Naturally occurring infections of Hendra have been reported in horses, humans, bats, and dogs. In which species was infection established experimentally and virus isolated from the urine?

• A. Chickens
• B. Cats
• C. Cows
• D. Goats

Answer: (B)

Understanding how Hendra virus interacts with different species involves looking at which animals can be infected in controlled experiments and how the virus may be shed. In this context, the important finding is that infection has been established experimentally in cats, and infectious virus has been isolated from their urine, showing a clear urinary shedding route. This combination demonstrates both susceptibility and a potential means of transmission via urine. The other species listed—chickens, cows, and goats—do not have this documented pattern of experimental infection with virus isolated from urine, so cats best fit the scenario described.