‘Alarming’ reports of sudden rise in feline infectious peritonitis thought to point to more virulent strain

Thousands of cats have died in Cyprus, according to experts who are warning that a more virulent strain of a feline coronavirus is causing severe illness. Separately, dozens of cats have died after being infected with avian flu in Poland.

The reports have raised questions about whether there is any connection between the rises in deaths and whether, given that many have pet cats at home, there is any evidence of an increased risk to people.