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A new topical formulation of selamectin plus sarolaner (Revolution® Plus/Stronghold® Plus, Zoetis) was evaluated in the treatment and control of naturally occurring infections of Ancylostoma tubaeforme and Toxocara cati in cats presented as veterinary patients in the United States. Three thousand three hundred three (3303) cats were screened in 25 veterinary practices in 15 states and 153 hookworm-positive cats (A. tubaeforme and/or A. braziliense), mainly from Alabama, Mississippi, Texas, and Hawaii, were identified; 135 cats met all the criteria for enrollment and were included on study. The cats were randomly assigned to treatment with Revolution® (at the label dosage, to provide a minimum dosage of 6 mg/kg selamectin) or selamectin plus sarolaner (at a dosage of 6-12 mg/kg plus 1-2 mg/kg, respectively). Treatments were administered at the time of enrollment and repeated 30 days later. Fecal samples were collected for differential fecal egg count prior to the first treatment (Day 0), prior to the second treatment (Day 30), and approximately 30 days later (Day 60). Efficacy was based on the percentage reductions in geometric mean fecal egg count for A. tubaeforme on Day 30 and Day 60 compared with Day 0. Where cats were co-infected with T. cati, efficacy against this species was also evaluated. Efficacy data were evaluated for A. tubaeforme for 40 cats on both Day 30 and Day 60 for the group treated with the selamectin/sarolaner combination and reductions in geometric mean fecal egg counts of 99.4% and 99.7% were demonstrated for Day 30 and Day 60, respectively. For the group treated with selamectin alone, 44 and 40 cats were evaluated and percent reductions for Day 30 and Day 60 were 99.5% and 99.9%, respectively. For T. cati, 14 cats were evaluated in the selamectin/sarolaner-treated group for Day 30 and for Day 60, and the reduction in geometric mean fecal egg count was 100% for both days. There were 11 and 9 cats evaluated for Day 30 and Day 60, respectively, for the selamectin-treated group and the reduction was again 100% for both days. The geometric mean fecal egg counts post-treatment were significantly lower than pre-treatment for both A. tubaeforme and T. cati, for both treatments, and for both periods of interest (P

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.

The phenomenon of unequal usage of synonymous codons encoding an amino acid in which some codons are more preferred to others is the codon usage bias (CUB) and it is species specific. Analysis of CUB helps in understanding evolution at molecular level and acquires significance in mRNA translation, design of transgenes and new gene discovery. In our current study, we analyzed synonymous codon usage pattern and the factors influencing it on mitochondrial protein coding genes of 6 different hookworms i.e. Ancylostoma ceylanicum, Ancylostoma duodenale, Necator americanus, Ancylostoma tubaeforme, Ancylostoma caninum and Uncinaria sanguinis as no work was reported yet. The effective number of codons for mitochondrial genes suggested that codon usage bias was high in most species. The GC content was lower than AT content i.e. genes were AT rich as indicated by nucleotide composition analysis. The overall nucleotide composition along with its composition at 3rd codon position and correspondence analysis suggested that both natural selection and mutation pressure might have affected the codon usage bias in mitochondrial genes. However, neutrality plot revealed that mutation pressure might have played a major role in A. ceylanicum while natural selection might have played the dominant role in Ancylostoma duodenale, Necator americanus, Ancylostoma tubaeforme, Ancylostoma caninum and Uncinaria sanguinis.

