Parasite prevalence in fecal samples from shelter dogs and cats across the Canadian provinces

Gastrointestinal parasites of owned cats in three districts of Central Ethiopia: Prevalence and risk factors

This present, cross-sectional study investigated gastrointestinal parasites in owned cats was carried out across Bishoftu, Dukem, and Addis Ababa city and towns in Central Ethiopia from February 2022 to April 2023. The primary objectives were to estimate the prevalence and assess the risk factors associated with these parasites. A total of 213 faecal samples were collected and processed using flotation and McMaster techniques. An overall prevalence of 34.7% (74/213) of gastrointestinal parasites was recorded in the examined cats. The cats harboured nematode (14.6%), cestode (12.7%), and protozoan (5.6%) parasites in single (32.9%) and mixed (1.9%) species. Specifically, Toxocara cati, Dipylidium caninum, Taenia spp., Giardia spp., and Physaloptera spp. were the more frequently identified parasites, with prevalences of 9.4%, 8.9%, 3.8%, 2.8%, and 2.8%, respectively. Statistically significant differences (P < 0.05) were observed in the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites among cats of different sexes, ages, and feeding conditions. Thus, higher prevalence rates were observed in females (49.1%, OR = 2.3), young cats (70%, OR = 4.7), and those consuming uncooked food (40.5%, OR = 3.6). Faecal consistency also showed a statistically significant association (P < 0.05) with the presence of gastrointestinal parasites. However, no significant differences were noted in the prevalence among cats of different housing conditions, seasons, or agro-ecological zones. Cats sharing shelter with families had the highest prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites (52.2%). In conclusion, this study uncovered a notably high occurrence of gastrointestinal parasites in cats in the surveyed regions, emphasizing the imperative of adopting a One Health strategy to address the zoonotic parasites found in cats, which pose significant public health risks.

Surveillance of Ancylostoma caninum in naturally infected dogs in Quebec, Canada, and assessment of benzimidazole anthelmintics reveal a variable efficacy with the presence of a resistant isolate in imported dogs

Ancylostoma caninum is a widely prevalent parasitic nematode in dogs across the world. There has been a notable increase in reports of anthelmintic resistance in A. caninum within the United States of America in recent years, which has led us to investigate the potential of this scenario in Canada. The study objectives were to assess the prevalence of A. caninum in two different groups, including a colony of rescued dogs in Canada and three imported Greyhound dogs from USA, and to evaluate the efficacy of two benzimidazole (BZ) anthelmintics against A. caninum, complemented with a molecular genetic analysis adapted to low prevalence. Fecal samples were collected at pre- and post-treatment with fenbendazole for the native shelters-origin group, and a combination of anthelmintic formulations, including the pro-BZ febantel for the USA-origin group. The coprology analyses found several genera of internal parasites. Canine ancylostomiasis was the most prevalent parasitosis with 30.77% in the native group and 100% in the USA group, but with overall low average of A. caninum eggs per gram. Through the fecal egg count reduction test (FECRT), applying a cut-off at 90% as baseline of egg reduction for successful efficacy, BZ showed variable efficacy. Furthermore, molecular analysis confirmed the presence of A. caninum in both groups of dogs and found differences in the genetics linked to BZ resistance on the A. caninum β-tubulin isotype 1 gene. In the isolate from the native group, both codons 167 and 200 were homozygous without the presence of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP). In contrast, the selected isolate from the USA group, showed a homozygous allele at position 200 and a heterozygous SNP at position 167. The latter was congruent with the low efficacy in FECRT and agrees with the recent findings of USA A. caninum isolate resistant phenotype to the BZ anthelmintics. The limitations of the study include an overall low eggs-per-gram in both canine groups, and the shortage of additional fecal samples from the USA group, restraining the molecular analysis only to one out of the three Greyhounds. This study provided some insights on the efficacy of BZs against A. caninum and revealed the presence of BZ resistant isolates in imported dogs in Quebec, Canada. All this information should be considered, for choosing the best strategy in the control of A. caninum using anthelmintic drugs.

Toxocara cati Infection in Cats (Felis catus): A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Introduction: Toxocariasis is an infection caused in canines, felines, humans, and other vertebrates by species of the genus Toxocara, such as T. canis and T. cati. The embryonated eggs of these parasites are the primary means of acquiring the infection for both definitive hosts, dogs and cats, respectively, and for intermediates, such as humans and other vertebrates. When deposited on park soils, environmental contamination becomes a risk to environmental, human, and animal health. Objective: To determine the global prevalence of Toxocara cati in cats (Felis catus). Methods: A systematic review of the literature was carried out in six databases (Scopus, PubMed, ScienceDirect, SciELO and Google Scholar) to evaluate the global prevalence of Toxocara cati in cats, defined by coproparasitological, histological, and molecular techniques. A meta-analysis was performed using a random effects model to calculate pooled prevalence and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). A two-tailed 5% alpha level was used for hypothesis testing. Results: Two hundred and eighty-nine studies were included. The global pooled prevalence of Toxocara cati in cats using coproparasitological methods was 17.0% (95.0% CI: 16.2-17.8%). In the subgroup analysis according to country, Nepal had the highest prevalence of T. cati infection (94.4%; 95% CI 89.7-99.2%). The pooled prevalence of T. cati infection by PCR in four studies was 4.9% (95.0% CI: 1.9-7.9%). Conclusions: This systematic review underscores the need for preventive action against toxocariasis due to its widespread prevalence. The interplay between animal and human health should be emphasised, necessitating measures like deworming cats, hygiene practices, and public education to mitigate risks. Safeguarding feline health can also reduce human transmission, benefiting both species.

Risk factors for Echinococcus multilocularis intestinal infections in owned domestic dogs in a North American metropolis (Calgary, Alberta)

Human alveolar echinococcosis is increasingly documented in Alberta, Canada. Its causative agent, Echinococcus multilocularis (Em), can be transmitted to humans by infected dogs. We assessed the prevalence and associated risk factors for Em infections in domestic dogs in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. In this cross-sectional study that coupled collection and assessment of dog feces with a survey on potential risk factors, 13 of 696 (Bayesian true prevalence, 2.4%; 95% CrI: 1.3-4.0%) individual dogs' feces collected during August and September 2012 were qPCR positive for Em. Sequencing two of these cases indicated that both were from the same Em European strain responsible for human infections in Alberta. Likelihood of intestinal Em was 5.6-times higher in hounds than other breeds, 4.6-times higher in dogs leashed at dog parks than those allowed off-leash, 3.1-times higher in dogs often kept in the backyard during spring and summer months than those rarely in the yard, and 3.3-times higher in dogs living in neighbourhoods bordering Bowmont park than those in other areas of Calgary. This situation warrants surveillance of dog infections as a preventative measure to reduce infections in North America.

Multicenter evaluation of the Vetscan Imagyst system using Ocus 40 and EasyScan One scanners to detect gastrointestinal parasites in feces of dogs and cats

The Vetscan Imagyst system (Zoetis) is a novel, artificial intelligence-driven detection tool that can assist veterinarians in the identification of enteric parasites in dogs and cats. This system consists of a sample preparation device, an automated digital microscope scanner, and a deep-learning algorithm. The EasyScan One scanner (Motic) has had good diagnostic performance compared with manual examinations by experts; however, there are drawbacks when used in veterinary practices in which space for equipment is often limited. To improve the usability of this system, we evaluated an additional scanner, the Ocus 40 (Grundium). Our objectives were to 1) qualitatively evaluate the performance of the Vetscan Imagyst system with the Ocus 40 scanner for identifying Ancylostoma, Toxocara, and Trichuris eggs, Cystoisospora oocysts, and Giardia cysts in canine and feline fecal samples, and 2) expand the assessment of the performance of the Vetscan Imagyst system paired with either the Ocus 40 or EasyScan One scanner to include a larger dataset of 2,191 fecal samples obtained from 4 geographic regions of the United States. When tested with 852 canine and feline fecal samples collected from different geographic regions, the performance of the Vetscan Imagyst system combined with the Ocus 40 scanner was correlated closely with manual evaluations by experts. Sensitivities were 80.0‒97.0% and specificities were 93.7‒100.0% across the targeted parasites. When tested with 1,339 fecal samples, the Vetscan Imagyst system paired with the EasyScan One scanner successfully identified the targeted parasite stages; sensitivities were 73.6‒96.4% and specificities were 79.7‒100.0%.

Diversity of helminths with zoonotic potential and molecular characterization of Toxocara canis infecting domestic dogs from locations of Amazon and Atlantic Forest Brazilian biomes

The coproparasitological examination of dogs (n=278) from two Brazilian biomes (Amazon [AZ] and Atlantic Forest [AF]) by centrifugal flotation demonstrated positivity values of 54.2% (AF) and 48.5% (AZ). The most prevalent parasites in AF were hookworms (81.0% - 47/58), Toxocara sp. (17.3% - 10/58) and Trichuris vulpis (12.1% - 7/58); while in AZ they were hookworms (86.7% - 72/83), Toxocara sp. (18.1% - 15/83), Dipylidium caninum (13.3% - 11/83) and T. vulpis (10.8% - 9/83). PCR was performed using the partial mitochondrial genes cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (pcox1) and NADH dehydrogenase 1 (pnad1) in 25 fecal samples positive for Toxocara sp. eggs and found one sample positive for pcox1 and six positives for pnad1. The sequencing of these samples was unsuccessful due to the difficulties inherent in copro-PCR+sequencing. The sequencing of 14 samples of T. canis adult helminths retrieved 11 sequences of 414 bp for pcox1 and nine sequences of 358 bp for pnad1. The phylogenetic trees of these sequences confirmed the species T. canis. Intraspecific genetic variation was only observed for pnad1. This is the second study involving molecular analysis of T. canis in dogs from Brazil and adds new information through the use of pnad1.

