Sample metadata for feline leukemia virus dataset

Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is a gammaretrovirus with horizontally transmitted and endogenous forms. Domestic cats are the primary reservoir species, but FeLV outbreaks in endangered Florida panthers and Iberian lynx have resulted in mortalities. To assess prevalence and interspecific/intraspecific transmission, we conducted an extensive survey and phylogenetic analysis of FeLV infection in free-ranging pumas (n=641), bobcats (n=212) and shelter domestic cats (n=304). Samples were collected from coincident habitats across the United States between 1985-2018. FeLV infection was detected in 3.12% puma, 6.25% domestic cat, and 0.47% bobcat samples analyzed. Puma prevalence varied by location, with Florida having the highest rate of infection. FeLV env sequences revealed variation among isolates, and we identified two distinct clades. Both progressive and regressive infections were identified in cats and pumas. Based upon time and location of sampling and phylogenetic analysis, we inferred 3 spillover events between domestic cats and puma; 3 puma-to-puma transmissions were inferred in Florida. An additional 14 infections in pumas likely represented spillover events following contact with reservoir host domestic cat populations. Our data provides evidence that FeLV transmission from domestic cats to pumas occurs widely across the US, and puma-to-puma transmission may occur in genetically and geographically constrained populations.