Ancylostoma tubaeformemay infect canids, felids and humans, and pose a potential risk to public health. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) techniques were used to amplify the complete mitochondrial (mt) genome sequence ofA. tubaeformefrom cats and to analyse its sequence characteristics after molecular identification based on the internal transcribed spacer ITS1+ sequence. The results show that the complete mt genome sequence (GenBank accession number KY070315) ofA. tubaeformefrom cats was 13,730 bp in length, including 12 protein-coding genes, 22 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes, two ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes, two non-coding regions and an AT-rich region. The nucleotide content of A and T was 77.93%, biased toward A and T. Twelve protein-coding genes used ATT, TTG and GTG as initiation codons, and TAA, TAG, TA and T as termination codons. The length of the 22 tRNA genes ranged from 52 to 62 bp, their predicted secondary structures were D loops and V loops. The lengths of the two rRNAs were 958 and 697 bp. Phylogenetic analyses showed thatA. tubaeformefrom cats was in the lineage ofAncylostoma, having a close phylogenetic relationship withA. caninum. This study reports for the first time the mt genome ofA. tubaeformefrom cats in China, which could enhance the mt genome database of Ancylostomatidae nematodes, and it offers the scientific basis for further studies in the genetic diversity of hookworms among different hosts.

Ancylostoma ceylanicum may inhabit the small intestine of canids, felids and humans, can pose a potential risk to public health. This study is the first time to amplify complete mitochondrial genome sequence of A. ceylanicum from dog and to compare it with Ancylostoma tubaeforme, Ancylostoma duodenale and Ancylostoma caninum. The results showed that the complete mitochondrial genome of A. ceylanicum was 13,660 bp in length, including 12 protein-coding genes, 2 rRNA genes and 22 tRNA genes and 3 non-coding regions (AT-rich region, SNCR and LNCR). Its mtDNA was the shortest, biased toward A and T at base composition, and higher than other three Ancylostoma species at total AT content. Its nad5 and nad6 genes used TTG and ATT as initiation codons, while other three Ancylostoma species used ATT and GTG or ATG. The 22 tRNA genes were different in length among four Ancylostoma species, but their anticodons were the same. Among 12 protein-coding genes, the cox1 gene was the lowest at AT content and minimum at Ka/Ks while the nad2 gene was the opposite. The phylogenetic tree showed that in the lineage of Ancylostoma, A. ceylanicum occurred on a branch external to other three Ancylostoma species, and A. caninum and A. tubaeforme had closer phylogenetic relationship than A. duodenale. This study not only enhances the mitochondrial genome database of Ancylostomatidae nematodes, but also provides new data for further phylogenetic studies among Ancylostomatidae nematodes.

The efficacy of a new spot-on formulation of selamectin plus sarolaner for cats was evaluated against induced infections with Ancylostoma tubaeforme (hookworm) and Toxocara cati (roundworm). Five laboratory studies were conducted using adult, purpose-bred cats. Four of the studies were designed to evaluate efficacy of the combination against A. tubaeforme, the dose-limiting gastrointestinal nematode species for selamectin. In two of these studies non-interference between selamectin and sarolaner was also evaluated. The fifth study evaluated efficacy of the combination against mixed infections of A. tubaeforme and T. cati. The hookworm isolates in three studies were of US origin, as was the roundworm isolate. In the two remaining studies, cats were inoculated with a hookworm isolate of European origin. Cats were inoculated with 150 (±50) to 200 (±50) infective hookworm larvae 30-42days prior to treatment and with 400 infective roundworm eggs 60days prior to treatment. Cats were ranked by pre-treatment faecal egg counts and randomly allocated to different treatment groups. In all studies, cats were treated at the minimum label dose to provide 6.0mg selamectin per kg bodyweight. All animals were euthanized 7-10days after treatment for worm counts. Efficacy was calculated based on the reduction of the geometric mean worm counts in the treated groups versus the placebo-treated control groups. The efficacy against adult hookworms was 99.2%, 94.3% and 100% in three of these studies, and was lower in the remaining two studies. The efficacy against T. cati was 100%. Furthermore, non-interference between sarolaner and selamectin was demonstrated. Thus, a single topical application of the new spot-on formulation of selamectin plus sarolaner at the minimum label dose is effective in the treatment of adult hookworm and roundworm infections in cats.

