1
|
Bonilla-Aldana JL, Espinosa-Nuñez AC, Bonilla-Aldana DK, Rodriguez-Morales AJ. Toxocara cati Infection in Cats ( Felis catus): A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1022. [PMID: 38612261 PMCID: PMC11011152 DOI: 10.3390/ani14071022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
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.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Luis Bonilla-Aldana
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Zootehcnics, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Universidad de la Amazonia, Florencia 111321, Caquetá, Colombia; (J.L.B.-A.); (A.C.E.-N.)
| | - Alba Cristina Espinosa-Nuñez
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Zootehcnics, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Universidad de la Amazonia, Florencia 111321, Caquetá, Colombia; (J.L.B.-A.); (A.C.E.-N.)
| | | | - Alfonso J. Rodriguez-Morales
- Masters of Climate Change and Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics Program, Universidad Cientifica del Sur, Lima 15307, Peru;
- Gilbert and Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Beirut P.O. Box 36-5053, Lebanon
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Nielsen SS, Thuesen IS, Mejer H, Agerholm JS, Nielsen ST, Jokelainen P, Thamsborg SM, Sandøe P. Assessing welfare risks in unowned unsocialised domestic cats in Denmark based on associations with low body condition score. Acta Vet Scand 2023; 65:1. [PMID: 36691036 PMCID: PMC9869495 DOI: 10.1186/s13028-023-00665-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Populations of unowned unsocialised cats are present worldwide. Generally, there is concern about their welfare. Low body condition score (BCS) is a potentially relevant indicator that is relatively easy to assess: emaciated cats are likely to have welfare problems while thin cats may be at risk of becoming emaciated. The objective of this study was to assess the association of low BSC with a selection of factors relating to the host, disease, and infection in unowned unsocialised domestic cats. We necropsied 598 euthanised unowned unsocialised cats from Denmark. We recorded each cat's age-group, sex, and neuter status, together with its pregnancy status, the season and location of trapping, as well as gross lesions at necropsy. We also tested for feline immunodeficiency virus and feline leukaemia virus, recorded presence of ectoparasites, and a subsample of the cats were also tested for endoparasites. Cats with no or sparse adipose deposits were categorised as having low BCS, and logistic regression was used to determine the factors associated with low BCS. RESULTS Of the cats, 11.4% had low BCS. Season, age-group and sex were associated with low BCS and confounded potential associations with other variables. Intact adult males and females in spring and early summer were at highest risk of low BCS. When these factors were taken into account, cats with biting lice had 2.8 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.4-5.4) times higher odds of low BCS, and cats with gastro-intestinal findings (i.e., enlarged mesenteric lymph nodes, abdominal hernia, diarrhoea, obstructive foreign bodies, or diaphragmatic hernia) had 50 (95% CI 10-417) times higher odds of low BCS, than cats with no such findings. Cats with low BCS were primarily adult intact cats with tooth lesions and skin lesions, ear mite infection, and positive test result for feline immunodeficiency virus. CONCLUSIONS The results highlight associations that can be used to define a risk profile: low BCS, notably in summer-autumn, in an unowned unsocialised cat was associated with underlying, less visible problems. Thus, low BCS can be more than a step towards being emaciated; it can also be an indicator of other underlying welfare problems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Søren Saxmose Nielsen
- grid.5254.60000 0001 0674 042XDepartment of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 8, 1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Ida Sofie Thuesen
- grid.5254.60000 0001 0674 042XDepartment of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 8, 1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Helena Mejer
- grid.5254.60000 0001 0674 042XDepartment of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 8, 1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Jørgen Steen Agerholm
- grid.5254.60000 0001 0674 042XDepartment of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Højbakkegårds Allé 5A, 2630 Taastrup, Denmark
| | - Stine Thorsø Nielsen
- grid.5254.60000 0001 0674 042XDepartment of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 8, 1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Pikka Jokelainen
- grid.6203.70000 0004 0417 4147Infectious Disease Preparedness, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, 2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark
| | - Stig Milan Thamsborg
- grid.5254.60000 0001 0674 042XDepartment of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 8, 1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Peter Sandøe