Factors associated with Giardia infection in dogs in southern Ontario, Canada

Information concerning risk factors associated with Giardia infection in dogs in southern Ontario, Canada, is currently lacking. This study therefore aimed to identify risk factors for Giardia infection in dogs that visit off-leash dog parks in southern Ontario. From May-November 2018, fecal samples were collected from 466 dogs in 12 off-leash dog parks in the Niagara and Hamilton regions of Ontario. A survey that asked questions pertaining to travel history (i.e., area of residence, locations and regions visited in the previous 6 months), basic medical history (i.e., spay/neuter status, veterinary visits, use of deworming medication), consumption of a raw diet, and the physical (i.e., age, sex, breed) and behavioral characteristics (i.e., off-leash activities, hunting activities) of each dog sampled was administered to the respective owner. All fecal samples were examined with the Giardia plate ELISA (IDEXX Laboratories) for parasite antigen. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted on the survey data to investigate putative risk factors for Giardia infection. Overall, 11.8% (95% CI: 9.2-15.1%) of samples tested positive for Giardia antigen. Results from the multivariable logistic regression analyses identified an interaction between dog age and spay/neuter status that was significantly associated with Giardia infection. The odds of infection were greater in intact as compared to neutered adult dogs (OR: 3.6, 95% CI: 1.7-7.9, p = 0.001), and in neutered juvenile dogs as compared to neutered adults (OR: 5.2, 95% CI: 2.2-12.2, p < 0.001). The results provide veterinarians with evidence-based information for identifying dogs at greatest risk of Giardia infection in southern Ontario.

Animal sheltering: A scoping literature review grounded in institutional ethnography

A diverse research literature now exists on the animals, staff and organisations involved in animal sheltering. We reviewed this research through the lens of institutional ethnography, a method of inquiry that focuses on the actual work that people do within institutions. The main topics, identified through a larger ethnographic study of animal sheltering, were: (i) research about shelter staff and officers; (ii) the relinquishment of animals to shelters; and (iii) animals' length of stay in shelters. After reviewing the literature, we held focus groups with shelter personnel to explore how their work experiences are or are not represented in the research. The review showed that stress caused by performing euthanasia has attracted much research, but the decision-making that leads to euthanasia, which may involve multiple staff and potential conflict, has received little attention. Research on 'compassion fatigue' has also tended to focus on euthanasia but a granular description about the practical and emotional work that personnel undertake that generates such fatigue is missing. Published research on both relinquishment and length of stay is dominated by metrics (questionnaires) and often relies upon shelter records, despite their limitations. Less research has examined the actual work processes involved in managing relinquishment as well as monitoring and reducing animals' length of stay. Institutional ethnography's focus on people's work activities can provide a different and more nuanced understanding of what is happening in animal sheltering and how it might better serve the needs of the animals and staff.

Occurrence of gastrointestinal parasites in dogs from Cuiabá, Mato Grosso

Gastrointestinal parasitism by helminths and protozoa poses risks to animal and human health owing to clinical changes and transmission of potentially zoonotic agents. Thus, the present study aimed to verify the occurrence of gastrointestinal parasites in dogs from the municipality of Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, Brazil, using coproparasitological tests. From June 2021 to April 2022, faecal samples were collected from domestic dogs at the Veterinary Hospital and Animal Protection Shelters in the Cuiabá municipality. A semi-structured questionnaire was applied to the owners and those responsible for the shelters to analyse the factors associated with gastrointestinal parasitism. A total of 353 faecal samples were collected and subjected to parasitological flotation and sedimentation techniques. Data were analysed using the chi-squared test and exploratory factorial analysis. The occurrence of gastrointestinal parasitism was 22.66% and the parasites found alone or in mixed infections were Ancylostoma spp., Trichuris vulpis, Toxocara spp., Dipylidium caninum, Cystoisospora spp., Giardia duodenalis, and coccidia. It was concluded that the occurrence of gastrointestinal parasites in dogs is frequent, and the variables associated with these infections were source origin, breed, age, coexistence with other animals, and dull fur.

Retrospective Survey of Dog and Cat Endoparasites in Ireland: Antigen Detection

Endoparasites of dogs and cats, play an important role in both veterinary medicine and public health. Untreated and stray dogs and cats, in particular, play an important role in contaminating the environment with important zoonotic parasites. Thus, the aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of intestinal parasites in stray dogs and cats using highly sensitive and specific copro-antigen tests. Archive faecal samples from previous surveys conducted between 2016−2019 from dogs (n = 789) and cats (n = 241) were included in this study. The IDEXX Fecal Dx™ antigen panel was used for the detection of Toxocara, hookworms, Trichuris and the SNAP™ Giardia antigen assay was used for the detection of Giardia infection. Giardia duodenalis was the most common parasite (26%, n = 205) detected in the dogs, followed by ascarids (17.6%, n = 139) and hookworms (5.3%, n = 42). Trichuris vulpis was only detected in 1 dog. Ascarids (23.2%, n = 56) was the most common parasite detected in the cats, followed by Giardia (12.9%, n = 31) and hookworms (n = 7, 2.9%). No whipworms were detected in cats. Overall, there was little difference in the positivity between sexes in both dogs and cats. However, in terms of age, adolescent dogs (<3 years) and kittens (<1 year) had the highest parasite prevalence overall, with G. duodenalis and ascarids being the most prevalent. This study shows a high prevalence of parasite infection in untreated and stray dogs and cats in the greater Dublin area in Ireland. Since they live in synanthropic conditions and can roam over vast distances they can contaminate public areas and pose a risk to both humans and owned pets that utilise these spaces. It is therefore important to raise public awareness and increase the knowledge on zoonotic parasites.

Oxidative Stress and High-Mobility Group Box 1 Assay in Dogs with Gastrointestinal Parasites

This study aimed to evaluate the concentration of reactive oxidative metabolites, the antioxidant barrier, thiol groups of plasma compounds, and high-mobility group box 1 in shelter dogs naturally infected with helminths. In addition, the correlation between clinical signs and oxidative stress was investigated. Sixty-six (41 male and 25 female) adult mixed-breed dogs housed in a shelter with the diagnosis of gastrointestinal nematodes (i.e., Ancylostoma spp., Uncinaria stenocephala, Toxocara canis, Toxascaris leonina, or Trichuris vulpis) were enrolled in Group 1 (G1) and twenty healthy adult dogs were included in Group 2 (G2), which served as the control. A clinical assessment was performed using a physician-based scoring system. Oxidative stress variables and high-mobility group box 1 were assessed and compared by the means of unpaired t-tests (p < 0.05). Spearman’s rank correlation was performed to calculate the correlation between oxidative stress variables, high-mobility group box 1, hematological parameters, and clinical signs. The results showed statistically significant values for reactive oxidative metabolites, thiol groups of plasma compounds, and high-mobility group box 1 in G1. Negative correlations between thiol groups and the number of red cells and hemoglobin were recorded. These preliminary results support the potential role of oxidative stress and HGMB-1 in the pathogenesis of gastrointestinal helminthiasis in dogs.

Canine nematode and Giardia spp. infections in dogs in Edmonton, Alberta, the "CANIDA" study

Background

Canine intestinal parasite prevalence may be influenced by geographical region, age, and health status of the dog. Behaviors such as predation, scavenging, or roaming as well as routine administration of anthelmintics also play a role. The purpose of this study was to evaluate fecal test results using zinc sulfate flotation by centrifugation combined with coproantigen testing directed at protein antigens excreted or secreted by hookworms (Ancylostoma spp. Uncinaria stenocephala), ascarids (Toxocara canis, Toxascaris spp. Baylisascaris spp.), whipworms (Trichuris vulpis), and Giardia spp. during active infection in owned dogs visiting dog parks in Western Canada.

Methods

A total of 774 participants were recruited from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Canine fecal samples were collected from seven dedicated off-leash dog parks. Participating dog owners responded to a questionnaire regarding their dogs’ signalment, previous veterinary history, and use of parasite-preventive products. Fecal samples were tested using zinc sulfate centrifugation combined with coproantigen testing.

Results

The overall prevalence of canine intestinal parasites in client-owned dogs was similar to previous studies conducted in the US. Mean age of dogs tested was 4 years, with puppies and older dogs having higher rates of infection than the mean. Fecal flotation centrifugation found 3.2% hookworm, ascarid, whipworm, and Giardia spp.-positive infections. Coproantigen testing identified 5.8% positive infections, including all of the above that were detected using fecal flotation centrifugation.

