowledge for monitoring and prevention the disease, 119 whole blood and serum samples from South China tiger in 11 zoos were analyzed for aetiology and serology using PCR and ELISA methods. The results indicated that no Feline Coronaviruses antigen was detected in 119 whole blood samples via PCR. 19 positive samples were detected by ELISA in serum samples. The total seropositive rate was 15.97%. The positive rate of antibodies across locations varied from 0% to 66.67%, with a median of 11.11%. Seroprevalence rates varied significantly among locations (P = 0.000); the juveniles exhibited an seroprevalence rate of 17.39%, while adults had a rate of 15.63%, with no significant difference observed(P = 0.455); positive rates were 17.24% for males and 14.75% for females. There was no significant difference observed in the seroprevalence rate of Feline Coronaviruses between sexes (P = 0.207). The seroprevalence of Feline Coronaviruses in South China tigers was contributed by zoos (different locations).