Background: Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) is a major viral pathogen that affects domestic cats worldwide, leading to immunosuppression, anemia, and increased susceptibility to secondary infections and cancers. Stray cat populations, which have limited access to veterinary care, are at higher risk of FeLV infection. This study aims to assess the prevalence and genetic diversity of FeLV in stray cat populations in Portugal.

Methods: A total of 150 stray cats were sampled across various regions of Portugal. Blood samples were collected and tested for FeLV using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Positive samples were further analyzed for the genetic characterization of the virus through sequencing of the gag gene and env gene.

Results: The overall prevalence of FeLV infection in stray cats was found to be 10.7%. Genetic analysis revealed two distinct viral subtypes, with subtype A being the predominant strain. Phylogenetic analysis indicated a diverse genetic profile of FeLV circulating among Portuguese stray cats, with some genetic variations consistent with regional strains found in neighboring countries.

Conclusion: The study highlights a moderate prevalence of FeLV in Portuguese stray cats and provides valuable insights into the genetic diversity of the virus. These findings suggest the need for improved public health strategies and veterinary interventions to manage FeLV transmission, especially in stray and feral cat populations.

Endometritis, an inflammatory condition of the uterus, is one of the most common reproductive disorders in dairy cows, impacting milk production and fertility. The pathophysiology of endometritis has been well-studied, but the potential influence of this condition on the gut microbiota remains poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate the changes in the fecal microbiota of dairy cows with and without endometritis. Fecal samples were collected from 30 dairy cows (15 diagnosed with endometritis and 15 healthy controls) at various stages of lactation. The fecal microbiota was analyzed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing to identify bacterial composition and diversity. Our results revealed significant differences in the gut microbiota between cows with endometritis and healthy cows, with an increased abundance of Proteobacteria and Firmicutes and a decreased diversity in cows with endometritis. These findings suggest that endometritis may alter the gut microbiota, which could have implications for dairy cow health and management. Further research is needed to explore the causal relationship between uterine health and gut microbiota, and its potential effects on overall cow productivity.