Conclusions

Coproantigen testing detected more hookworm, ascarid, whipworm, and Giardia spp.-positive samples in addition to detecting all positive results found using fecal flotation centrifugation. Fecal flotation centrifugation combined with coproantigen testing improves sensitivity over flotation alone and may detect pre-patent or sub-clinical infections in dogs visiting public dog parks.

Graphical Abstract

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13071-022-05386-5.

Pharmacokinetics of orally administered single‐dose ponazuril in cats

Cats and kittens in animal shelters and catteries regularly suffer from severe gastrointestinal coccidiosis, which can be fatal, and there are no drugs labeled for feline coccidiosis in the United States. Ponazuril, a triazine‐class drug, is increasingly used at a dose of 50 mg/kg/d, orally, for three to five days in shelter environments for coccidiosis. A single oral dose of ponazuril paste 15% (Marquis^®; Merial) at 50 mg/kg was administered to six healthy adult cats. Sample analysis was completed via high‐performance liquid chromatography. Plasma concentrations peaked at 7.49 ± 2.06 µg/ml at 14.67 ± 7.45 hr post‐administration. This study shows that ponazuril achieved a plasma concentration that inhibits growth of similar organisms after a single oral dose in cats. Further studies are necessary to optimize dosing for the treatment of clinical coccidiosis in cats.

Endoparasitism of Golden Retrievers: Prevalence, risk factors, and associated clinicopathologic changes

Endoparasitism is a common disease in dogs throughout their lifetime despite the widespread availability of inexpensive diagnostic tests and effective treatments. The consequences of host parasite interactions in otherwise apparently healthy dogs remains largely unknown. This cross-sectional study used complete blood count, serum biochemistry, and fecal flotation data collected from 3,018 young dogs (<3 years of age) enrolled within the Morris Animal Foundation Golden Retriever Lifetime Study (GRLS) to determine the prevalence of endoparasitism and compare bloodwork values of parasite positive and negative participants using logistic regression. Variables including age, gender, reproductive status, and geographic region at the time of evaluation were assessed to identify potential associations. To the authors’ knowledge, a comprehensive assessment of clinicopathological changes associated with endoparasite infection in a large cohort has not been completed in the recent decade. The overall prevalence of endoparasitism was 6.99% (211/3018). Dogs who were parasite positive had statistically lower albumin (P = 0.004), lower RBC count (P = 0.01), higher neutrophil count (P = 0.002), and higher platelet count (P <0.001) as compared to parasite negative dogs. It was also concluded that dogs living in rural areas were more likely to have endoparasites than those living in suburban areas. Epidemiological data is crucial for the design and monitoring of prevention and control strategies. Identification of endoparasites by fecal testing is an essential tool to identify susceptible and resistant animals that can act as spreaders and reservoirs of intestinal parasites thereby enabling appropriate therapy and reducing the risk of new infection to animals and humans. Further epidemiological studies are needed to prevent, monitor, and develop new strategies to control endoparasites.

Prevalence of intestinal parasites in dogs in southern Ontario, Canada, based on fecal samples tested using sucrose double centrifugation and Fecal Dx® tests

In southern Ontario, Canada, there is a lack of information concerning the prevalence of intestinal parasites in dogs. As such, this study aimed to characterize the prevalence of intestinal parasites in dogs visiting off-leash parks in the region using sucrose double centrifugation and Fecal Dx® tests. Additionally, data obtained via the sucrose double centrifugation method were used to evaluate the performance of the Fecal Dx® tests. Fecal samples were collected from 466 dogs aged ≥6 months from May to November 2018 (mean age = 3.7 years). Overall, eleven intestinal parasites were identified using sucrose double centrifugation. Roundworm eggs (Toxocara canis and Baylisascaris procyonis), hookworm eggs (Ancylostoma caninum and Uncinaria stenocephala), and whipworm eggs (Trichuris vulpis) were identified in 1.07% (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.38-2.56%), 5.79% (95% CI 3.85-8.31%), and 5.15% (95% CI 3.33-7.57) of samples, respectively. Using the Fecal Dx® tests, 1.07% (95% CI 0.38-2.56%), 4.29% (95% CI 2.64-6.55%), and 2.15% (95% CI 1.03-3.91) of the samples tested positive for roundworm, hookworm, and whipworm antigen, respectively. To assess the level of agreement between the Fecal Dx® tests and sucrose double centrifugation, three methods were used. Cohen's kappa indicated a fair-to-moderate level of agreement between Fecal Dx® tests and sucrose double centrifugation. In contrast, the prevalence-adjusted bias-adjusted kappa and Gwet's first-order agreement coefficient indicated almost perfect agreement between these tests, ranging from 0.87 to 0.99 among the parasites examined. This study provides valuable information on the prevalence of intestinal parasites in mature dogs in southern Ontario that will help guide parasite control recommendations for dogs in this region.

Health Benefits and Pharmacological Properties of Carvone

Carvone is a monoterpene ketone contained in the essential oils of several aromatic and medicinal plants of the Lamiaceae and Asteraceae families. From aromatic plants, this monoterpene is secreted at different concentrations depending on the species, the parts used, and the extraction methods. Currently, pharmacological investigations showed that carvone exhibits multiple pharmacological properties such as antibacterial, antifungal, antiparasitic, antineuraminidase, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activities. These studies were carried out in vitro and in vivo and involved a great deal of knowledge on the mechanisms of action. Indeed, the antimicrobial effects are related to the action of carvone on the cell membrane and to ultrastructural changes, while the anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and anticancer effects involve the action on cellular and molecular targets such as inducing of apoptosis, autophagy, and senescence. With its multiple mechanisms, carvone can be considered as natural compounds to develop therapeutic drugs. However, other investigations regarding its precise mechanisms of action as well as its acute and chronic toxicities are needed to validate its applications. Therefore, this review discusses the principal studies investigating the pharmacological properties of carvone, and the mechanism of action underlying some of these properties. Moreover, further investigations of major pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic studies were also suggested.

A review on invasions by parasites with complex life cycles: the European strain of Echinococcus multilocularis in North America as a model

In a fast-changing and globalized world, parasites are moved across continents at an increasing pace. Co-invasion of parasites and their hosts is leading to the emergence of infectious diseases at a global scale, underlining the need for integration of biological invasions and disease ecology research. In this review, the ecological and evolutionary factors influencing the invasion process of parasites with complex life cycles were analysed, using the invasion of the European strain of Echinococcus multilocularis in North America as a model. The aim was to propose an ecological framework for investigating the invasion of parasites that are trophically transmitted through predator–prey interactions, showing how despite the complexity of the cycles and the interactions among multiple hosts, such parasites can overcome multiple barriers and become invasive. Identifying the key ecological processes affecting the success of parasite invasions is an important step for risk assessment and development of management strategies, particularly for parasites with the potential to infect people (i.e. zoonotic).

Host and geographic differences in prevalence and diversity of gastrointestinal helminths of foxes (Vulpes vulpes), coyotes (Canis latrans) and wolves (Canis lupus) in Québec, Canada

Wild canids are hosts to a wide range of parasites and can play a role in transmission of zoonoses. As many parasites are transmitted through food webs, and wild canids are at high trophic levels, parasite prevalence and diversity in wild canids can serve as excellent indicators of ecosystem health. Our main objectives were to update knowledge on the composition of gastrointestinal helminths in wild canids from Québec, Canada, and to describe differences in parasite prevalence and diversity among canid species and regions. Hunters and trappers provided whole carcasses of red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) (N = 176), and intestinal tracts of coyotes (Canis latrans) (N = 77) and gray wolves (Canis lupus) (N = 23) harvested for non-research purposes over the winter of 2016-2017. A modified Stoll's centrifugation sucrose flotation on feces of 250 wild canids was used, and eggs of one family and eight genera of parasitic helminths were recovered: diphyllobothriids, Taenia/Echinococcus spp., Capillaria spp., Toxascaris sp., Toxocara sp., Trichuris sp., Uncinaria sp., and Metorchis sp. Adult Taenia spp. cestodes were recovered from 61 of 276 (22%) canids. Six different species (T. hydatigena, T. twitchelli, T. crassiceps, T. polyacantha, T. krabbei, and T. pisiformis-"like") were differentiated based on DNA sequenced from 65 individual adult cestodes using primers for the nicotinamide adenosine dinucleotide dehydrogenase subunit 1 (ND1) and cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (CO1) mitochondrial DNA loci. Alaria sp. trematodes infected 89 of 276 canids (32%). A subset were identified as A. americana at the CO1 locus. The marine trematode Cryptocotyle lingua was reported for the first time in foxes in the province of Québec. These results help us understand more fully the predator-prey relationships within this group of canids. This baseline data in regional parasite prevalence and intensity is critical in order to detect future changes following ecological disturbances due to climate and landscape alterations.

