Canine and Feline Parasitology: Analogies, Differences, and Relevance for Human Health.

Cats and dogs are treated as family members by most pet owners. Therefore, a high quality of veterinary care and preventive medicine is imperative for animal health and welfare and for the protection of humans from zoonotic pathogens. There is a general perception of cats being treated as "small dogs," especially in the field of clinical parasitology. As a result, several important differences between the two animal species are not taken into proper consideration and are often overlooked. Dogs and cats are profoundly different under evolutionary, biological, ethological, behavioral, and immunological standpoints. These differences impact clinical features, diagnosis, and control of canine and feline parasites and transmission risk for humans. This review outlines the most common parasitoses and vector-borne diseases of dogs and cats, with a focus on major convergences and divergences, and discusses parasites that have (i) evolved based on different preys for dogs and cats, (ii) adapted due to different immunological or behavioral animal profiles, and (iii) developed more similarities than differences in canine and feline infections and associated diseases. Differences, similarities, and peculiarities of canine and feline parasitology are herein reviewed in three macrosections: (i) carnivorism, vegetarianism, anatomy, genetics, and parasites, (ii) evolutionary adaptation of nematodes, including veterinary reconsideration and zoonotic importance, and (iii) behavior and immune system driving ectoparasites and transmitted diseases. Emphasis is given to provide further steps toward a more accurate evaluation of canine and feline parasitology in a changing world in terms of public health relevance and One Health approach.

Feline lungworms in Greece: copromicroscopic, molecular and serological study.

Aelurostrongylus abstrusus (Nematoda, Metastrongyloidea) causes verminous pneumonia in cats worldwide. This study evaluated the seroprevalence of A. abstrusus antibodies in 220 stray and free-roaming cats from insular (Mykonos, Crete, Skopelos) and continental (Thessaloniki, Attica) Greece. The results were compared with morphological and biomolecular identification of first-stage larvae (L1) in faeces. Positive cats were observed in all 5 areas: 13/97 (13.4%), 1/32 (3.1%), 7/26 (26.9%), 3/18 (16.7%) and 5/47 (10.6%) cats tested positive for A. abstrusus L1 by Baermann examination, and 33/97 (34.0%), 7/32 (21.9%), 6/26 (23.1%), 3/18 (16.7%) and 11/47 (23.4%) were seropositive, in Mykonos, Crete, Skopelos, Thessaloniki and Attica, respectively. Troglostrongylus brevior L1 were found in 12/97 (12.4%), 3/26 (11.5%) and 2/47 (4.3%) cats from Mykonos, Skopelos and Attica respectively. Six of the 220 cats (2.7%), i.e. 4/97 (4.1%) from Mykonos and 2/26 (7.7%) from Skopelos, shed L1 of both A. abstrusus and T. brevior. Sixty samples were ELISA-positive (27.3%, 95% CI: 21.5-33.7%), of which 21 (35%) tested copromicroscopically positive (19 monospecific infections and 2 mixed with Troglostrongylus brevior), and 5 were positive for T. brevior L1 only. Among seronegative cats (n = 140), L1 of A. abstrusus were additionally detected in 8 (5.7% out of 140) cats (i.e. 4 monospecific infections and 4 mixed with T. brevior), and in 6 (4.3% out of 140) cats, L1 of T. brevior as monospecific infection were detected. This study confirms the presence of lungworms in Greece and suggests that the number of cats infected with/exposed to metastrongylids is higher than detected by faecal examinations.

Unusual parasitoses in urban dogs: Urinary capillariosis and linguatulosis, cases report.

Parasitic diseases caused by uncommonly diagnosed parasites may pose a threat to companion animals' health in urban environments where they are least expected. The pentastomid Linguatula serrata (tongue worm) and the capillarid Pearsonema plica (syn. Capillaria plica) are parasites with an indirect life cycle, infecting both domestic and wild carnivores. The present report describes two cases: the first one of urinary capillariosis and the other of linguatulosis, in two dogs living in the urban environment of Athens, Greece. In the case of capillariosis, the dog never lived out of the city, so it was presumably infected in the urban environment. On the contrary, in the case of linguatulosis, the dog was adopted at a young age from a rural environment but remained asymptomatic for several months while living in the city. Both dogs had mild symptoms, compatible with these infections. Urinary capillariosis and linguatulosis are uncommon in owned, pet dogs, living in cities due to epizootiological characteristics, i.e. need for wildlife reservoir for P. plica and consumption of raw infected viscera for L. serrata. Different factors contribute to the fact that such infections may occur in scenarios where they are least expected. Recent studies show a progressive worldwide increase in the number of uncommon parasitoses in pet animals, that in some cases, such as linguatulosis, are of zoonotic relevance. Regular parasitological examinations and preventive antiparasitic schemes are necessary in order to treat and prevent infections in pet animals and safeguard the health of both animals and humans under the concept of One Health.