- grid.5254.60000 0001 0674 042XDepartment of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 8, 1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark ,grid.5254.60000 0001 0674 042XDepartment of Food and Resource Economics, University of Copenhagen, Rolighedsvej 23, 1958 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Rousseau J, Castro A, Novo T, Maia C. Dipylidium caninum in the twenty-first century: epidemiological studies and reported cases in companion animals and humans. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:131. [PMID: 35534908 PMCID: PMC9088078 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05243-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Dipilidiosis is a parasitic disease caused by the tapeworm Dipylidium caninum. Fleas and, less frequently, lice act as an intermediate host, and their ingestion is required for infection to occur. While the disease mainly affects domestic and wild carnivores, it is also considered a zoonotic disease, with most human cases reported in children. Dipylidium caninum is considered to be the most common tapeworm infesting companion animals, but dipilidosis in humans is rare. The aims of this review were to improve current understanding of the epidemiology of this parasitosis and its management by the medical and veterinary community. Methods A comprehensive review of the published literature during the last 21 years (2000–2021) on the epidemiology, clinical features, diagnosis, treatment and prevention measures of D. caninum infection and dipilidiosis in companion animals and humans was conducted. Results Using predefined eligibility criteria for a search of the published literature, we retrieved and screened 280 publications. Of these, 161 (141 epidemiological studies, 20 case reports [16 human cases]) were considered for inclusion in this review. This parasitosis is present worldwide; however, despite being the most frequent cestode infection in animals, it is often underdiagnosed using common coprological techniques. Its diagnosis in humans has also proved challenging, being frequently confused with pinworm infection, leading to inappropriate treatment and to the persistence of the disease over time. Prevention measures include control of ectoparasites in animals and the environment, as well as regular deworming of animals, most commonly with praziquantel. Conclusions The diagnosis of dipilidiosis remains challenging in both animals and humans, primarily due to the low sensitivity of the diagnostic methods currently available and a lack of knowledge of the morphological characteristics of the parasite. Although treatment with the appropriate anti-cestode compounds is well tolerated and results in resolution of the infection, indiscriminate use of these compounds may predispose to an increase in resistance. Given the worldwide distribution of this parasite, it is essential to act on several fronts, with a focus on health education for children and animal owners and the control of intermediate hosts, both in animals and in the surrounding environment. Graphical Abstract ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13071-022-05243-5.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julieta Rousseau
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (NOVA), Rua da Junqueira 100, 1349-008, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Andry Castro
- Centre of Geographical Studies and Associated Laboratory (TERRA), Institute of Geography and Spatial Planning, Universidade de Lisboa, Edif. IGOT, Rua Branca Edmée Marques, 1600-276, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Teresa Novo
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (NOVA), Rua da Junqueira 100, 1349-008, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Carla Maia
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (NOVA), Rua da Junqueira 100, 1349-008, Lisbon, Portugal.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Thuesen IS, Agerholm JS, Mejer H, Nielsen SS, Sandøe P. How Serious Are Health-Related Welfare Problems in Unowned Unsocialised Domestic Cats? A Study from Denmark Based on 598 Necropsies. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12050662. [PMID: 35268230 PMCID: PMC8909710 DOI: 10.3390/ani12050662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Free ranging unsocialised domestic cats are widely believed to suffer from a high load of welfare problems. We assessed the validity of this belief by performing necropsies on the corpses of 598 unsocialised cats, originating from all parts of Denmark, that had been euthanised by two Danish cat welfare organisations. We selected a number of variables for health-related cat welfare that could be assessed through necropsy (e.g., gross lesions, ectoparasites and body condition) or by laboratory analysis (e.g., infection with feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), and by feline leukaemia virus (FeLV)). Each finding was classified as having either a major or minor welfare impact on the cat. More than 83% of the cats had no major finding, and 54% had no finding indicating a welfare issue at all. More than 83% of the cats had a body condition within normal range. Only 0.3% were emaciated. The most common finding was infestation with ectoparasites, with 15.9% infected with lice, 12.3% with fleas, 4.7% with ticks, and 6.7% with ear mites. FIV and FeLV were detected in 9.2% and 1.2% of the cases, respectively. The most common lesion related to the cats’ teeth. Overall, unsocialised cats in Denmark have a moderate level of health-related welfare problems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ida Sofie Thuesen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark; (I.S.T.); (H.M.); (S.S.N.)
| | - Jørgen Steen Agerholm
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-2630 Tåstrup, Denmark;
| | - Helena Mejer
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark; (I.S.T.); (H.M.); (S.S.N.)
| | - Søren Saxmose Nielsen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark; (I.S.T.); (H.M.); (S.S.N.)
| | - Peter Sandøe
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark; (I.S.T.); (H.M.); (S.S.N.)