The global prevalence and risk factors of Cryptosporidium infection among cats during 1988-2021: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Cryptosporidiosis is an important zoonosis caused by Cryptosporidium. This disease causes a global public health problem. The cat is considered to be one of the potential hosts for transmitting Cryptosporidium to humans. In this study, a global meta-analysis for Cryptosporidium infection in cats was performed. The articles related to Cryptosporidium infection in cats were systematically searched in databases China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang data, VIP Chinese Journal Database, PubMed, and ScienceDirect. Finally, 92 articles published from 1988 to 2021, which met the criteria of systematic review and meta-analysis, were collected. During the selected period, the overall prevalence of Cryptosporidium among cats was identified to be 6.0%. The prevalence of Cryptosporidium detected by microscopy, coproantigens, and molecular biology methods were 4.2%, 8.2%, and 5.0%, respectively. Among 9 species/genotypes (C. felis, C. parvum, C. muris, Cryptosporidium rat genotype IV, C. baileyi, C. ryanae, C. hominis, Cryptosporidium sp. rat genotype III and most closely related to Cryptosporidium sp. rat genotype III), the prevalence of C. parvum (4.2%) was significantly higher than that of other species/genotypes. Among five continents, the prevalence of Cryptosporidium in Africa (30.5%) was significantly higher than in other continents. We also analyzed the effects of different geographical factors (longitude, latitude, altitude, mean temperature, precipitation, and humidity) on Cryptosporidium infection among cats. The results showed that cryptosporidiosis was common in cats all over the world. This systematic review and meta-analysis has systematically introduced the global epidemiology of Cryptosporidium in cats and correlated risk factors. Health authorities, doctors, veterinarians and cat owners' awareness of the prevalence, risk factors and complications of Cryptosporidium are important for the development of effective prevention strategies for cryptosporidiosis.

Insights into hookworm prevalence in Asia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Hookworm infections are neglected tropical diseases of humans and animals worldwide. A meta-analysis and systematic review was designed to evaluate the prevalence of hookworm infection in animal and human hosts in Asia until July 2018.

METHODS

The available online articles of five English databases (PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, Web of Science and Google Scholar) were explored.

RESULTS

The most parasitized carnivores were jackal (48%, CI: 4 to 91%), followed by dog (41%, CI: 29 to 53%), cat (26%, CI: 14 to 38%) and the red fox (19%, CI: 13 to 24%). The weighted prevalence of Ancylostoma braziliensis, A. caninum, A. ceylanicum, A. tubaeforme and Uncinaria stenocephala isolated from different canids were found to be 27% (CI: 21 to 33%), 23% (CI: 7.0 to 53%), 24% (CI: 12 to 35%), 44% (CI: 37 to 51%) and 37% (CI: 18 to 55%), respectively. In total, 98 records were obtained for human hookworms from 3209 760 examined individuals and the calculated weighted prevalence in this population was 19% (CI: 17 to 20%).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings highlight a desirable ecological milieu for parasite survival and transmission in such territories, which implicates revisiting control programs and public health infrastructures in those areas.

Intestinal Parasites and Fecal Cortisol Metabolites in Multi-Unowned-Cat Environments: The Impact of Housing Conditions

Simple Summary

Multi-unowned-cat environments can be highly stressful for cats, and infectious and parasite diseases spread quickly and are difficult to prevent. This study aimed to determine the occurrence of intestinal parasites and fecal cortisol metabolites (FCM) in cat feces collected from different multi-cat environments and assess the effect of housing conditions on intestinal parasites and FCM levels in order to develop more efficient control strategies. Cat fecal samples from rescue shelters, catteries and feline colonies were analyzed with coprological methods to detect intestinal parasite patency and determine FCM. Helminth infection was mainly detected in free-roaming cats. In confined cats, protozoa infections were more likely detected in shelter cats than in cattery cats. Exposure to dogs was associated with parasite infection and cats highly exposed to dogs with visual contact and audible barking showed higher intestinal protozoa prevalence than cats that were not exposed to dogs. FCM levels were correlated with enclosure size and protozoa infection. Reducing stress by improving housing in terms of enclosure size and avoiding exposure to dogs may have an impact on the occurrence of intestinal parasites, especially protozoa.

Abstract

Housing conditions were assessed in different unowned multi-cat management models in order to evaluate their impact on the occurrence of intestinal parasites and fecal cortisol metabolite (FCM) levels. Fresh stool fecal samples were collected from rescue shelters, catteries and feline colonies for coprological analyses in order to detect intestinal parasite patency and fecal cortisol metabolites. A questionnaire provided information about the facilities, management and housing conditions of cats, including information about dog exposure, enclosure size, environment enrichment and changes to group composition. Overall, intestinal parasite infection was detected in 58.2% of fecal samples collected. The occurrence of intestinal parasites detected in free-roaming cats was 82.2%, mainly due to helminth infection. The parasite infection rate was 57.3% in rescue shelters and 34.6% in catteries. In confined cats, protozoa infection was more likely detected in rescue shelters than in catteries (RR = 2.02 (1.30–3.14), p = 0.0012). Although the FCM values were very variable between cats, the enclosure size and parasite infection were correlated with the average FCM. A small enclosure size was correlated with high fecal cortisol metabolites (p = 0.016). Protozoa-positive samples showed higher FCM levels than negative samples (p = 0.0150). High dog exposure was statistically associated with protozoa infection (p = 0.0006). The results indicated that improving housing, especially in terms of floor space and avoiding dog exposure, reduces stress and can thus be applied to make control strategies in multi-unowned-cat environments more efficient, especially when cats are confined.

Prevalence of intestinal parasites in dogs from public shelters in Serbia

Data on endoparasitic infections in dogs from dog shelters in Southeastern Europe are limited; thus, this study aimed to add to the existing knowledge on this topic by reporting on the prevalence of intestinal parasites in dogs from public dog shelters in the Republic of Serbia. In 2017 and 2018, individual and pooled fecal samples, were collected from 1267 dogs from six shelters. All samples were qualitatively examined for parasites using flotation tests. Seven taxa of intestinal parasites were identified: Cystoisospora spp., ascarids: Toxocara canis and Toxascaris leonina, hookworms, Trichuris vulpis, taeniids and Dipylidium caninum. The overall prevalence of intestinal parasites was 58. 3 % (78. 1 % in young dogs and 53.1 % in adult dogs). The parasites detected in both young (<1 year old) and adult dogs (>1 year old) were Cystoisospora spp. (20 % and 4.9 %), T. canis (33.5 % and 14.7 %), T. leonina (7.7 % and 2.3 %), and hookworms (16.9 % and 15 %), respectively. However, T. vulpis (9.6 %), taeniids (1.3 %), and D. caninum (5.4 %) were detected only in adult dogs. In the Belgrade shelter, young dogs had a higher prevalence of endoparasitic infections (18.9 %, 49/260) than adult dogs (14.8 %, 149/1007). In the Subotica, Jagodina and Niš shelters, young dogs had significantly higher (p < 0.001 and p < 0.05, respectively) prevalence of endoparasitic infections (10 %, 12.3 % and 14.6 %) than adult dogs (5.3 %, 8 % and 7.2 %). These results will be useful for establishing health care programs in dog shelters and implementing effective strategies for the control of intestinal parasites.

Endoparasite prevalence and infection risk factors among cats in an animal shelter in Estonia

Cats are important hosts for different zoonotic parasites that can be hazardous to human health. To date, few studies have attempted to identify the factors affecting parasitic infections in shelter animals. This study aims to analyse the presence of endoparasites in shelter cats in Tartu, Estonia, and identify factors affecting endoparasite prevalence and intensity. The risk factors considered were age, location (urban vs rural cats) and time spent in shelter. In total, 290 faecal samples were collected from cats at an animal shelter in 2015-2016 and investigated for endoparasites using the concentration flotation technique. In total, 138 shelter cats (47.6%) were infected with endoparasites and their overall prevalence was: Toxocara cati (36.6%), Cystoisospora spp. (12.4%), Taeniidae gen. sp. (4.1%), Toxoplasma gondii/Hammondia hammondi (3.4%), Eucoleus aerophilus (2.1%), Cryptosporidium spp. (2.1%), Ancylostoma sp. (0.7%) and Giardia sp. (0.7%). Coinfections occurred in 38 cats (13.1%) most frequently of T. cati and Cystoisospora spp. (4.5%), Cystoisospora spp. and T. gondii/H. hammondi (2.1%). Where species identification of cestode and nematode samples was not possible according to morphology, genetic analysis of the mitochondrial cox1 gene was carried out. DNA was successfully analysed for 6 out of 13 samples that required genetic identification, revealing Ancylostoma tubaeforme in one nematode sample and Hydatigera taeniaeformis in five cestode samples. Cats from rural areas had significantly higher endoparasite prevalence than cats from urban areas. Helminth prevalence decreased to some extent due to anthelmintic treatment in cats available for adoption (held ≥15 days in the shelter), whereas the prevalence of infection with protists increased significantly in these animals. It is important to note that the analysis revealed lower infection intensity for quarantine cats (held 1-14 days in the shelter) compared with cats available for adoption. The relatively high prevalence of endoparasites (including zoonotic) in shelter cats ready for adoption suggests that current anthelminthic procedures require improvements.

Further evaluation and validation of the VETSCAN IMAGYST: in-clinic feline and canine fecal parasite detection system integrated with a deep learning algorithm

Background

Fecal examinations in pet cats and dogs are key components of routine veterinary practice; however, their accuracy is influenced by diagnostic methodologies and the experience level of personnel performing the tests. The VETSCAN IMAGYST system was developed to provide simpler and easier fecal examinations which are less influenced by examiners’ skills. This system consists of three components: a sample preparation device, an automated microscope scanner, and analysis software. The objectives of this study were to qualitatively evaluate the performance of the VETSCAN IMAGYST system on feline parasites (Ancylostoma and Toxocara cati) and protozoan parasites (Cystoisospora and Giardia) and to assess and compare the performance of the VETSCAN IMAGYST centrifugal flotation method to reference centrifugal and passive flotation methods.