Efficacy of a combination of esafoxolaner, eprinomectin and praziquantel (NexGard® Combo) against Thelazia callipaeda in naturally infected cats.

This clinical study assessed the efficacy of a topical combination of esafoxolaner, eprinomectin and praziquantel (NexGard® Combo) in treating cats naturally infected with the eyeworm Thelazia callipaeda (Nematoda, Thelaziidae). On Study Day (SD) 0, sixteen client-owned cats with eyeworm infection were allocated to an untreated control group (G1, 8 cats) or to a NexGard® Combo treated group (G2, 8 cats) and subjected to ocular examination. Cats in G2 received the treatment as per label recommendations. On SD 7 and 14 (±1), cats were examined for the presence of eyeworms and clinical signs. On SD 14, eyeworms were collected and counted. On SD 7 and 14, all cats in G1 were still infected with eyeworms, while G2 cats were free from eyeworms on SD 7 and 14, demonstrating 100% efficacy (p < 0.0001). All collected eyeworms were morphologically and molecularly confirmed to be T. callipaeda. On SD 0, fifteen out of the sixteen cats (7 in G1 and 8 in G2) displayed inflammatory ocular signs. On SD 7, all eight untreated cats and seven treated cats displayed inflammatory ocular signs. On SD 14, five out of eight G2 treated cats had recovered, while the eight untreated cats still displayed inflammatory ocular signs. The treatment significantly reduced lacrimation and conjunctivitis (p = 0.0001). No adverse reactions occurred. This clinical study provides evidence that NexGard® Combo is highly safe and effective for the treatment of T. callipaeda infection in cats under field conditions.

Title: Efficacité d'une association d'esafoxolaner, d'éprinomectine et de praziquantel (NexGard® Combo) contre Thelazia callipaeda chez le chat naturellement infecté. Abstract: Cette étude clinique a évalué l'efficacité d'une association topique d'esafoxolaner, d'éprinomectine et de praziquantel (NexGard® Combo) dans le traitement des chats naturellement infectés par le ver oculaire Thelazia callipaeda (Nematoda, Thelaziidae). Au jour d'étude (JE) 0, seize chats appartenant à des clients et atteints d'une infection par le ver oculaire ont été attribués à un groupe témoin non traité (G1, 8 chats) ou à un groupe traité NexGard® Combo (G2, 8 chats) et soumis à un examen oculaire. Les chats du groupe G2 ont reçu le traitement conformément aux recommandations de l'étiquette. Aux JE 7 et 14 (±1), les chats ont été examinés pour détecter la présence de vers oculaires et de signes cliniques. Au JE 14, les vers oculaires ont été collectés et comptés. Aux JE 7 et 14, tous les chats du G1 étaient toujours infectés par des vers oculaires, tandis que les chats du G2 étaient exempts de vers oculaires aux JE 7 et 14, démontrant une efficacité de 100 % (p < 0,0001). Tous les vers oculaires collectés ont été confirmés morphologiquement et moléculairement comme étant T. callipaeda. Au JE 0, quinze chats sur seize (7 en G1 et 8 en G2) présentaient des signes oculaires inflammatoires. Au JE 7, les huit chats non traités et les sept chats traités présentaient des signes oculaires inflammatoires. Au JE 14, cinq des huit chats traités par G2 s'étaient rétablis tandis que les huit chats non traités présentaient toujours des signes oculaires inflammatoires. Le traitement a réduit de manière significative le larmoiement et la conjonctivite (p = 0,0001). Aucun effet indésirable n'est survenu. Cette étude clinique indique que NexGard® Combo est hautement sûr et efficace pour le traitement de l'infection à T. callipaeda chez les chats dans des conditions de terrain.

Efficacy of a topical formulation containing eprinomectin, esafoxolaner and praziquantel (NexGard® Combo) in the treatment of natural respiratory capillariosis of cats.