Pathogen cross transmission between wildlife and domestic animals represents an extinction risk for wildlife; however, reliable verification is difficult to perform, and in some cases, it is even considered unlikely to be conducted. The aim of this work was to identify cross transmission of helminths between feral cats and captive wild felids at a zoological park in southeastern Mexico. Feces were collected from jaguars (Panthera onca), cougars (Puma concolor), ocelots (Leopardus pardalis), margays (Leopardus wiedii), and jaguarundis (Puma yagouaroundi). A flotation technique and macroscopic sieving were performed on the feces. Additionally, as part of the noxious fauna control program of the park, feral cats were captured and euthanized. To perform parasitologic studies, helminths from these animals were recovered. Toxocara cati and Trichuris campanula were shared by jaguarundis and feral cats. Ancylostoma sp. was found in jaguar and ocelot and Ancylostoma tubaeforme in feral cats. Additionally, during this study, a couple of jaguarundis died with clinical signs of trichuriasis. This is the first report of T. campanula in jaguarundi. Because feral cats roam freely in the park, transmission could occur from these vertebrates to wild felids. This study shows the risk that parasites represent to wild felids; a similar situation could be found in free-living species, especially in fragmented habitats that favor contact with domestic animals.

Hookworms of the genus Ancylostoma are the most pathogenic parasites of young cats, and A. tubaeforme may cause morbidity or mortality in young individuals of the most endangered felid species in the world, the Iberian lynx (Lynx pardinus). Since the transmission of monoxenous parasites is related to host density and remaining lynx populations are currently very small, the presence of reservoir hosts may be necessary for the maintenance of the hookworm life-cycle, the domestic cat being the most likely reservoir of A. tubaeforme. In order to confirm this hypothesis, the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene (Cox I) sequences of three A. tubaeforme specimens from a road-killed Iberian lynx from Donana were compared with 14 specimens retrieved from five sympatric free-roaming cats from the same area, and with six specimens from three free-roaming cats from the Mediterranean island of Mallorca. Gene fragments (300 bp) from 23 A. tubaeforme individuals representing 16 different haplotypes were obtained. A statistical parsimony haplotype network analysis showed that the three specimens infecting an Iberian lynx corresponded to two different haplotypes, one of which was identical to a specimen in a cat found only 10 km from the lynx. Specimens from the Iberian lynx and those from cats in Donana were only 1.03% genetically divergent, whereas specimens from Mallorca cats and those from Donana cats and the lynx diverged by 1.33% and 1.36%, respectively. The existence of shared haplotypes of hookworms between lynx and cat reinforces the hypothesis that the abundant sympatric domestic cat population is acting as a reservoir for A. tubaeforme infection in the endangered Iberian lynx.

The present study is the first national investigation of intestinal parasites in private-household cats in Japan. A total of 942 faecal samples were collected from private-household cats. Giardia species was assessed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit and other intestinal parasites were identified microscopically. The overall prevalence of intestinal parasites was 10.1%; two protozoan parasites ( Giardia species and Cystoisospora species) and five helminths ( Toxocara cati, Toxascaris leonina, Ancylostoma tubaeforme, Taenia species and Spirometra erinacei) were detected. The total prevalence of intestinal parasite infection was significantly higher in cats aged ≤6 months old than in cats older than 6 months because of a significantly higher prevalence of Cystoisospora species and T cati. The total infection prevalence was higher among outdoor cats as a result of the significantly higher prevalence of T cati and S erinacei. Sex and faecal condition were not related to intestinal parasite infections. Regional differences were observed in Cystoisospora species and A tubaeforme.

Fecal flotation is routinely used to identify feline helminth infections in clinical practice, but it is known to have limitations of sensitivity, particularly for cestodes. To determine the prevalence of helminths in a contemporary population of cats and evaluate the ability of fecal flotation to detect these infections, helminths were recovered from intestinal tracts removed from 116 adult cats humanely euthanized by an animal control shelter in northeastern Oklahoma. Results were compared to those of fecal flotation performed using both passive and centrifugal techniques. Helminths were identified in 78/116 (67.2%) cats, including Toxocara cati (48/116; 41.4%), Ancylostoma tubaeforme (8/116; 6.9%), Dipylidium caninum (40/116; 34.5%), and Taenia taeniaeformis (30/116; 25.9%). Cats with T. cati were significantly more likely to harbor T. taeniaeformis (P = .001) than cats without ascarids. Centrifugal fecal flotation with sugar solution identified 37/48 (77.1%) T. cati infections, 8/30 (26.7%) T. taeniaeformis infections, and no D. caninum infections. Proglottids were detected on external examination in 19.0% (12/63) of cats with cestodes. Cestodes were present in over half of the cats examined in this study, but the majority of these infections were not evident by the detection of external proglottids or recovery of characteristic stages on fecal flotation.