- Department of Food and Resource Economics, University of Copenhagen, DK-1958 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +45-21497292
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Debrot AO, Ruijter MNM, Endarwin W, Hooft P, Wulf K, Delnevo AJ. A renewed call for conservation leadership 10 years further in the feral cat
Trap‐Neuter‐Return
debate and new opportunities for constructive dialogue. CONSERVATION SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/csp2.12641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Adolphe O. Debrot
- Marine Animal Ecology Group Wageningen University and Research Wageningen The Netherlands
- Wageningen Marine Research Wageningen University and Research Den Helder The Netherlands
| | - Martin N. M. Ruijter
- Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Group Wageningen University and Research Wageningen The Netherlands
| | - Wempy Endarwin
- Department of Forestry Ministry of Environment and Forestry, Indonesia Jakarta Indonesia
| | - Pim Hooft
- Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Group Wageningen University and Research Wageningen The Netherlands
| | - Kai Wulf
- Saba Conservation Foundation The Bottom Saba The Netherlands
| | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Knaus M, Baker C, Alva R, Mitchell E, Irwin J, Shukullari E, Veliu A, Ibarra-Velarde F, Liebenberg J, Reinemeyer C, Tielemans E, Wakeland K, Johnson C. Efficacy of a novel topical combination of esafoxolaner, eprinomectin and praziquantel in cats against Toxocara cati and Dipylidium caninum. Parasite 2021; 28:28. [PMID: 33812460 PMCID: PMC8019557 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2021024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
NexGard® Combo, a novel topical antiparasitic product for cats, combines the insecticide/acaricide esafoxolaner with the nematocide eprinomectin and cestodicide praziquantel. The efficacy of this combination product was evaluated against two common endoparasites of global occurrence in cats, the nematode Toxocara cati and the cestode Dipylidium caninum, in five controlled studies using naturally or experimentally infected cats with parasites of North American, South African or European origin. Cats evaluated in these studies harbored patent infection of the target parasite confirmed through a pre-treatment fecal examination. In each study, cats were allocated randomly to two groups of equal size (8 or 10 cats per group per study), one group treated with a placebo (mineral oil) and the other with NexGard® Combo. Both treatments were administered once as a spot-on at 0.12 mL per kg body weight to deliver the minimum label dosage (1.44 mg/kg esafoxolaner, 0.48 mg/kg eprinomectin, and 10.0 mg/kg praziquantel) to the NexGard® Combo-treated cats. To determine efficacy, geometric mean parasite counts seven to 12 days after treatment of placebo-treated (control) cats and NexGard® Combo-treated cats were compared. The efficacy of NexGard® Combo was 98.8% and 100% against adult T. cati in two studies; and 98.0%, 98.3% and 93.2% against D. caninum in three studies. No adverse events related to treatment were observed throughout the studies. These studies demonstrate high efficacy against these major feline endoparasites and excellent acceptability of the novel topical antiparasitic combination of esafoxolaner, eprinomectin and praziquantel.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martin Knaus
- Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica GmbH, Kathrinenhof Research Center Walchenseestr. 8–12 83101 Rohrdorf Germany
| | - Christine Baker
- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health 1730 Olympic Drive Athens GA 30601 USA
| | - Roberto Alva
- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health 1730 Olympic Drive Athens GA 30601 USA
| | - Elizabeth Mitchell
- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health 1730 Olympic Drive Athens GA 30601 USA
| | - Jennifer Irwin
- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health 1730 Olympic Drive Athens GA 30601 USA
| | - Enstela Shukullari