Feline pulmonary capillariosis is a significant disorder due to its distribution and clinical impact. This study evaluated the safety and efficacy of two administrations 28 days apart of a topical solution containing esafoxolaner, eprinomectin and praziquantel (NexGard® Combo) in treating Eucoleus aerophilus (syn. Capillaria aerophila) infection in naturally infected cats. Cats were allocated to two groups: G1 cats (n = 23) received two treatments at study days (SDs) 0 and 28 (±2) and were evaluated for 6 weeks, and G2 cats (n = 17) served as a negative control for 6 weeks and were then treated twice on SDs 42 (±2) and 70 (±2), allowing for an additional 6-week assessment of efficacy. Each cat was subjected to McMaster coproscopy at SDs -7/0, 28 (±2) and 42 (±2) for both groups, 70 (±2) and 84 (±2) only for G2. Clinical examination and chest radiographic images were performed at SDs 0, 28 (±2) and 42 (±2) for G1 and G2, 70 (±2) and 84 (±2) only for G2. The comparison of EPG (eggs per gram of feces), clinical (CS), and radiographic scores (RS) at each time-point was used as a criterion. The efficacy based on the EPG reduction was 99.5% (G1) and 100% (G2) after two administrations of NexGard® Combo 2 weeks apart. At SD 0, no significant differences for CS and RS were recorded between G1 and G2, while a significant reduction (p < 0.05) was observed post-treatment for CS, RS, oculo-nasal discharge, auscultation noises, and cough. Two doses of NexGard® Combo 28 days apart stopped egg shedding and significantly improved clinical alterations in cats infected by E. aerophilus.

Title: Efficacité d'une formulation topique contenant de l'éprinomectine, de l'esafoxolaner et du praziquantel (NexGard® Combo) dans le traitement de la capillariose respiratoire naturelle du chat. Abstract: La capillariose pulmonaire féline est un trouble important, de par sa répartition et son impact clinique. Cette étude a évalué l'innocuité et l'efficacité de deux administrations à 28 jours d'intervalle d'une solution topique contenant de l'esafoxolaner, de l'éprinomectine et du praziquantel (NexGard® Combo) dans le traitement de l'infection à Eucoleus aerophilus (syn. Capillaria aerophila) chez des chats naturellement infectés. Les chats ont été répartis en deux groupes : les chats G1 (n = 23) ont reçu deux traitements aux jours d'étude (JE) 0 et 28 (±2) et ont été évalués pendant 6 semaines et les chats G2 (n = 17) ont servi de contrôle négatif pendant 6 semaines, puis ont été traités deux fois aux JE 42 (±2) et 70 (±2), permettant une évaluation supplémentaire de l'efficacité sur 6 semaines. Chaque chat a été soumis à une coproscopie McMaster aux JE −7/0, 28 (±2) et 42 (±2) pour les deux groupes, 70 (±2) et 84 (±2) uniquement pour G2. L'examen clinique et les images radiographiques thoraciques ont été réalisés aux JE 0, 28 (±2) et 42 (±2) pour G1 et G2, 70 (±2) et 84 (±2) uniquement pour G2. La comparaison des nombres d'œufs par gramme de matières fécales (OPG), score clinique (SC) et score radiographique (SR) à chaque point ont été utilisées comme critères d'efficacité. L'efficacité basée sur la réduction de OPG était de 99,5 % (G1) et de 100 % (G2) après deux administrations de NexGard Combo à deux semaines d'intervalle. À JE 0, aucune différence significative pour SC et SR n'a été enregistrée entre G1 et G2, tandis qu'une réduction significative (p < 0,05) a été observée après le traitement pour SC, SR, écoulements oculo-nasaux, bruits d'auscultation et toux. Deux doses de NexGard® Combo à 28 jours d'intervalle arrêtent l'excrétion des œufs et améliorent considérablement les altérations cliniques chez les chats infectés par E. aerophilus.

Efficacy of a spot-on formulation containing 280 mg/ml fluralaner and 14 mg/ml moxidectin (Bravecto® Plus) in the prevention of cat aelurostrongylosis under field conditions.

Aelurostrongylus abstrusus is the most important respiratory nematode of domestic cats. Effective control options are crucial to protect health and welfare of cats and to reduce the spread of aelurostrongylosis in both enzootic and free regions. The present study evaluated the efficacy of a spot-on formulation containing 280 mg/ml fluralaner and 14 mg/ml moxidectin (Bravecto® Plus, MSD) in the prevention of aelurostrongylosis in cats under field conditions. One hundred and fifty-two cats from Italy, Hungary and Bulgaria, were randomly divided in two groups, one treated with Bravecto® Plus on Study Days (SDs) 0 and 84 (74 cats, IVP Group) and one left untreated (78 cats, control group). Faecal samples were collected from all animals on SDs 42 ± 4, 84, 126 ± 4 and 168 ± 4 and subjected to the Baermann's technique and species-specific PCR for A. abstrusus. Each cat was subjected to a clinical examination on SDs 0, 84 and 168 ± 4 to check health condition and possible adverse events. The results of the faecal analysis were statistically analyzed for treatment group differences in the percentage of cats negative to the Baermann's test and PCR and percentage of reduction of fecal larvae counts as the primary and secondary efficacy criteria, respectively. The percentage of negative cats was higher in the IVP group compared to the control group and the percentage of reduction of fecal larvae counts in the IVP group compared to the control group was 100%. These results show that two administrations of Bravecto Plus® spot-on 12 weeks apart were safe and effective in the prevention of aelurostrongylosis for a period of almost 6 months.