To estimate the prevalence of enteric parasites and selected vector-borne agents of dogs and cats in San Isidro de El General, Costa Rica, fecal and serum samples were collected from animals voluntarily undergoing sterilization. Each fecal sample was examined for parasites by microscopic examination after fecal flotation and for Giardia and Cryptosporidium using an immunofluorescence assay (IFA). Giardia and Cryptosporidium IFA positive samples were genotyped after PCR amplification of specific DNA if possible. The seroprevalence rates for the vector-borne agents (Dirofilaria immitis, Borrelia burgdorferi, Ehrlichia canis, and Anaplasma phagocytophilum) were estimated based on results from a commercially available ELISA. Enteric parasites were detected in samples from 75% of the dogs; Ancylostoma caninum, Trichuris vulpis, Giardia, and Toxocara canis were detected. Of the cats, 67.5% harbored Giardia spp., Cryptosporidium spp., Ancylostoma tubaeforme, or Toxocara cati. Both Cryptosporidium spp. isolates that could be sequenced were Cryptosporidium parvum (one dog isolate and one cat isolate). Of the Giardia spp. isolates that were successfully sequenced, the 2 cat isolates were assemblage A and the 2 dog isolates were assemblage D. D. immitis antigen and E. canis antibodies were identified in 2.3% and 3.5% of the serum samples, respectively. The prevalence of enteric zoonotic parasites in San Isidro de El General in Costa Rica is high in companion animals and this information should be used to mitigate public health risks.

In a retrospective study, the results of parasitological examinations of faecal samples from 8,560 cats and 24,677 dogs between January 2003 and December 2010 in Germany were analysed. 30.4 % of the examined dogs and 22.8 % of the cats were infected with endoparasites. The examination of the faecal samples from dogs revealed stages of Giardia spp. (18.6 %), Toxocara canis (6.1 %), Toxascaris leonina (0.6 %), Ancylostomatidae (2.2 %), Trichuris vulpis (1.2 %), Capillaria spp. (1.3 %), Crenosoma vulpis (0.4 %), Angiostrongylus vasorum (0.5 %), Taeniidae (0.4 %), Dipylidiidae (0.1 %), Mesocestoides spp. (0.1 %), Isospora spp. (5.6 %), I. ohioensis-complex (3.9 %), I. canis (2.4 %), Sarcocystis spp. (2.2 %) and Hammondia heydorni/Neospora caninum (0.3 %). Dogs in the age groups up to 3 months and3 up to 6 months of age showed significantly higher infection rates with Giardia spp. (37.5 % and 38.2 %, respectively), Toxocara canis (12.0 % and 12.4 %, respectively), Toxascaris leonina (1.1 % and 1.6 %, respectively), Isospora spp. (23.4 % and 11.8 %, respectively), I. ohioensis-complex (15.6 % and 7.2 %, respectively) and I. canis (11.8 % and 5.2 %, respectively) compared to older dogs. In faecal samples from cats, stages of Giardia spp. (12.6 %), Toxocara cati (4.7 %), Toxascaris leonina (0.1 %), Ancylostoma tubaeforme (0.2 %), Aelurostrongylus abstrusus (0.5 %), Capillaria spp. (1.0 %), Taeniidae (0.6 %), Dipylidium caninum (0.1 %) Mesocestoides spp. (0.1 %), Isospora spp. (6.0 %), I. felis (4.4 %), I. rivolta (2.2 %), Toxoplasma gondii/Hammondia hammondi (0.8 %) and Sarcocystis spp. (0.3 %) were detected. Cats in the age groups up to 3 months and3 up to 6 months of age showed significantly higher infection rates with Giardia spp. (19.5 % and 24.0 %, respectively), T. cati (8.1 % and 6.9 %, respectively), Isospora spp. (12.8 % and 8.6 %, respectively), I. felis (10.0 % and 5.9%, respectively) and I. rivolta (4.6 % and 2.9%, respectively) compared to older cats.

