A pet cat in Florida helps scientists discover two new viruses

Pepper the cat’s curious habits lead to scientific gains (Image: John Lednicky)

In an unusual twist of science and pet behaviour, a cat in Florida has helped researchers uncover two previously unknown viruses. Pepper, a domestic feline with a habit of bringing home dead animals, has indirectly contributed to new virus detection.

Pepper's owner, virologist John Lednicky at the University of Florida, saw promise in the grim present. Rather than dispose of the dead animals, he put them to use in his laboratory. One such discovery, an Everglades short-tailed shrew, resulted in the identification of a new orthoreovirus strain.

Opportunistic Sampling Brings New Insights

The virus, still not fully understood, is part of a family previously thought to be harmless. However, recent links have been found to gastrointestinal and neurological issues. Virologist Emily DeRuyter explained that while mammalian orthoreoviruses were once seen as inactive, they are now being studied for their role in potential human disease.

Lednicky and his team have already sequenced and published the virus’s genome. This adds valuable data to the ongoing study of emerging infections.

Pepper’s Previous Discovery Was Even More Concerning

This isn't Pepper’s first brush with virology. In 2024, the cat caught a mouse that had a jeilongvirus never before detected in the United States. That virus infected a broad array of mammal cells, including those of primates, provoking fears of cross-species transmission.

Scientists emphasised the value of early virus detection. Surveillance of such unusual pathogens can enhance outbreak response and public health readiness.

While Pepper is oblivious to his scientific findings, his wilderness excursions serve as a reminder of the intricately complicated dangers free-roaming pets present. Specialists advise that freely roaming domestic cats not only affect nearby wildlife but also leave avenues open for potential disease transfer.

The new virus discovery has been reported in Microbiology Resource Announcements.