Seropositivity for Toxoplasma gondii in cats with clinical signs and living in households with women of childbearing age.

Toxoplasmosis caused by Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoal zoonosis with high sanitary risk for pregnant women and immunocompromised people. Felids, including domestic cats, are the only definitive hosts of T. gondii. They shed oocysts which, in the environment, become infectious for a wide range of animals, including humans, acting as intermediate hosts. This study evaluated the frequency of acute toxoplasmosis in domestic cats with compatible clinical signs and living in households with women of childbearing age. Individual serum samples were collected from 150 cats and analyzed for IgM and IgG against T. gondii. Statistical analyses were performed to evaluate associations between seropositivity and potential risk factors. Overall, 31 cats (20.7 %) were seropositive for anti-T. gondii antibodies, i.e. 9 (6.0 %) for IgM, 17 (11.3 %) for IgG and 5 (3.3 %) for both. The cats showed different combinations of clinical pictures. The following statistically significant associations were found: male sex and positivity for IgM and/or IgG (p=0.0248; OR= 0.3537; 95 % CI= 0.1528-0.8675), presence of 2 or more clinical signs and positivity to IgM only (p=0.0003; OR= +infinity; 95 % CI= 3.924 to +infinity), presence of either neurological signs (p=0.0025; OR= 13.30; 95 % CI= 3.409-61.39) or ocular signs (p=0.0228; OR= 5.835; 95 % CI= 1.631-22.37) and positivity to IgM only, presence of gastrointestinal signs and positivity to IgG only (p=0.0083; OR= 5.508; 95 % CI= 1.503-18.54). Male sex also resulted a possible risk factor in the binomial logistic regression (p= 0.011; OR= 3.336; 95 % CI= 1.131-8.44). These results indicate that cats living with women of childbearing age are at risk of infection with T. gondii. The presence of certain clinical signs can be helpful in identifying recent and/or current infections using laboratory analyses. Awareness on toxoplasmosis should be kept high to protect animal and public health.

First case of macrocyclic lactone-resistant Dirofilaria immitis in Europe - Cause for concern.

Heartworm disease caused by the nematode Dirofilaria immitis is one of the most important parasitoses of dogs. The treatment of the infection is long, complicated, risky and expensive. Conversely, prevention is easy, safe, and effective and it is achieved by the administration of macrocyclic lactones (MLs). In recent years, D. immitis strains resistant to MLs have been described in Southern USA, raising concerns for possible emergence, or spreading in other areas of the world. The present study describes the first case of ML-resistant D. immitis in a dog in Europe. The dog arrived in Rome, Italy, from USA in 2023. Less than 6 months after its arrival in Italy, the dog tested positive for D. immitis circulating antigen and microfilariae, despite it having received monthly the ML milbemycin oxime (plus an isoxazoline) after arrival. The microfilariae suppression test suggested a resistant strain. Microfilariae DNA was examined by droplet digital PCR-based duplex assays targeting four marker positions at single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP1, SNP2, SNP3, SNP7) which differentiate resistant from susceptible isolates. The genetic analysis showed that microfilariae had a ML-resistant genotype at SNP1 and SNP7 positions, compatible with a resistant strain. It is unlikely that the dog acquired the infection after its arrival in Europe, while it is biologically and epidemiologically plausible that the dog was already infected when imported from USA to Europe. The present report highlights the realistic risk of ML-resistant D. immitis strains being imported and possibly transmitted in Europe and other areas of the world. Monitoring dogs travelling from one area to another, especially if they originate from regions where ML-resistance is well-documented, is imperative. Scientists, practitioners, and pet owners should be aware of the risk and remain vigilant against ML-resistance, in order to monitor and reduce the spreading of resistant D. immitis.

Clinical efficacy of a parasiticide formulation containing eprinomectin, esafoxolaner and praziquantel (NexGard® Combo) in the treatment of natural feline aelurostrongylosis and troglostrongylosis.