Methods

To evaluate the diagnostic performance of the scanning and algorithmic components of the VETSCAN IMAGYST system, fecal slides were prepared by the VETSCAN IMAGYST centrifugal flotation technique with pre-screened fecal samples collected from dogs and cats and examined by both an algorithm and parasitologists. To assess the performance of the VETSCAN IMAGYST centrifugal flotation technique, diagnostic sensitivity and specificity were calculated and compared to those of conventional flotation techniques.

Results

The performance of the VETSCAN IMAGYST algorithm closely correlated with evaluations by parasitologists, with sensitivity of 75.8–100% and specificity of 93.1-100% across the targeted parasites. For samples with 50 eggs or less per slide, Lin’s concordance correlation coefficients ranged from 0.70 to 0.95 across the targeted parasites. The results of the VETSCAN IMAGYST centrifugal flotation method correlated well with those of the conventional centrifugal flotation method across the targeted parasites: sensitivity of 65.7–100% and specificity of 97.6–100%. Similar results were observed for the conventional passive flotation method compared to the conventional centrifugal flotation method: sensitivity of 56.4–91.7% and specificity of 99.4–100%.

Conclusions

The VETSCAN IMAGYST scanning and algorithmic systems with the VETSCAN IMAGYST fecal preparation technique demonstrated a similar qualitative performance to the parasitologists’ examinations with conventional fecal flotation techniques. Given the deep learning nature of the VETSCAN IMAGYST system, its performance is expected to improve over time, enabling it to be utilized in veterinary clinics to perform fecal examinations accurately and efficiently.

Severe Concomitant Physaloptera sp., Dirofilaria immitis, Toxocara cati, Dipylidium caninum, Ancylostoma sp. and Taenia taeniaeformis Infection in a Cat

Here we describe an unusual and severe mixed parasitic infection in a cat that died during routine surgery. Gastric Physaloptera sp., cardiac Dirofilaria immitis, and intestinal Toxocara cati, Dipylidium caninum, Ancylostoma sp. and Taenia taeniaeformis were observed. Histologic lesions included chronic proliferative pulmonary endarteritis, mild increase of mucosal intestinal white cells, and terminal aspiration of gastric content. The severe dirofilariasis may have contributed to this patient death during anesthesia.

A global assessment of Echinococcus multilocularis infections in domestic dogs: proposing a framework to overcome past methodological heterogeneity

Echinococcus multilocularis, the aetiological agent of human Alveolar Echinococcosis, is transmitted between small mammals and wild or domestic canids. Dogs infected with E. multilocularis as dead-end hosts. Whereas E. multilocularis infections in wild hosts and humans have been well-studied in recent decades, infections in domestic dogs are sparsely reported. This literature review and meta-analysis highlighted gaps in the available data and provided a re-assessment of the global distribution of domestic dog E. multilocularis infections. We found 46 published articles documenting the prevalence of E. multilocularis in domestic dogs from 21 countries across Europe, Asia and North America. Apparent prevalence estimates ranged from 0.00% (0.00-0.33%) in Germany to 55.50% (26.67-81.12%) in China. Most studies were conducted in areas of high human Alveolar Echinococcosis. By accounting for reassessed diagnostic sensitivity and specificity, we estimated true prevalence in a subset of studies, which varied between 0.00% (0.00-12.42%) and 41.09% (21.12-65.81%), as these true prevalence estimates were seldom reported in the articles themselves. Articles also showed a heavy emphasis on rural dogs, dismissing urban ones, which is concerning due to the role urbanisation plays in the transmission of zoonotic diseases, especially those utilising pets as definitive hosts. Lastly, population studies on canine Alveolar Echinococcosis were absent, highlighting the relative focus on human rather than animal health. We thus developed a framework for investigating domestic dog E. multilocularis infections and performing risk assessment of dog-associated transmission to fill the gaps found in the literature.

All about toxoplasmosis in cats: the last decade

Toxoplasma gondii infections are common in humans and animals worldwide. Toxoplasmosis continues to be of public health concern. Cats (domestic and wild felids) are the most important host in the epidemiology of toxoplasmosis because they are the only species that can excrete the environmentally resistant oocysts in feces. Cats can excrete millions of oocysts and a single cat can spread infection to many hosts. The present paper summarizes information on prevalence, persistence of infection, clinical signs, and diagnosis of T. gondii infections in domestic and wild cats for the past decade. Special emphasis is paid to genetic diversity of T. gondii isolates from cats. Review of literature indicates that a unique genotype (ToxoDB genotype #9 or Chinese 1) is widely prevalent in cats in China and it has been epidemiologically linked to outbreaks of clinical toxoplasmosis in pigs and deaths in humans in China; this genotype has rarely been detected in other countries. This review will be of interest to biologists, parasitologists, veterinarians, and public health workers.

Preliminary Study on the Prevalence of Endoparasite Infections and Vector-borne Diseases in Outdoor Dogs in Bulgaria

The present work was designed to evaluate the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites and some vector-borne pathogens in dogs in Bulgaria. A total of 172 owned dogs, keeping outside, were included in the study. Fecal samples were examined using standard flotation and sedimentation methods. Blood samples were processed by Knott's technique, SNAP™ 4Dx Plus Test (IDEXX) and Angio Detect™ Test (IDEXX). The overall prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites was 64.5%. Eggs of hookworms (Ancylostoma sp. and Uncinaria sp.) were the most frequently detected (54.1%), followed by Trichuris vulpis (15.1%), Capillaria sp. (11.0%), Toxocara canis (6.4%), Cystoisospora sp. (4.1%), Sarcocystis sp. (2.3%), Toxascaris leonina (1.7%), Taenia sp. (1.2%) and Linguatula serrata (0.6%). In addition, hookworms were the most commonly involved in the cases of single infection (20.3%). Combinations between Capillaria sp./hookworms and T. vulpis/hookworms were the most common co-infections (4.1% and 2.9%, respectively). Blood samples revealed the presence of antibodies against Ehrlichia sp. (13.4%), Anaplasma sp. (13.4%) and Borrelia burgdorferi (1.7%). Antigens of Dirofilaria immitis and Angiostrongylus vasorum were detected in 10.5% and 0.6% of the samples tested, respectively. Microfilariae of Dirofilaria repens were found in 5.8% of the blood samples. Additionally, the prevalence of D. immitis and Ehrlichia sp. was significantly higher in adult than in young dogs (p<0.05). In contrast, the gender was not considered as a risk factor contributing to the occurrence of infections.

Toxocara prevalence in dogs, cats and the environment in Russia

The toxocariasis incidence in Russia is relatively low (1.8 cases per 100,000 individuals) and the parasite is not a major healthcare concern. However, the proportion of primary hosts testing positive for the parasite is high and varies between 3% and 100% in dogs (on average 33%), and between 6% and 52% in cats. Higher prevalence was observed in Volga, Urals and Siberia regions. Levels of contamination of soil, children's playgrounds and sandboxes is also high, with up to 100% contamination rates determined in some studies, but more commonly prevalence of contamination around 40% was reported. There is a pronounced seasonality in the prevalence of Toxocara in primary hosts and the soil, with peaks in the summer and autumn. Most likely, a lack of permissive conditions for the development of eggs in the winter determines observed seasonal patterns, which are different than those observed in most other countries. Toxocara eggs were found in 4-10% of vegetables and greenery samples tested, suggesting that they can contribute to the transmission of Toxocara.

Prevalence, seasonal and geographical distribution of parasitic diseases in dogs in Plateau State Nigeria: a 30-year retrospective study (1986-2015)

Parasitic diseases of dogs are now major economic and public health issues in Nigeria due to indiscriminate reproduction of dogs, lack of appropriate policies on pet ownership and diseases control as well as inadequate veterinary care. In order to understand the prevalence, seasonal variation and distribution of parasitic diseases of dogs in this region of Nigeria, the present study conducted a 30-year retrospective analysis in the referral veterinary centre, Vom, and analysed data using the Chi square test and the factor analysis. Of the 26,844 dogs handled between January 1986 and December 2015, 17,663 (65.8%) had different parasitic diseases. Yearly distribution of parasitic diseases varied significantly (p < 0.0001) and ranged between 52.0 and 85.4%. Age, seasonal and disease specific prevalence rates ranged between 2.8 and 80.5%. Prevalence rates in females 78.2% (95% CI 77.6-78.9) and indigenous breed 70.0% (95% CI 69.2-70.7) were significantly higher (p < 0.0001) from those of the males 47.2% (95% CI 46.2-48.1) and exotic breeds of dogs 60.7% (95% CI 59.8-61.6), respectively. Ancylostomosis was the most prevalent (15.9%) disease while Barkin Ladi recorded the highest regional prevalence. It is pertinent to enact appropriate disease control policies and observe control programmes including vector control and improved hygiene to curtail the economic and public health threats associated with these diseases.