A survey of the helminths of 658 adult cats from feral urban and suburban populations in Qatar was conducted across all months in 2006 and 2007. Six species of helminths were identified, comprising two cestodes (Taenia taeniaeformis [73.6%] and Diplopylidium acanthotetra [47.1%]) and four nematodes (Ancylostoma tubaeforme [14.7%], Physaloptera praeputialis [5.2%], Toxocara cati [0.8%] and Toxascaris leonina [0.2%]), and 83% of cats were infected with at least one of these. The average number of species harboured was 1.4 and the average worm burden was 55.8 worms/cat. The vast majority of worms (97.6%) were cestodes, nematodes being relatively rare. Prevalence and abundance of infections were analyzed, taking into consideration four factors: year (2006 and 2007), site (urban and suburban), season (winter and summer) and sex of the host. Analyses revealed marked year effects, female host bias in some species and interactions involving combination of factors, but especially sex and season of the year. The results indicate that whilst the majority of adult feral cats in Qatar carry helminth infections, infections are variable between years and subject to annual changes that may reflect climatic and other environmental changes in the rapidly developing city of Doha and its suburban surroundings. Only two species have the potential to infect humans and both were rare among the sampled cats (A. tubaeforme and T. cati).

Feral cats are widespread in the countryside of Majorca (Balearic Islands, Spain). Since they are not subject of sanitary control, they can act as reservoir of parasites of veterinary and zoonotic interest. The main organs of 58 wild-trapped cats in 16 different areas from Majorca were analyzed by helminths. All the cats were parasitized, and eight species of helminths were retrieved (mean = 3.4 species per cat, with 74% of the cats harboring three or more species). Seven of them presented a prevalence >20%: Joyeuxiella pasqualei (76%), Diplopylidium acanthotetra (60%), Dipylidium carracidoi (33%), Taenia taeniaeformis (22%), Ancylostoma tubaeforme (91%), and Toxocara cati (35%) in the gastrointestinal tract, and Oslerus rostratus (24%) in lungs. The A. tubaeforme prevalence and intensity (mean = 30, up to 396) is the highest recorded for a population of cats. Prevalence and abundance of J. pasqualei and D. acanthotetra were strongly associated, secondary to the use of the same intermediary host (geckos). Other positive associations found are probably related to host susceptibility. Abundance of D. acanthotetra, T. cati, and A. tubaeforme and the number of species per host were negatively correlated with cat body condition (assessed by the kidney fat index). Females were more frequently parasitized by A. tubaeforme than males, and adult females were more heavily infested by J. pasqualei and D. acanthotetra than cats from other groups. These and other findings are discussed in relation with host ecology. Feral cats serve as reservoirs of helminths in the countryside of Majorca and their populations should be controlled.

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of the feline intestinal helminthes in Sari, northern Iran. From April to October 2004, post-mortem examinations were carried out on 100 stray cats. The gastrointestinal tract was removed, opened up and the mucosa examined microscopically for mature and immature worms. Overall, 90% of cats were infected with a high prevalence of Ancylostoma tubaeforme (64%). In relation to sex, the differences were not significant. Infection with multiple parasite species (53%) was more common than infection with only one species of parasite (37%). There was significant difference in the prevalence of infection between adult and juvenile cats (p < 0.05). From the veterinary and medical points of view, stray cats represent potential reservoirs of disease. Children especially may be at great risk, since they are more likely to come in closer contact with cats and with contaminated soil when playing with the cats and in the garden. Both animal and human health education are recommended in these communities.