The metastrongyloids Aelurostrongylus abstrusus and Troglostrongylus brevior are primary causes of feline clinical respiratory disease. The present field trial evaluated the clinical efficacy of a spot-on formulation containing eprinomectin, esafoxolaner and praziquantel (NexGard® Combo) administered per label recommendations to cats affected with aelurostrongylosis and/or troglostrongylosis. Overall, 36 naturally infected cats were randomly assigned to Group 1 (G1) or Group 2 (G2) of 18 cats each. The two groups included 6 cats with A. abstrusus, T. brevior and mixed infection, each. All cats completed the study. Cats in G1 were treated on study Days (SDs) 0 and 28±2. Cats in G2 served as negative control until SD 56±2 and were then treated on SD 56±2 and 84±2. On SD 0/-7, 28±2 and SD 56±2 all cats were subjected to parasitological (quali-quantitative Baermann) and clinical examinations (physical exams and thoracic X-rays). Hematology and biochemistry analyses were performed on SD 0/-7 and SD 56±2. On SD 84±2 quali-quantitative Baermann, clinical examination and thorax radiography were performed on all G2 cats and on two G1 cats that still had radiographic alterations on SD 56±2. On SD 112±2 all G2 cats were subjected to parasitological and clinical evaluations and one cat from G1 that still had radiographic signs at SD 84±2 was clinically and radiographically evaluated. Efficacy criteria were the reduction of larval shedding in faeces and the clinical response in terms of pathological and radiographic scores after treatment compared to the baseline. An efficacy of 100 % based on LPG reduction was recorded after one (20/24 cats) or two (all 24 cats) treatments in cats with single infection by A. abstrusus or T. brevior. For cats with mixed infections, larval shedding was stopped after one (11/12 cats) or two (all 12 cats) treatments. Statistically significant clinical and radiographic improvement was evident in all study cats after 2 treatments. The present data show that two monthly treatments with NexGard® Combo stopped larval shedding and led to a significant clinical recovery and a complete resolution of radiographic abnormalities in cats infected with A. abstrusus and/or T. brevior.

Comparison of diagnostic methods for laboratory diagnosis of the zoonotic tapeworm Dipylidium caninum in cats.

The tapeworm Dipylidium caninum is the most widely distributed cestode infecting dogs, cats, and sometimes humans, worldwide. The diagnosis of the infection caused by D. caninum is achieved via the visualization of proglottids in feces or with traditional microscopic tests, but both lack sensitivity. The present study has evaluated and compared the diagnostic performance of a PCR protocol on different feline biological samples to detect D. caninum. A sample of feces, a Scotch tape test from the perianal area, and a rectal swab were collected from a total of 100 privately owned cats from Italy and Greece. All fecal samples were subjected to macroscopic examination and to floatation. Based on the results of the above tests the cats were divided in three groups, i.e. (i) cats positive for D. caninum (regardless of positivity for other endoparasites (Group A; n = 50 cats), (ii) cats negative for D. caninum but infected by other helminths (Group B; n = 25 cats), and (iii) cats negative for intestinal endoparasites (Group C; n = 25 cats). For each sample, the DNA was extracted from feces, floatation supernatant, Scotch tape test and rectal swabs and subjected to PCR. For 33 cats from Group A, at least one sample type scored positive at PCR. Of these, all were PCR-positive in the floatation aliquot, while nine and one cats were positive by PCR on feces and Scotch tape test, respectively. Swabs were negative by PCR for all the cats. None of the samples from cats of Groups B and C was positive by any PCR. Sequences obtained from amplicons generated from samples of cats enrolled in Italy had 99-100 % identity with the recently described D. caninum feline genotype. The data presented here suggest that PCR could be a useful tool for diagnosing D. caninum infections, under certain circumstances, e.g. when proglottids are unidentified, unseen or overlooked, even though it has limitations, e.g. false negative results due to fecal PCR inhibitors, uneven distribution of parasitic elements, or to intermittent proglottid and/or egg shedding. Thus, it may not be, currently, the best diagnostic choice for dipylidiosis.

Geographical isolation and hyperendemicity of Hepatozoon felis: Epidemiological scenario in Skopelos, Greece, and phylogenetic analysis.

Feline hepatozoonosis is a vector-borne disease caused by different species of the genus Hepatozoon, i.e. Hepatozoon felis, Hepatozoon silvestris and Hepatozoon canis. Knowledge on the biology, epidemiology and taxonomy of Hepatozoon spp. is still limited, despite the fact that the number of documented Hepatozoon spp. infections in domestic cats increased in recent years in different countries. This study was carried out to evaluate the prevalence and the genetic profile of Hepatozoon spp. in cats living on the island of Skopelos, Greece. Individual blood samples were collected from 54 owned cats and were subjected to Giemsa-stained blood smear examination to investigate the presence of Hepatozoon spp. gamonts and to a specific PCR protocol targeting the 18S rRNA gene of Hepatozoon. A total of 45 cats (83.3%) were found infected by Hepatozoon spp. by at least one of the methods applied. In particular, 43 (79.6%) of the cats were PCR-positive, and in 6 (11.1%) cats gamonts of Hepatozoon spp. were found in the blood smears. A total of 26 H. felis sequences were obtained and the presence of three undescribed single nucleotide polymorphisms were detected. The present results indicate that H. felis species complex may be hyperendemic in isolated/confined areas. In such contexts, geographical isolation may favor the origin of new genotypes or haplotypes or even new species.

