An autopsy conducted on Tallinn Zoo s male asiatic lion Juna, who was put to sleep on January 13 after renal failure, uncovered that the feline was carrying the coronavirus.
In 2020, Juna was diagnosed with renal failure, a frequent issue among older felines. Juna s condition worsened significantly in the first weeks of January and vets did not give him much chance of improving. Due to pain and prevention of further suffering, Juna was sent off to an ever-lasting sleep on Wednesday, January 13.
In addition to renal failure, the animal was also suffering from symptoms of upper respiratory tract disease and since it is known that felines are more susceptible to COVID-19, the lion s autopsy also consisted of a coronavirus test. As results came in, it became clear that the lion was infected with the coronavirus.