The parasite fauna of stray cat populations, comprising mainly helminth parasites, is described for the first time from the arid environment of the Qatar peninsula. During the winter and summer months of 2005, 824 faecal samples were examined from six sites in Qatar. Up to seven species of parasites were identified, six of which were nematodes –Strongyloides stercoralisas the most prevalent (18.4%), followed byAelurostrongylus abstrusus(7.5%),Toxocara cati(6.1%),Ancylostoma tubaeforme(5.9%) andPhysalopterasp. (4.8%) andToxascaris leonina(0.7%) – and one sporozoan species,Isospora felis(0.5%). Unidentified cestode eggs were also recovered from 10.7% of samples examined. The parasite species were found to be highly overdispersed in faecal samples from all sites, whereas the prevalence and intensity of infections were influenced by site and season. Infection levels tended to be higher during the winter season, especially in the case ofA. abstrususandA. tubaeforme, when conditions of temperature and humidity were more favourable for the development of egg and/or larval stages of parasites compared with the extremely hot and dry summer months. The results are discussed in relation to the distribution of the cat population in the vicinity of Doha and its outskirts and the potential threat of parasite transmission to human communities in Qatar.

The presence of zoonotic parasites in feral cats have been widely considered all over the world. In Gran Canaria (Macaronesian archipelago, Canary Islands, Spain) the number of feral cats has grown out of control in urban and rural areas. 48 of Felis catus captured in different Gran Canaria areas were studied. Animals were necropsied and several organs were systematically examined in order to collect and identify macroscopic parasites. In addition, coprological tests were done in 28 cats. There were no statistically significant differences in the prevalence rate among sex, age or capture area, showing an overall prevalence of helminths of 77.1%. The most common tapeworms were Dipylidium caninum (64.6%) and Taenia taeniaeformis (31.3%), followed by the nematodes Toxocara cati (20.8%), Ancylostoma tubaeforme (18.8%), Aelurostrongylusabstrusus (10.4%) and Truchuris vulpis (2.08%). We also find several eggs of Alaria alata in the small intestine of one cat (2.08%), being the first description of this trematode in cats in the Canary Islands. Aproximatelly, 40% of the studied cats harboured more than one parasite. High rates of zoonotic species found in these animals suggest the need of controling parasitic infections and preventive measures against them.

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.

The prevalence of gastrointestinal helminth parasites in 135 cats over 1 year of age and inhabiting the metropolitan region of the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil was investigated by necropsy. These animals had two distinct origins: 99 cats (29 males and 70 females) were derived by capture in public areas (feral/stray) and 36 (12 males and 24 females) from shelters. The overall prevalence of gastrointestinal helminth parasites was 89.6%. The following parasites, with their respective prevalence in parenthesis, were found: Dipylidium caninum (52.6%), Ancylostoma braziliense (65.9%), Ancylostoma tubaeforme (8.9%), Toxocara cati (25.2%), Toxascaris leonina (11.9%), Physaloptera praeputialis (9.6%). Concurrent infections with two or more parasites were recorded in 59.5% of the individuals. Of the 121 parasitized cats, 94 were feral/strays and 27 were from shelters. Among feral/stray cats, 80 were infected with A. braziliense (85%) and 17 of the shelter felids were infected with D. caninum (63%). Feral/stray cats had higher worm intensities (6411/94-68.2) than shelter cats (992/27-36.7). The helminth parasites most frequently found in feral/stray cats were Ancylostoma braziliense (47.5%) and D. caninum (47%) while in shelter cats, D. caninum was the predominant species (85.2%). Twenty seven cats (22.3%) had only A. braziliense and 19 (15.7%) were parasitized only with D. caninum. Among those cats harboring mixed infections A. braziliense and D. caninum were the species more frequently found (P < 0.001).