Use of In-Clinic Diagnostic Kits for the Detection of Seropositivity to Leishmania infantum and Other Major Vector-Borne Pathogens in Healthy Dogs.

Canine Vector-Borne Diseases (CVBDs) are widespread in Europe and enzootic in many other countries. Though severe illnesses may occur, dogs living in enzootic areas often show vague or no clinical signs of CVBDs. Undiagnosed infections/co-infections in subclinically infected animals favor the spread of CVBDs and increase the risk of transmission to other animals and, in some cases, humans. This study has evaluated the exposure of dogs living in key enzootic countries, i.e., Italy and Greece, to major CVBDs via the use of in-clinic diagnostic kits. Overall, 300 privately owned dogs without/with single mild clinical signs living in different regions of Italy (n. 150) and Greece (n. 150) were included in the study. As part of a clinical examination, a blood sample was collected from each dog and subjected to two serological rapid tests, i.e., the SNAP® 4Dx®Plus (IDEXX Laboratories Inc.) for the detection of antibodies against Ehrlichia spp., Anaplasma spp., Borrelia burgdorferi s.l. and Dirofilaria immitis antigen and the SNAP®Leishmania (IDEXX Laboratories Inc.) for the detection of antibodies against Leishmania infantum. In all, 51 dogs (17%; 95% CI 12.9-21.7) were seropositive to at least 1 pathogen, i.e., 4 in Italy (2.7%; 95% CI 1.4-13.1) and 47 in Greece (31.3%; 95% CI 24-39.4). Dirofilaria immitis antigens were found in 39 dogs (13%; 95% CI 9.4-17.3), while antibodies against Ehrlichia, Anaplasma and Leishmania were detected in 25 (8.3%; 95% CI 5.5-12.1), 8 (2.7%; 95% CI 1.2-5.2) and 5 (1.7%; 95% CI 0.5-3.8) dogs, respectively. None of the dogs tested seropositive for B. burgdorferi s.l. Statistical analyses were performed to evaluate associations between exposure to CVBDs and possible risk factors. The present results indicate that dogs living in enzootic areas may be seropositive for one or more CVBDs in absence of clinical signs. Rapid kits are among first line tools for the detection of CVBDs in clinical settings, as they are cost-effective, straightforward and quick to use. Also, in-clinic tests used herein allowed detection of co-exposure to CVBDs investigated.

Seroexposure to Zoonotic Anaplasma and Borrelia in Dogs and Horses That Are in Contact with Vulnerable People in Italy.

Equine and canine anaplasmosis and borreliosis are major tick-borne zoonotic diseases caused by Anaplasma phagocytophilum and various species of Borrelia (the most important being Borrelia burgdorferi s.l.), respectively. This study evaluated the seroexposure to Anaplasma and Borrelia in dogs and horses used in Animal-Assisted Interventions or living in contact with children, elderly people or immunocompromised persons. A total of 150 horses and 150 dogs living in Italy were equally divided into clinically healthy animals and animals with at least one clinical sign compatible with borreliosis and/or anaplasmosis (present at clinical examination or reported in the medical history). Serum samples were tested with ELISA and immunoblot for the presence of antibodies against A. phagocytophilum and B. burgdorferi s.l., and the association between seropositivity and possible risk factors was analyzed using multivariate and univariate tests. Overall, 13 dogs (8.7%) and 19 horses (12.7%) were positive for at least one of the two pathogens. In addition, 1 dog (0.7%) and 12 horses (8%) were positive for antibodies against A. phagocytophilum, while 12 dogs (8.0%) and 10 horses (6.7%) had antibodies against B. burgdorferi s.l. Tick infestation in the medical history of the dogs was significantly associated with seropositivity to at least one pathogen (p = 0.027; OR 7.398). These results indicate that, in Italy, ticks infected with A. phagocytophilum and/or B. burgdorferi circulate in places where horses and dogs are in contact with people at risk of developing severe diseases. Awareness should be increased, and adequate control plans need to be developed to protect human and animal health, especially where vulnerable, at-risk individuals are concerned.

An Uncommon and Severe Clinical Case of Sarcoptes scabiei Infestation in a Cat.

The burrowing mite Sarcoptes scabiei causes sarcoptic mange in dogs and other mammals, including humans. Despite S. scabiei infests several animals, little is known about the epidemiology, clinical features, and treatment of sarcoptic mange in cats. A few reports have shown that clinical signs of S. scabiei infestation in cats may vary from non-pruritic crusted lesions to itchy and mild lesions, while severe signs are very infrequent. The present report describes a severe case of S. scabiei infestation in a stray cat from Italy, characterized by bilateral alopecia, diffuse and multifocal hyperpigmented, crusted, erythematous, scaled, and exfoliated lesions. The cat was FIV-positive and also infected by the cestode Dipylidium caninum. After treatment with a broad-spectrum parasiticide and an antibiotic, the cat showed an almost complete clinical recovery in 4 weeks. Unfortunately, no further clinical examinations were performed due to the lack of compliance of the owner and to the death of the cat for causes unrelated to sarcoptic mange. This clinical case indicates that under certain circumstances, S. scabiei can reproduce and cause severe clinical signs in cats which are usually considered non-permissive hosts for this mite, and in which the disease is usually self-limiting. Clinic-pathological, epidemiological, and zoonotic implications are discussed.

