A widespread outbreak of feline coronavirus in Cyprus, leading to the death of approximately 300,000 cats, has raised concerns about the potential spread of the fatal virus to other countries, including the United Kingdom. Experts warn that if the virus reaches the UK, it could have catastrophic consequences for the feline population.
The outbreak of feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) has affected both domestic and stray cats on the island since January, according to Dinos Ayiomamitis, the head of Cats PAWS Cyprus. The close ties between Cyprus and the UK, including expat travel and cat rehoming, heighten the risk of transmission.