The efficacy of milbemycin oxime against fourth-stage (L4) larvae and adults of Ancylostoma tubaeforme was investigated in a trial involving 24 young domestic shorthair cats. The animals were inoculated with approximately 300 infective stage three (L3) larvae and divided into three groups. After 12 days, eight cats (group 1) were treated with medicated tablets containing 4 mg milbemycin and 10 mg praziquantel to test the efficacy against L4 larvae; eight cats in group 2 were treated with the same tablets after 33 days to test the efficacy against adult worms; and eight cats in group 3 were treated with a placebo tablet. Faecal egg counts were determined periodically in each cat and after 40 or 41 days the number of worms in each animal was determined postmortem. The egg count reduction was determined by comparing the geometric mean numbers of eggs per gram of faeces in the placebo and medicated groups, and the worm reduction by comparing the geometric mean numbers of worms. The egg count reduction was more than 99 per cent in both treated groups, while the number of worms in groups 1 and 2 were reduced by 94.7 per cent and 99.2 per cent, respedively.

Fecal samples from 450 cats were examined by fecal floatation to determine the helminth fauna of Connecticut cats. Overall, 39.8% of the cats were infected with the roundworm Toxocara cati, 4.7% with the tapeworm Dipylidium caninum, 0.4% with the hookworm Ancylostoma tubaeforme, and 0.2% with the lungworm Aelurostrongylus abstrusus. Toxoplasma-like oocysts were found in the feces of 0.7% of the cats. Sheltered cats had a significantly higher prevalence (67.5%) of T. cati infection than did client-owned cats (30.4%). All intestinal helminths detected in this study have zoonotic potential, underscoring the importance of the domestic cat as a reservoir for zoonotic parasites. Strict adherence by veterinarians to the guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Association of Veterinary Parasitologists for strategic deworming of kittens is warranted, as is vigilance in the control of feral cats and in the screening and treatment of kittens and cats ``going out” for adoption from shelters.

Four studies were conducted to examine the efficacy of a novel topical combination of fipronil, (S)-methoprene, eprinomectin, and praziquantel (BROADLINE®, Merial) against Ancylostoma tubaeforme and Ancylostoma braziliense hookworms of cats. In each study, purpose-bred cats were randomly assigned to treatment groups of 10 or 12 cats per group. In three studies the cats were inoculated with A. tubaeforme and in one study with A. braziliense. The inoculations were undertaken on a schedule which resulted in the hookworms reaching the fourth larval stage in two of the studies, or the adult stage in four of the studies, by the day of treatment. In each study there was also an untreated control and 1 or 2 groups treated with the novel combination. In the two studies where efficacy against the fourth larval stage of A. tubaeforme was tested, the efficacy recorded was 100%. In the three studies where efficacy against the adult stage of A. tubaeforme was tested, efficacy of 100% was also confirmed. In the study where efficacy against the adult stage of A. braziliense was tested efficacy was 99.5%.

The two ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacers (1 and 2) of the hookworms Ancylostoma caninum, A. tubaeforme, A. ceylanicum and A. duodenale were sequenced. The sequence lengths were similar among the four species, except that A. ceylanicum had slightly longer (by 5-7 bp) internal transcribed spacer 1 and 2 sequences. The predicted secondary structure of the internal transcribed spacer 2 precursor rRNA was similar for all species, despite interspecific differences in primary sequence ranging from 0.9% to 13.2%. Interspecific differences in internal transcribed spacer 1 sequence ranged from 0.9% to 7.5%. A cladistic analysis of the sequence data, using the human hookworm Necator americanus as the outgroup, provided little resolution of the phylogenetic relationships, except that A. ceylanicum occurred on a branch external to the other three species. Nonetheless, internal transcribed spacers 1 and 2 may provide useful phylogenetic information at higher taxonomic levels within the superfamily Ancylostomatoidea.