Endoparasites of household and shelter cats in the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Endoparasitic infections are associated with morbidity in cats. This study aimed to investigate the occurrence of endoparasites among cats of different life stages in the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The samples were analyzed individually by macroscopic exploration for proglottids and centrifugal-flotation. Stool samples were obtained from household cats (n = 57) and shelter cats (n = 336). Endoparasites were detected in 50.64% of the samples. Among household and shelter cats, 21.05% and 55.66% were infected with endoparasites, respectively. In household cats, the most prevalent endoparasites were Ancylostoma spp. (in 25.0%) and Strongyloides spp. (in 25.0%), followed by Toxocara spp. (in 16.67%), Dipylidium caninum (in 16.67%), Cystoisospora spp. (in 8.33%), and Uncinaria spp. + Ancylostoma spp. (in 8.33%). In shelter cats, the most prevalent endoparasite was Ancylostoma spp. (in 29.41%), followed by Cystoisospora spp. (in 26.20%) and Toxocara spp. (in 16.58%), as well as Cystoisospora spp. + Toxocara spp. (in 8.02%); Ancylostoma spp. + Toxocara spp. (in 11.76%); Cystoisospora spp. + Ancylostoma spp. (in 3.74%); Cystoisospora spp. + Toxocara spp. + Ancylostoma spp. (in 3.21%); and Dipylidium caninum + Ancylostoma spp. (in 0.53%). Endoparasitic infections in cats underscore the need for preventive veterinary care and routine coproparasitologic tests.

Toxocara seroprevalence in Canada-Climate, environment and culture

Human infection with larvae of canine and feline roundworms belonging to the genus Toxocara can lead to devastating visceral, neural or ocular larvae migrans disease. However, such overt disease represents a fraction of cases. Far more common is covert toxocariasis, a less severe, but clinically symptomatic form of disease, and those who are exposed to infective larvae and seroconvert, but appear to be asymptomatic. Canada represents a unique epidemiological environment for Toxocara infection and exposure. Although the freezing conditions of the vast Arctic Tundra region of the North are thought unlikely to support the lifecycle of Toxocara spp., exposure and seroconversion does occur in people belonging to Inuit communities of this region. Further south, in the sub-Arctic of northern Quebec and Saskatchewan, there is a higher seroprevalence in many Canadian First Nations communities. The epidemiology of these infections is different to that seen in the non-Indigenous communities of the Humid Continental region. Poverty and climate play a major part in the risk of Toxocara seropositive status in Canada, but other factors such as unique cultural practices, population density of humans and reservoir hosts, and contact with wildlife are also factors in exposure and subsequent seroconversion in Canadian communities. This review discusses previous Toxocara seroprevalence studies performed in Canada, summarizes the data for domestic and wild animal reservoir hosts of Toxocara canis, Toxocara cati, Toxocara vitulorum and the closely related helminth, Toxascaris leonina. It also discusses how the unique and varied aspects of climate, culture and environment impacts human Toxocara exposure in Canada.

Uncontrolled Outdoor Access for Cats: An Assessment of Risks and Benefits

Uncontrolled outdoor access is associated with a number of welfare concerns for companion cats, including increased risks of disease and parasites, injury or death due to traffic, predation or ingestion of toxic substances, and getting permanently separated from their owner. In addition, cats pose a threat to local wildlife due to predatory behaviors, and can sometimes be a nuisance to human neighbors. Despite these concerns, recent estimates suggest that many owners are still providing their cats with uncontrolled outdoor access, likely because it also offers welfare benefits by allowing cats to perform natural behaviors, such as hunting, exploring, and climbing. While some have suggested that outdoor access is necessary to meet cats' behavioral needs and to prevent related behavioral problems, others have recommended various environmental enrichment strategies that can be developed to meet these needs within an indoor environment or through supervised and controlled outdoor access. This review examines the welfare issues and benefits associated with outdoor access for cats, as well as what is currently known about peoples' practices, knowledge, and attitudes about the provision of outdoor access for cats.

Toxocara spp. in dogs and cats in Canada

Toxocara spp. (T. canis and T. cati) are the dominant ascarids of domestic dogs and cats, respectively, in populated regions of southern Canada, where they pose animal and public health concerns. A review of the published literature indicated that prevalence of both parasites is declining in more recent studies (post 2000), likely due to changes in animal husbandry as well as use of anthelmintics. Geographically, prevalence was higher in the east (Atlantic), and in more southerly locations, possibly due to more favourable climate conditions for egg survival and development. At northern latitudes and in wild felids and canids in general, the non-zoonotic ascarid Toxascaris leonina appears to outcompete Toxocara spp.; however, T. leonina is rare in domestic cats in Canada. Prevalence of Toxocara spp. was higher in cats than dogs, shelter/rural/remote/feral/stray vs owned animals, and young vs adult animals, as has been observed in many other studies and regions of the world. While the regional prevalences in this review should be interpreted carefully in light of variation in diagnostic methods and study populations, they generally follow the same trends observed in a recent national study of shelter animals. This review is a timely summary of the state of the published knowledge on prevalence of Toxocara spp. in Canada, and highlights knowledge gaps to be addressed, including the northern distributional limits of these species in Canada, the potential for transmission to and from wildlife hosts, and the public health significance of the parasite in the mainstream Canadian population.

Prevalence of Toxocara and Toxascaris infection among human and animals in Iran with meta-analysis approach

BACKGROUND

Toxocariasis is a worldwide zoonotic parasitic disease caused by species of Toxocara and Toxascaris, common in dogs and cats. Herein, a meta-analysis was contrived to assess the prevalence of Toxocara/Toxascaris in carnivore and human hosts in different regions of Iran from April 1969 to June 2019.

METHODS

The available online articles of English (PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, and Ovid) and Persian (SID, Iran Medex, Magiran, and Iran Doc) databases and also the articles that presented in held parasitology congresses of Iran were involved.

RESULTS

The weighted prevalence of Toxocara/Toxascaris in dogs (Canis familiaris) and cats (Felis catus) was 24.2% (95% CI: 18.0-31.0%) and 32.6% (95% CI: 22.6-43.4%), respectively. Also, pooled prevalence in jackal (Canis aureus) and red fox (Vulpes vulpes) was 23.3% (95% CI: 7.7-43.2%) and 69.4% (95% CI: 60.3-77.8%), correspondingly. Weighted mean prevalence of human cases with overall 28 records was 9.3% (95% CI: 6.3-13.1%). The weighted prevalence of Toxocara canis, Toxocara cati, and Toxascaris leonina was represented as 13.8% (95% CI: 9.8-18.3%), 28.5% (95% CI: 20-37.7%) and 14.3% (95% CI: 8.1-22.0%), respectively.

CONCLUSION

Our meta-analysis results illustrate a considerable prevalence rate of Toxocara/Toxascaris, particularly in cats and dogs of northern parts of Iran. The presence of suitable animal hosts, optimum climate and close contact of humans and animals would have been the reason for higher seroprevalence rates of human cases in our region. Given the significance clinical outcomes of human Toxocara/Toxascaris, necessary measures should be taken.

Endoparasites in dogs and cats diagnosed at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital (VTH) of the University of Prince Edward Island between 2000 and 2017. A large-scale retrospective study

Although many studies on the frequency of endoparasites in dogs and cats in Canada have been reported, seasonal and/or annual patterns are often not evaluated. The frequency and risk factors of endoparasite infections from fecal samples of cats and dogs submitted to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital of the Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island-Canada were determined, using univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses. Investigated predictors of endoparasitism available in the 2000-2017 database included sex, age, geographic origin and seasonality. A total of 15,016 dogs and 2,391 cats were evaluated for endoparasite status using specific diagnostic tests: direct smear, Baermann, and/or 33 % zinc sulfate solution in a standardized centrifugal flotation method. Overall, twelve and eight parasite genera were detected in dogs and cats, respectively. The overall proportional infection was 14.6 %, and the cat population showed a higher frequency of positivity to parasites compared to the dog population (P < 0.001). The most frequent genera recovered in the whole population (dogs and cats), were Giardia duodenalis (5.2 %), Cystoisospora spp. (3.3 %) and Toxocara spp. (3.2 %). Endoparasitism levels were diagnosed more in feces submitted from young, female intact dogs from PEI compared to the baselines of mature, sterilized male dogs from other provinces, respectively, and diagnoses occurred more often in autumn months than in winter months. There was no significant diagnostic trend across the years for the individual parasites models. The frequency of detected potentially zoonotic parasites in this study highlights the veterinary public health and One Health context of parasitic infections in pets. Although the presented results are not from a random sample and therefore frequency results should be interpreted with caution, the model relationship results may still be relevant. In addition, results are of value to estimate parasite impact and to assist researchers, veterinarians and pet-owners with suitable information to control parasites.