Efficacy of a spot-on combination containing 10% w/v imidacloprid and 1% w/v moxidectin for the treatment of troglostrongylosis in experimentally infected cats.

BACKGROUND: Parasitic bronchopneumonia in domestic cats in Europe, which can manifest with moderate to severe clinical signs, is frequently caused by Troglostrongylus brevior. Data on epizootiological and clinical relevance of cat troglostrongylosis have been published in the last decade but treatment options are still limited. Promising effectiveness data have been generated from clinical cases and field trials for a spot-on formulation containing 1% w/v moxidectin and 10% w/v imidacloprid (Advocate®, Elanco Animal Health). Therefore, two studies have been conducted to confirm under experimental conditions the efficacy of moxidectin 1% contained in Advocate® for the treatment of cat troglostrongylosis. METHODS: Sixteen and 20 cats experimentally infected with T. brevior were included in two separate studies, i.e., Study 1 and 2, respectively. Cats were infected with T. brevior third-stage larvae via gastric tube. In both studies cats were randomized to untreated (control, Group 1) and treatment (Group 2) groups. In Study 1 and Study 2, the two groups comprised eight and 10 cats each. Treated cats received Advocate® spot-on twice at a 4-week interval. The primary efficacy criterion was the number of viable adult T. brevior counted at necropsy. Throughout the trial, the fecal shedding of first-stage larvae (L1) was assessed in treated and untreated control cats. RESULTS: The experimental model was successful in both studies, as all cats started shedding T. brevior L1 within 25 days post-infection. At necropsy, T. brevior adults were found in 4/8 and 4/10 cats of the control groups in Study 1 and 2, respectively, while none of the treated cats harbored adult worms. The necropsy worm counts in controls did not meet relevant guideline requirements for adequacy of infection, with fewer than six infected cats in the control groups, thus limiting conclusions on treatment efficacy. The fact that 6/8 and 8/10 control cats in Study 1 and 2, respectively, shed L1 up to necropsy while larval shedding ceased in all treated animals after the first treatment provides supporting evidence on the level of efficacy. No remarkable adverse events were recorded in the two studies. CONCLUSION: These results indicate that Advocate® spot-on is a safe and effective option for treating cats infected by T. brevior.

Zoonotic intestinal helminthes diagnosed in a 6-year period (2015-2020) in privately owned dogs of sub-urban and urban areas of Italy.

Intestinal helminthes of dogs have a relevant role for health and welfare of canine populations and many of them are zoonotic. Thus, a constant surveillance is pivotal to safeguard companion dogs and human health. Data from faecal examinations of pet dogs obtained in the last six years during the routine activity of the laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic diseases of the University Teaching Veterinary Hospital of the University of Teramo, Italy, are here reported. From 2015 to 2020 a total of 1083 individual faecal samples from privately owned dogs were examined using conventional copro-microscopic techniques. Endoparasite elements were found in 278 (25.7%) dogs, and among them, eggs of intestinal zoonotic helminthes were detected in 184 (17%) samples. The most common zoonotic parasites were Toxocara canis and hookworms (8.9% positivity rate for both). Most dogs (88%) were positive for a single zoonotic parasite while 12% of the positive animals harbored two or more zoonotic helminthes. A statistical analysis showed a significant association between dogs with less than one year of age and positivity to at least one intestinal zoonotic helminth, and that infections by T. canis are significantly more prevalent in dogs under one year of age. Despite being well known in canine clinical practice, these results indicate that zoonotic helminthes are still frequent in owned dogs. Thus, increased awareness of veterinary practitioners and pet owners is necessary to implement current diagnostic and control strategies to minimize the risk of zoonotic transmission of intestinal helminthes.

Comparison of Different Copromicroscopic Techniques in the Diagnosis of Intestinal and Respiratory Parasites of Naturally Infected Dogs and Cats.

