In this podcast episode, we interview Dr. Julia Beatty, a distinguished Professor of Veterinary Medicine and Infectious Diseases at City University’s Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences. Dr. Beatty shares her remarkable journey from studying at University College London and the Royal Veterinary College to her extensive work in feline medicine and infectious diseases. She discusses her career milestones, including her PhD in feline virology at the University of Glasgow, her leadership roles at the University of Sydney, and her contributions to the field through various boards and editorial positions. Dr. Beatty also offers insights into her research, her passion for feline medicine, and the future of veterinary infectious diseases.
Hepatitis B-like viruses (hepadnaviruses) have been identified in a wide range of animals, including cats. The hepadnavirus in cats, sometimes referred to as feline hepadnavirus or FeHBV, is similar to the human hepatitis B virus but is specific to felines.This virus is a relatively recent discovery, and researchers like Dr. Julia Beatty have been at the forefront of studying it. FeHBV has been found in domestic cats, and while the full impact on feline health is still being explored, there is concern that it could contribute to liver disease in cats, much like its human counterpart does in people.The discovery of FeHBV has opened new avenues for research in feline medicine, particularly in understanding liver diseases in cats and the potential for transmission and prevention. As research continues, it may lead to better diagnostic and treatment options for cats affected by this virus.