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Agricultural University of Tirana Rruga Paisi Vodica 1025 Tirana Albania
| | - Abdullah Veliu
- Center for Animal Services, Fond. Prosp. Integr. Rr. Mine Peza, Pall. 3, Shk. 1/4 1000 Tirana Albania
| | | | - Julian Liebenberg
- Clinvet International (Pty) Ltd. P.O. Box 11186, Universitas Bloemfontein 9321 Republic of South Africa
| | - Craig Reinemeyer
- East Tennessee Clinical Research 80 Copper Ridge Farm Rd Rockwood TN 37854 USA
| | - Eric Tielemans
- Boehringer-Ingelheim Animal Health 29 Avenue Tony Garnier 69007 Lyon France
| | - Kenneth Wakeland
- Boehringer-Ingelheim Animal Health 3239 Satellite Blvd Duluth GA 30096 USA
| | - Chris Johnson
- Boehringer-Ingelheim Animal Health 3239 Satellite Blvd Duluth GA 30096 USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ketzis JK, Lucio-Forster A. Toxocara canis and Toxocara cati in domestic dogs and cats in the United States, Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean: A review. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2020; 109:655-714. [PMID: 32381223 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2020.01.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Toxocara prevalence ranges from 0 to >87% and 0 to >60% in dogs and cats, respectively, within the United States, Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean. Higher prevalence occurs in animals less than 1 year of age. Overall, prevalence is higher in cats compared to dogs. The lowest prevalence occurs in the US owned dog population. Specific populations in this industrialized nation, in animal shelters or resource-limited locations, have prevalences similar to those seen in populations from other regions reviewed here. Conversely, subpopulations in Central America and the Caribbean have very low prevalence. Apparent contributors to prevalence, excluding animal age and climate, are socio-economic factors, attitudes towards pet management and animal population density. The lack of data from some regions pose a challenge in assessing trends; however, with the exception of the US owned dog population, there is no strong indication of any decrease in prevalence from historical levels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer K Ketzis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis, West Indies.
| | - Araceli Lucio-Forster
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY, United States
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
A Case of Letting the Cat out of The Bag-Why Trap-Neuter-Return Is Not an Ethical Solution for Stray Cat ( Felis catus) Management. Animals (Basel) 2019; 9:ani9040171. [PMID: 30995809 PMCID: PMC6523511 DOI: 10.3390/ani9040171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2019] [Revised: 04/01/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs, in which stray cats are captured, neutered and returned to the environment are advocated as a humane, ethical alternative to euthanasia. We review the TNR literature in light of current debate over whether or not there should be further TNR trials in Australia. We revisit the problems arising from stray cats living in association with human habitation and estimate how many stray cats would have to be processed through a scientifically-guided TNR program to avoid high euthanasia rates. We also identify 10 ethical and welfare challenges that have to be addressed: we consider the quality of life for stray cats, where they would live, whether the TNR process itself is stressful, whether TNR cats are vulnerable to injury, parasites and disease, can be medically treated, stray cats' body condition and diet, and their impacts on people, pet cats, and urban wildlife, especially endemic fauna. We conclude that TNR is unsuitable for Australia in almost all situations because it is unlikely to resolve problems caused by stray cats or meet ethical and welfare challenges. Targeted adoption, early-age desexing, community education initiatives and responsible pet ownership have greater promise to minimize euthanasia, reduce numbers rapidly, and address the identified issues.