Retrospective survey of parasitism identified in feces of client-owned cats in North America from 2007 through 2018

Ownership of domestic cats in North America has been on the increase; however, there are only a few surveys conducted on the prevalence of parasitism in client-owned cats over years. Our study objective was to evaluate parasite prevalence through statistical analysis of fecal examination results for client-owned cats on samples submitted to the veterinary parasitology diagnostic laboratory of Oklahoma State University over a 12-year period. All results of centrifugal flotation, saline direct smear, sedimentation, and Baermann examinations on fecal samples submitted to the Boren Veterinary Medical Hospital and Oklahoma Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory of Oklahoma State University from 2007 through 2018 were included. The impacts of sex, age, and seasonality on the prevalence of infection were also analyzed. A total of 2586 client-owned cat cases were included for this study. Parasites, eggs, oocysts, larvae, or cysts were not detected in the majority of cases (75.5%; 1,953/2586). Approximately 18.8% (485/2586) of client-owned cats were infected by one parasite, and 5.7% (148/2586) of cats were infected by multiple parasites. The most common parasite stage observed was Cystoisospora oocysts (9.4%; 243/2586), followed by Toxocara cati eggs (7.8%; 202/2586), Giardia cysts (4.0%; 104/2586), Alaria eggs (3.5%; 91/2586), Ancylostoma eggs (1.2%; 32/2586), taeniid proglottids/eggs (1.2%; 30/2586), Dipylidium caninum proglottids/egg packets (1.1 %; 29/2586), and Eucoleus aerophilus eggs (0.7%; 18/2586). Less commonly, Physalopetra eggs (0.19%; 5/2586), Toxascaris leonina eggs (0.19%; 5/2586), Tritrichomonas blagburni trophozoites (0.15%; 4/2586), Ollulanus tricuspis larvae/adults (0.12%; 3/2586), Platynosomum fastosum eggs (0.12%; 3/2586), Aelurostrongylus abstrusus larvae (0.08%; 2/2323), Sarcocystis sporocysts (0.08%; 2/2586), Spirometra eggs (0.08%; 2/2586), Mesocestoides proglottids/eggs (0.08%; 2/2586), Trichuris felis eggs (0.08%; 2/2586), Cryptosporidium oocysts (0.04%; 1/2586), and Toxoplasma-like small coccidian oocysts (0.04%; 1/2586) were detected. Additionally, fecal examinations revealed some ectoparasites: Demodex mites (0.9%; 24/2586), Cheyletiella mites (0.15%; 4/2586), and Otodectes cynotis mites (0.04%; 1/2586). There was no statistical significance between different sex groups (p = 0.3316). Age affected the prevalence of Cystoisospora, T. cati, Giardia, and Alaria infections with prevalence decreasing as age increased (p < 0.0001). Statistical analyses also revealed significant differences by months; the higher prevalence of infection occurred from summer through fall (p = 0.0004). Overall, as the number of submittals increased, the prevalence of infection increased over the last 12 years (p < 0.0001). This study supports continuing the current practice of routine broad-spectrum anthelmintic and ectoparasitic treatments for client-owned cats as well as annual/biannual fecal examination.

2019 AAHA Canine Life Stage Guidelines*

The guidelines are an update and extension of the AAHA Canine Life Stage Guidelines published in 2012. A noteworthy change from the earlier guidelines is the division of the dog’s lifespan into five stages (puppy, young adult, mature adult, senior, and end of life) instead of the previous six. This simplified grouping is consistent with how pet owners generally perceive their dog’s maturation and aging process and provides a readily understood basis for an evolving, lifelong healthcare strategy. The guidelines provide the following recommendations for managing 10 health-related factors at each of the first four canine life stages: lifestyle effect on the patient’s safety, zoonotic and human safety risk, behavior, nutrition, parasite control, vaccination, dental health, reproduction, breed-specific conditions, and a baseline diagnostic profile.

A multiplex PCR assay for the simultaneous detection of Taenia hydatigena, T. multiceps, T. pisiformis, and Dipylidium caninum infections

Background

Taenia hydatigena, T. multiceps, T. pisiformis, and Dipylidium caninum are four common large and medium-sized tapeworms parasitizing the small intestine of dogs and other canids. These parasites cause serious impact on the health and development of livestock. However, there are, so far, no commercially available molecular diagnostic kits capable of simultaneously detecting all four parasites in dogs. The aim of the study was therefore to develop a multiplex PCR assay that will accurately detect all four cestode infections in one reaction.

Methods

Specific primers for a multiplex PCR were designed based on corresponding mitochondrial genome sequences, and its detection limit was assessed by serial dilutions of the genomic DNAs of tapeworms examined. Furthermore, field samples of dog feces were tested using the developed assay.

Results

A multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay was developed based on mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) that accurately and simultaneously identify four cestode species in one reaction using specific fragment sizes of 592, 385, 283, and 190 bp for T. hydatigena, T. multiceps, T. pisiformis, and D. caninum, respectively. The lowest DNA concentration detected was 1 ng for T. hydatigena, T. multiceps and T. pisiformis, and 0.1 ng for D. caninum in a 25 μl reaction system. This assay offers high potential for the rapid detection of these four tapeworms in host feces simultaneously.

Conclusions

This study provides an efficient tool for the simultaneous detection of T. hydatigena, T. multiceps, T. pisiformis, and D. caninum. The assay will be potentially useful in epidemiological studies, diagnosis, and treatment of these four cestodes infections during prevention and control program.

Prevalence and genetic characterization of Giardia spp. and Cryptosporidium spp. in dogs in Iqaluit, Nunavut, Canada

There are few epidemiologic studies on the role of dogs in zoonotic parasitic transmission in the Circumpolar North. The objectives of this study were to: (a) estimate the faecal prevalence of Giardia spp. and Cryptosporidium spp. in dogs; (b) investigate potential associations between the type of dog population and the faecal presence of Giardia spp. and Cryptosporidium spp.; and (c) describe the molecular characteristics of Giardia spp. and Cryptosporidium spp. in dogs in Iqaluit, Nunavut. We conducted two cross-sectional studies in July and September 2016. In July, the team collected daily faecal samples for 3 days from each of 20 sled dogs. In September, the team collected three faecal samples from each of 59 sled dogs, 111 samples from shelter dogs and 104 from community dogs. We analysed faecal samples for the presence of Giardia spp. and Cryptosporidium spp. using rapid immunoassay and flotation techniques. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing of target genes were performed on positive faecal samples. Overall, the faecal prevalence of at least one of the target parasites, when one faecal sample was chosen at random for all dogs, was 8.16% (CI: 5.52-11.92), and for Giardia spp. and Cryptosporidium spp., prevalence was 4.42% (CI: 2.58-7.49) and 6.12% (CI: 3.88-9.53), respectively. The odds of faecal Giardia spp. in sled dogs were significantly higher than those in shelter and community dogs (OR 10.19 [CI: 1.16-89.35]). Sequence analysis revealed that 6 faecal samples were Giardia intestinalis, zoonotic assemblage B (n = 2) and species-specific assemblages D (n = 3) and E (n = 1), and five faecal samples were Cryptosporidium canis. Giardia intestinalis is zoonotic; however, Cryptosporidium canis is rare in humans and, when present, usually occurs in immunosuppressed individuals. Dogs may be a potential source of zoonotic Giardia intestinalis assemblage B infections in residents in Iqaluit, Nunavut, Canada; however, the direction of transmission is unclear.

The detection of gastrointestinal parasites in owned and shelter dogs in Cebu, Philippines

BACKGROUND

Gastrointestinal tract (GIT) parasites affect the health of dogs and may also be zoonotic. The prevalence of these parasites has been well studied in several countries, but reports in the Philippines have been limited.

AIM

This study generally aimed to detect the presence of common GIT parasites in owned and shelter dogs in Cebu, Philippines.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 200 fecal samples (130 from owned dogs and 70 from shelter dogs) were collected. Profiles of owned dogs and their owners were obtained. Fecalysis was performed using three methods: Direct smear, sedimentation, and flotation techniques.

RESULTS

Majority of the sampled dogs were 5 years old and below that (79.2%), male (64.6%) and of pure breed (53.1%). Among the most common parasites detected were Ancylostoma, Trichuris and Toxocara spp. Statistical analyses revealed a significant association between the presence of parasites and the body score of the dogs (p=0.000), the deworming status (p=0.000), and the rearing practice (contact with other dogs, p=0.000, where it spends its time (p=0.000), plays in the grass (p=0.050), where it defecates (p=0.014), contact with other animals (p=0.000).

CONCLUSION

GIT parasites were detected in owned and shelter dogs in Cebu, Philippines. The results of this study can serve as baseline information about the canine parasitic fauna in the Philippines.

Pre-ozonation of source water: Assessment of efficacy against Giardia duodenalis cysts and effects on natural organic matter

The protozoan Giardia duodenalis is one of the parasites of primary concern in drinking water treatment plants, due to its resistance to chlorination. Another matter of concern regarding chlorination of drinking water is the formation of disinfection by-products in the presence of precursors such as natural organic matter (NOM). In this study, the effects of ozonation (5 mg L^-1) on G. duodenalis cysts in raw surface water from a drinking water treatment plant were evaluated, and the presence and alteration of NOM were assessed, as an indicative of the potential to prevent total organic halogen (TOX) formation during post-chlorination. Following ozone treatment, the presence of damaged cysts was observed by direct immunofluorescence assay (IFA) and confirmed by the molecular approach propidium monoazide-polymerase chain reaction (PMA-PCR). Using an animal model, analysis of the intestinal tissues revealed that 80% of the animals inoculated with ozonated water were positive for trophozoites. This study shows that analysis of intestinal fragments is imperative to accurately assess animal infection following inoculation of treated cysts. More importantly, considering the low infective dose of Giardia cysts in susceptible hosts, an ozone dosage usually applied in drinking water treatment plants did not completely inactivate G. duodenalis cysts in surface water. Nonetheless, the results suggest that competitive reactions with NOM have occurred, and the applied ozone dosage has proven useful to remove NOM reactivity, and thus prevent halogenated DBP formation during post-chlorination.

