Research overview: emerging coronaviruses and the felid host range

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic underscored that felids are susceptible to emerging coronaviruses, prompting renewed attention to the coronavirus host range in cats. This overview surveys the susceptibility of felids to coronaviruses beyond their endemic feline coronavirus, including SARS-related viruses, the receptor biology that makes cats permissive, and the implications for both domestic and wild cats as potential hosts in future emergence events. It examines the monitoring of cats during outbreaks, the theoretical risk of felids as intermediate or amplifying hosts, and the lessons for preparedness. The synthesis connects emerging disease science to felid biology. It aims to help readers understand why the cat family warrants ongoing attention in coronavirus surveillance, given a demonstrated susceptibility that places felids among the mammals most relevant to the emergence and spread of these viruses.