Collapse
|
9
|
EZATPOUR B, TAHERIAN SMR, BAJALAN S, KAYEDI MH, MAHMOUDVAND H, ANBARI K. The Prevalence of Endoparasites in Stray Cats in Western Iran. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 48:779-781. [PMID: 31110994 PMCID: PMC6500544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Behrouz EZATPOUR
- Razi Herbal Medicines Research Center, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Seyed Mahmoud Reza TAHERIAN
- Department of Public Health, School of Health, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran,Corresponding Author:
| | - Saeid BAJALAN
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hassan KAYEDI
- Razi Herbal Medicines Research Center, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Hossein MAHMOUDVAND
- Razi Herbal Medicines Research Center, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Khatereh ANBARI
- Department of Social Medicine, Medical School, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Clark NJ, Seddon JM, Šlapeta J, Wells K. Parasite spread at the domestic animal - wildlife interface: anthropogenic habitat use, phylogeny and body mass drive risk of cat and dog flea (Ctenocephalides spp.) infestation in wild mammals. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:8. [PMID: 29307305 PMCID: PMC5757300 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-017-2564-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2017] [Accepted: 11/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spillover of parasites at the domestic animal - wildlife interface is a pervasive threat to animal health. Cat and dog fleas (Ctenocephalides felis and C. canis) are among the world's most invasive and economically important ectoparasites. Although both species are presumed to infest a diversity of host species across the globe, knowledge on their distributions in wildlife is poor. We built a global dataset of wild mammal host associations for cat and dog fleas, and used Bayesian hierarchical models to identify traits that predict wildlife infestation probability. We complemented this by calculating functional-phylogenetic host specificity to assess whether fleas are restricted to hosts with similar evolutionary histories, diet or habitat niches. RESULTS Over 130 wildlife species have been found to harbour cat fleas, representing nearly 20% of all mammal species sampled for fleas. Phylogenetic models indicate cat fleas are capable of infesting a broad diversity of wild mammal species through ecological fitting. Those that use anthropogenic habitats are at highest risk. Dog fleas, by contrast, have been recorded in 31 mammal species that are primarily restricted to certain phylogenetic clades, including canids, felids and murids. Both flea species are commonly reported infesting mammals that are feral (free-roaming cats and dogs) or introduced (red foxes, black rats and brown rats), suggesting the breakdown of barriers between wildlife and invasive reservoir species will increase spillover at the domestic animal - wildlife interface. CONCLUSIONS Our empirical evidence shows that cat fleas are incredibly host-generalist, likely exhibiting a host range that is among the broadest of all ectoparasites. Reducing wild species' contact rates with domestic animals across natural and anthropogenic habitats, together with mitigating impacts of invasive reservoir hosts, will be crucial for reducing invasive flea infestations in wild mammals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas J. Clark
- School of Veterinary Science, University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD 4343 Australia
| | - Jennifer M. Seddon
- School of Veterinary Science, University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD 4343 Australia
| | - Jan Šlapeta
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006 Australia
| | - Konstans Wells
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD 4111 Australia
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Rust MK. The Biology and Ecology of Cat Fleas and Advancements in Their Pest Management: A Review. INSECTS 2017; 8:E118. [PMID: 29077073 PMCID: PMC5746801 DOI: 10.3390/insects8040118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2017] [Revised: 10/18/2017] [Accepted: 10/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The cat flea Ctenocephalides felis felis (Bouché) is the most important ectoparasite of domestic cats and dogs worldwide. It has been two decades since the last comprehensive review concerning the biology and ecology of C. f. felis and its management. Since then there have been major advances in our understanding of the diseases associated with C. f. felis and their implications for humans and their pets. Two rickettsial diseases, flea-borne spotted fever and murine typhus, have been identified in domestic animal populations and cat fleas. Cat fleas are the primary vector of Bartonella henselae (cat scratch fever) with the spread of the bacteria when flea feces are scratched in to bites or wounds. Flea allergic dermatitis (FAD) common in dogs and cats has been successfully treated and tapeworm infestations prevented with a number of new products being used to control fleas. There has been a continuous development of new products with novel chemistries that have focused on increased convenience and the control of fleas and other arthropod ectoparasites. The possibility of feral animals serving as potential reservoirs for flea infestations has taken on additional importance because of the lack of effective environmental controls in recent years. Physiological insecticide resistance in C. f. felis continues to be of concern, especially because pyrethroid resistance now appears to be more widespread. In spite of their broad use since 1994, there is little evidence that resistance has developed to many of the on-animal or oral treatments such as fipronil, imidacloprid or lufenuron. Reports of the perceived lack of performance of some of the new on-animal therapies have been attributed to compliance issues and their misuse. Consequentially, there is a continuing need for consumer awareness of products registered for cats and dogs and their safety.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael K Rust
- Department of Entomology, University of California Riverside, Riverside, CA 92521, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Abstract
PURPOSE Toxocariasis is a widespread zoonosis, which may result in central nervous system injury. METHODS We conducted a systematic literature review in MEDLINE, SciELO, ScienceDirect and Google Scholar up to April 2015 using a combination of the following search terms: "neurotoxocariasis" or "neurotoxocarosis", "toxocariasis" or "toxocarosis" and "cerebral" or "neurologic". RESULTS One hundred cases of neurotoxocariasis were identified in literature. The majority of patients were male (58 %), with a median age of 42 years. The predominant clinical pictures were myelitis (60 %), encephalitis (47 %) and/or meningitis (29 %). Fever was inconstant (23 %). The suspected mode of transmission, mentioned in only 49 % of cases, was mainly contact with dogs and/or cats (67 %) and ingestion of contaminated food (31 %). Diagnostic imaging examinations found hypodense lesions in cerebral scanner sequences and hyperintense lesions in cerebral MRI T2-weighted sequences in 65 and 57 % of encephalitis cases respectively, and in 92 % of myelitis cases in medullary MRI T2-weighted sequences. The detection of antibodies against Toxocara spp. was almost constant in blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), 99 and 93 %, respectively. The two most commonly used drugs were corticosteroids (72 %) and/or albendazole (68 %) for a period of at least 3 weeks, which often needed to be repeated. Despite a low mortality rate (6 %), complete remission was observed in only 40 % of cases. CONCLUSIONS Neurotoxocariasis, a completely preventable zoonosis, could lead to severe sequelae failing prompt diagnosis. A compatible clinical picture, presence of risk factors, blood eosinophilia and high titers of antibodies against Toxocara spp. in CSF should alert physicians.