A review of Cystoisospora felis and C. rivolta-induced coccidiosis in cats

Until the discovery of Toxoplasma gondii oocysts in cat feces in 1970, little was known of coccidiosis in cats. Until 1970, three coccidian parasites based on different sized oocysts were recognized, the parasite with large oocysts (∼40 μm long and called Isospora felis), medium sized oocysts (∼25 μm long, called Isospora rivolta), and small sized oocysts (14 μm or less, called Isospora bigemina) were known and they were considered not host-specific. Later, it was demonstrated that these parasites were host-specific and had also extra-intestinal stages. The Isospora bigemina turned out to be more than 25 organisms belonging to T. gondii, Hammondia spp., Sarcocystis spp., Besnoitia spp., and Neospora spp.; these subjects have been reviewed previously in detail. The present paper summarizes biology of Isospora felis, and I. rivolta (now transferred to genus Cystoisospora), including taxonomy, life cycle, diagnosis, and treatment. Re-excretion of T. gondii oocysts from chronically infected cats after superinfection with Cystoisospora felis oocysts is discussed. There are only two species of Cystoisospora species in cats, C. felis and C. rivolta; Isospora novocati and Cystoisospora frenkeli named for I. rivolta-like parasites of cats are considered synonym of C. rivolta. Clinical coccidiosis occurs more commonly in recently weaned kittens and C. felis infections are more prevalent than C. rivolta.

Fecal survey of parasites in free-roaming cats in northcentral Oklahoma, United States

Cats can be infected by various intestinal parasites, some that are zoonotic. Although surveys of parasite prevalence in owned and shelter cats have been published, none addressed free-roaming, wild-trapped, domestic cat (Felis catus) populations. An opportunity to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites in wild-trapped, free-roaming cats in northcentral Oklahoma, United States occurred through a trap-neuter-return (TNR) program conducted at Oklahoma State University, Boren Veterinary Medical Hospital, between February 2015 and April 2016. Approximately 1 g to 5 g of feces was collected from 846 free-roaming cats either from cage traps, when available, or rectally using disposable fecal loops and examined by centrifugal fecal flotation tests with 33% zinc sulfate solution. Parasite infections were confirmed by microscopic detection of eggs, cysts, or oocysts and visual detection of proglottids. Approximately 63.9% (541/846) of free-roaming cats were infected by at least one parasite, and 24.9% (211/846) of cats were infected by multiple parasites. The most common intestinal parasite infections detected were: Toxocara cati (44.6%; 377/846), followed by Alaria (13.4%; 113/846), Ancylostoma (11.2%; 95/846), Cystoisospora (9.7%; 82/846), taeniids (7.7%; 65/846), Dipylidium caninum (4.5%; 38/846), Physaloptera (2.2%; 19/846), Eucoleus aerophilus (1.4%; 12/846), Giardia (1.2%; 10/846), and a small (10-12 μm in diameter) Toxoplasma-like oocyst (0.1%; 1/846). A few ectoparasites, Demodex gatoi (0.5%; 4/846) and Cheyletiella (0.1%; 1/846), were also detected by fecal flotation. Our findings indicate that a higher prevalence of parasite infections occurs in free-roaming cats in Oklahoma than in owned cats, and these free-roaming cats contribute to contamination of the environment with several zoonotic parasites. Regional data on the prevalence of parasites in free-roaming cats can aid in the justification for parasite control programs in owned cats since both can share the same environment and supports the current practice of routine broad-spectrum anthelmintic and ectoparasite treatments for owned cats.

Gastrointestinal Parasites in Shelter Dogs: Occurrence, Pathology, Treatment and Risk to Shelter Workers

Dogs entering shelters can carry gastrointestinal parasites that may pose serious risks to other animals, shelter staff and visitors. Shelters provide an environment that could facilitate the spread of parasitic infections between animals. Nematodes and protozoa that transmit through ingestion or skin penetration are major enteric parasites of concern in shelter settings. Ancylostoma spp., Uncinaria stenocephala, Toxocara canis, Toxascaris leonina, Trichuris vulpis and Dipylidium caninum are the major helminths while Giardia, Cryptosporidium, Isospora spp. and Sarcocystis spp. are the most prevalent protozoan parasites in shelter dogs. The prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in shelter dogs is typically higher than in owned dogs. A range of cost-effective drugs is available for prevention and control of helminths in shelters, notably fenbendazole, pyrantel, oxantel, and praziquantel. Parasiticide options for protozoan parasites are often cost-prohibitive or limited by a lack of veterinary registration for use in dogs. Environmental control measures reliant upon hygiene and facility management are therefore a mainstay for control and prevention of protozoan parasites in shelters. This philosophy should also extend to helminth control, as integrated parasite control strategies can allow anthelmintics to be used more sparingly and judiciously. The purpose of this article is to comprehensively review the current knowledge on the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites most commonly found in dogs in shelters, canvass recommended treatment programs in shelter dogs, and to explore the likelihood that parasiticide resistance might emerge in a shelter environment.

Feline gastrointestinal parasitism in Greece: emergent zoonotic species and associated risk factors

BACKGROUND

Feline gastrointestinal parasitism constitutes an issue of concern for veterinarians since parasites are widespread and affect animals' health and welfare. Furthermore, some of these pathogens have zoonotic potential. To provide detailed data on the current epizootiology of feline endoparasitism, a multicentric survey was conducted during 2016.

METHODS

Faeces from 1150 cats were collected from all regions of Greece and examined by sedimentation and flotation techniques. Possible risk factors including gender, age, ownership status, living conditions and co-infections with other parasites were assessed using binary regression models for each one of the most prevalent parasites.

RESULTS

The overall gastrointestinal parasite prevalence in cats was 50.7%. The study population consisted of cats of both sexes, different age groups, ownership status and living conditions. A total of 10 gastrointestinal parasitic species were detected and up to 5 different parasites were isolated in the same faecal sample. The most frequently identified parasites were Toxocara cati (n = 278; 24.2%), followed by Cystoisospora spp. (n = 189; 16.4%), Ancylostomatidae (n = 186; 16.2%), Aelurostrongylus abstrusus (n = 40; 3.5%), Giardia spp. (n = 26; 2.3%), Joyeuxiella pasqualei (n = 14; 1.2%), Capillaria aerophila (n = 8; 0.7%), Dipylidium caninum (n = 3; 0.2%), Toxascaris leonina (n = 2; 0.1%) and Troglostrongylus brevior (n = 2; 0.1%). The occurrence of co-infections was 11.6%. Concerning risk factors, the likelihood of T. cati infection was higher for female cats living outdoors and for cats being infected with Cystoisospora spp. In the same frame, young, stray, male and free of A. abstrusus cats were more likely to be infected with Cystoisospora spp. Correspondingly, stray, infected with Giardia spp. but free of Cystoisospora spp. cats were more likely to be infected with Ancylostomatidae. Regarding A. abstrusus infection, a higher probability was reported for cats living outdoors and for cats free of Cystoisospora spp., while Giardia spp. infections were more common in young and co-infected with Ancylostomatidae animals.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of parasitized cats in Greece was high and thus consideration should be paid to control the risk factors, to implement targeted preventive antiparasitic treatments and educate cat owners on the value of prevention for the health and welfare of their cats.

Epidemiology of canine gastrointestinal helminths in sub-Saharan Africa

BACKGROUND

Dogs have a close association with humans providing companionship, security and a source of dietary protein. However, dogs are also potential carriers of zoonotic pathogens. Dogs, therefore, pose a public health risk and a good understanding of canine diseases is important for planning and implementing control measures. The aim of this study was to characterise canine helminthiasis in sub-Saharan Africa using a systematic approach.

METHODS

Pubmed and Google Scholar were searched for relevant primary studies published from 2000. Forty-one eligible studies were included in the meta-analysis. Pooled prevalences were estimated using the quality effects model.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

Twenty-six genera of enteric helminths were reported and the pooled estimate of canine helminthiasis was 71% (95% CI: 63-79%). Species of Ancylostoma and Toxocara, causative agents of larva migrans in humans, were the most frequently reported helminths with pooled estimated prevalences of 41% (95% CI: 32-50%) and 22% (95% CI: 16-29%), respectively. Dipylidium caninum and Taenia spp. were the most frequently reported cestodes with pooled estimated prevalences of 20% (95% CI: 12-29%) and 9% (95% CI: 5-15%), respectively. Trematodes were rarely reported. There was a high level of heterogeneity in most pooled estimates (I² ˃ 80%). The results of this study show that canine helminthiasis is highly prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa and there is need for regular deworming programmes to improve the health status of the dogs and minimise the potential health risk to humans.