Detection of feline immunodeficiency virus in domestic cats (Felis catus) by polymerase chain reaction technique

Abstract

The objective of this work was to detect the presence of Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) proviral DNA in asymptomatic domestic cats (Feliz catus). The polymerase chain reaction technique was performed from 50 animals. For this, blood samples were collected by jugular venipuncture, aseptically for storage of 1-2 mL of whole blood. The animals that participated in the study were part of the castration project “Vida digna” at the Universidade Federal Rural da Amazônia. And the choice of animals was performed randomly, without distinction by sex or age, resulting in 29 females and 21 males. For diagnosis, DNA extraction was performed, then the samples were tested in two PCR reactions using two sets of FIV gag gene primers. A prevalence of 2% (1/50) was observed, thus confirming the presence of the virus in the city of Belém. Thus, highlighting the importance of testing the felines even if they are asymptomatic. Therefore, it is necessary to carry out future work that expands the sample number of animals tested in order to elucidate the epidemiological profile of the disease in the region of Belém do Pará, considering the clinical relevance of this infection and the correct veterinary medical conduct to avoid new infections.