Several copromicroscopic techniques, including tools belonging to the FLOTAC group, are available for the qualitative and/or quantitative diagnosis of canine and feline parasitoses. The present study was carried out to compare the diagnostic performance of different copromicroscopic methods for detecting common intestinal and extra-intestinal parasites of dogs and cats. Fecal samples of 100 dogs and 105 cats were randomly selected from different regions of Italy. All samples were subjected to conventional flotation, McMaster, Mini-FLOTAC, and Baermann. Fifty-six dogs and twenty-five cats were found positive to at least one technique, and, among them, flotation (55% and 20.9% of the dogs and cats, respectively) and Mini-FLOTAC (52% and 20.9% of the dogs and cats, respectively) detected the highest number of positive samples. Larvae of the feline metastrongyloids Aelurostrongylus abstrusus and Troglostrongylus brevior were identified only using the Baermann test in two (1.9%) and one (0.9%) cat respectively. No larvae were found with the Baermann examination of dog feces or any of the other methods. The present results show that the Mini-FLOTAC represents a possible alternative to conventional flotation in clinical settings for the detection of intestinal and respiratory parasites e.g., Toxocara spp., Toxascaris leonina, Ancylostomatidae, Cystoisospora spp., Trichuris vulpis and Capillaria spp., although Baermann's test remains the most recommended technique for the diagnosis of infections caused by metastrongyloid lungworms.

A Comparison of Copromicroscopic and Molecular Methods for the Diagnosis of Cat Aelurostrongylosis.

The gold standard method for the diagnosis of cat aelurostrongylosis is the detection of Aelurostrongylus abstrusus first stage larvae with the Baermann's examination. Nevertheless, molecular assays have shown higher diagnostic performances compared to copromicroscopy. This study evaluated the usefulness of an A. abstrusus species-specific PCR on different biological samples collected in clinical settings from 100 privately-owned cats in Italy (n. 60) and Greece (n. 40). A fecal sample was collected from each animal and a pharyngeal swab was also obtained for cats from Italy. All stool samples were subjected to flotation and Baermann's test. The cats were categorized in three groups based on the results of copromicroscopy, i.e., Group A (n. 50 cats with A. abstrusus infection regardless of positivity for other helminths), Group B (n. 25 cats negative for A. abstrusus but positive for at least one of any other helminth), Group C (n. 25 cats negative for any helminth). DNA was extracted from individual aliquots of feces, flotation supernatant, Baermann's sediment and the pharyngeal swab and then subjected to a PCR specific for A. abstrusus. At least one fecal aliquot or the pharyngeal swab scored positive by the A. abstrusus-specific PCR for 48/50 (96%) cats enrolled in Group A; in particular, 38/50 (76%), 35/50 (70%), 41/50 (82%) and 21/25 (84%) DNA extracts from feces, flotation supernatant, Baermann's sediment and pharyngeal swabs were positive by PCR. These results confirm that molecular tools are highly sensitive and specific and indicate that pharyngeal swabs are the most suitable sample for molecular analysis in clinical settings.

Occurrence of Aelurostrongylus abstrusus in domestic cats in Vilhena, Rondônia, Brazil.

Aelurostrongylosis, caused by the metastrongylid nematode Aelurostrongylus abstrusus, is an underestimated feline respiratory disease. Cats infected by A. abstrusus may show subclinical to severe clinical signs. Aelurostrongylus abstrusus has a worldwide distribution. Nevertheless, studies on this parasite in Brazil are scarce, and most have been conducted in the southern regions. This study investigated the occurrence of A. abstrusus in cats in Vilhena, Rondônia, Brazil, from April 2020 to February 2021. Three consecutive individual fecal samples from 101 cats were examined using Baermann and Hoffman tests. Two cats (1.98%) scored positive for A. abstrusus, one with the Baermann examination, and one with the Hoffman technique. No other lungworms were retrieved. The clinicopathological and epizootiological implications are described and discussed.

Hemorrhagic Meningoencephalomyelitis Due to Ectopic Localization of Aelurostrongylus abstrusus in a Cat: First Case Report.

The lungworm Aelurostrongylus abstrusus is one of the main causes of respiratory diseases in cats worldwide. This report describes the unusual case of a kitten infected with A. abstrusus and presented to a veterinary clinic in Brazil with lethargy, dysphagia, non-ambulatory tetraplegia, and pelvic limbs bilateral myoclonus. The clinical picture of the kitten worsened with generalized flaccid tetraplegia and death a few days after hospitalization. At necropsy, hemorrhagic necrosis and subarachnoid hemorrhages were detected in several areas of the central nervous system. Nematode stages were found at post-mortem histological examinations in lungs, cerebellum, subarachnoid space of the brain and spinal cord. Microscopic and molecular (PCRs-coupled-sequencing protocols) examination showed the presence of A. abstrusus in histological samples. This study describes the first neurological aelurostrongylosis due to ectopic localization of adult worms in the central nervous system of a cat, causing acute hemorrhagic multifocal meningoencephalomyelitis. Further studies are necessary to elucidate whether unusual localizations and the migration of A. abstrusus are more frequent than expected.