Wildcats face new disease threat

Experts have isolated two cases of Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) from cats with a mixed domestic-wildcat ancestry.

First cases

One of the cases was detected in an area that has been identified as a priority zone for wildcat conservation.

Although FIV is common in feral cats, these are the first known cases of the virus affecting hybrid cats in a wildcat priority area.

Post mortem

Wildlife experts from the University of Edinburgh’s Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and National Museums Scotland made the discovery after carrying out post mortem examinations on 23 feral and hybrid cats from around Scotland.

Conservation zone

A long-haired tabby found dead in a barn in Morvern in the Western Highlands was one of the animals to test positive for the virus.

Morvern is one of six places identified by Scottish Wildcat Action last year as a priority area for wildcat conservation.

Deadly infection

There is currently no vaccine for FIV. The infection is transmitted mainly when adult male cats fight and experts say neutering is key to tackling the disease.

This recent find confirms that pet owners must be encouraged to vaccinate and neuter their cats, particularly if they live in a wildcat priority area.

Professor Anna Meredith

Scottish Wildcat Action

Scottish Wildcat Action is a national project to save the Scottish wildcat that involves 21 partner organisations, including the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies.

The six year programme aims to reduce threats in wildcat priority areas, breed wildcats for later release and contribute to better understanding through new research.

We have less than five years to make a big impact as part of our Scotland-wide wildcat action project, but we can make a huge difference not only by drawing on the expertise of our partners but also by working with local people at every level.

Dr Roo Campbell