Collapse
|
13
|
Rust MK. Insecticide Resistance in Fleas. INSECTS 2016; 7:insects7010010. [PMID: 26999217 PMCID: PMC4808790 DOI: 10.3390/insects7010010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2016] [Revised: 03/07/2016] [Accepted: 03/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Fleas are the major ectoparasite of cats, dogs, and rodents worldwide and potential vectors of animal diseases. In the past two decades the majority of new control treatments have been either topically applied or orally administered to the host. Most reports concerning the development of insecticide resistance deal with the cat flea, Ctenocephalides felis felis. Historically, insecticide resistance has developed to many of the insecticides used to control fleas in the environment including carbamates, organophosphates, and pyrethroids. Product failures have been reported with some of the new topical treatments, but actual resistance has not yet been demonstrated. Failures have often been attributed to operational factors such as failure to adequately treat the pet and follow label directions. With the addition of so many new chemistries additional monitoring of flea populations is needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael K Rust
- Department of Entomology, University of California Riverside, Riverside, CA 92521, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Napoli E, Anile S, Arrabito C, Scornavacca D, Mazzamuto MV, Gaglio G, Otranto D, Giannetto S, Brianti E. Survey on parasitic infections in wildcat (Felis silvestris silvestris Schreber, 1777) by scat collection. Parasitol Res 2015; 115:255-61. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-015-4742-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2015] [Accepted: 09/04/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
|
15
|
Hajipour N, Imani Baran A, Yakhchali M, Banan Khojasteh SM, Sheikhzade Hesari F, Esmaeilnejad B, Arjmand J. A survey study on gastrointestinal parasites of stray cats in Azarshahr, (East Azerbaijan province, Iran). J Parasit Dis 2015; 40:1255-1260. [PMID: 27876926 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-015-0663-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2015] [Accepted: 02/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal parasites are among the most common parasitic infections found in stray cats, which might act potential helminthic parasites to domestic cats. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in stray cats in the city of Azarshahr, which is located in East Azerbaijan province, Iran. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 50 necropsied stray cats, trapped and collected from different geographic regions of Azarshahr. From a total 50 stray cats examined, 15 (30 %) were female and 35 (70 %) were male. Overall 47 cats (94 %) were identified as infected with at least one of the endoparasites. The prevalence of parasites found were: Taenia taeniaeformis (60 %), Dipylidium caninum (58 %), Taenia hydatigera (24 %), Mesocestoides lineatus (78 %), Ancylostoma tubaeforme (14 %), Toxascaris leonina (30 %), Toxocara cati (78 %), Physaloptera praeputialis (10 %), and Syphacia obvelata (10 %). Contamination rate for zoonotic parasites of cat was greater than expected in AzarShahr region. Therefore, appropriate control measures should be taken and preventive methods should be applied.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nasser Hajipour
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran
| | - Aabbas Imani Baran
- Department of Pathobiology, Parasitology Division, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Tabriz University, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Yakhchali
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran
| | | | | | - Bijan Esmaeilnejad
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran
| | - Jafar Arjmand
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran
| |
Collapse
|