Specimens of 12 helminth species were collected from carcasses of eight Lynx pardinus (Temminck, 1827), a carnivore endemic to the Iberian Peninsula. These species included: Brachylaima sp. (12.5%) (Trematoda); Taenia pisiformis (12.5%), T. polyacantha (25%), T. taeniaeformis (25%) and Mesocestoides litteratus (37.5%) (Cestoda); Eucoleus aerophilus (12.5%), Ancylostoma tubaeforme (12.5%), Toxocara cati (37.5%), Toxascaris leonina (62.5%), Vigisospirura potekhina potekhina (12.5%), Mastophorus muris (12.5%) and Physaloptera praeputialis (12.5%) (Nematoda). The helminth fauna in Iberian lynx is compared with that of L. canadensis and L. rufus in America, and for L. lynx in Eurasia. The potential relationships between the parasitological data and some geographical, historical and dietary factors are discussed.

A 3½ years old mongrel female cat was brought with the history of inappetence, seizure and lateral recumbency since 4 days and motion sickness since 2 days. Faecal examination confirmed Toxocara cati and Ancylostoma tubaeforme along with un-hatched live Toxocara cati larvae. Treatment has been initiated with Pyrantel pamoate and along with supportive therapy.

Stray cats live in high-density colonies in urban areas and pose a health hazard to household cats and humans. In Portugal, information on the parasitic fauna of stray cats is limited and relies mostly on results from faecal analysis. The present survey aimed to determine the prevalence, diversity and intensity of parasites in stray cats from the urban area of Lisbon by means of parasitological necropsy. Internal organs were collected from 162 cats captured in different areas of the city and systematically subjected to parasitological dissection. Helminths were identified by macro- and microscopic examination and protozoa by faecal floatation and sedimentation techniques. The overall prevalence of parasites was 90.7% (95% confidence interval (CI): 85.3–94.6%). A total of 12 parasite species was recorded:Cystoisospora felis(14.2%),Cystoisospora rivolta(46.3%),Sarcocystissp. (1.2%),Ancylostoma tubaeforme(19.1%),Toxocara cati(38.3%),Ollulanus tricuspis(30.9%),Aelurostrongylus abstrusus(12.4%), Eucoleus aerophilus(0.6%),Taenia taeniaeformis(3.1%),Dipylidium caninum(53.1%),Joyeuxiella pasqualei(15.4%) andDiplopylidium nölleri(3.7%). Overall mean species richness was 2.36 ± 1.52. Helminth mean intensity was highest forO. tricuspis(285.8), followed byD. caninum(42.4),J. pasqualei(14.4),A. tubaeforme(8.1) andT. cati(5.9). The prevalence and variety of parasites found in our sampling are substantially higher than the numbers previously reported in Portugal. Some of the parasites, includingT. catiandA. tubaeforme,are zoonotic, which emphasizes the need for parasite control strategies based on demographic containment of stray cat populations in urban areas to promote public health protection.

Infections with endoparasites in dogs and cats have been determined by analysing the results of faecal examinations (Flotation, MIFC, sedimentation, Baermann, smear, ProSpecT Giardia Microplate Assay). Samples of 8438 dogs and 3167 cats from the years 1999 until 2002 have been included in the investigation. 2717 dogs (32.2%) and 771 cats (24.3%) have been infected with endoparasites. In the infected dogs the following parasites have been identified: Class Nematodea: Toxocara canis: 22.4%, Toxascaris leonina: 1.8%, Ancylostomatidae: 8.6%, Trichuris vulpis: 4.0%, Capillaria spp.: 2.3%, Crenosoma vulpis: 0.9%, Angiostrongylus vasorum: 0.3%; Class Cestodea: Taeniidae: 1.2%, Dipylidium caninum: 0.4%, Diplopylidium/Joyeuxiella: 0.1%, Mesocestoides: 0.2%, Diphyllobothrium latum: < 0.1%; Class Sporozoea: Sarcocystis spp.: 9.0%, Cystoisospora spp.: 22.3%, C. canis: 8.0%, C. ohioensis: 17.0%, Hammondia/Neospora: 1.7%; Class Zoomastigophorea: Giardia spp.: 51.6%. In the 771 infected cats the following prevalences of parasites have been found: Class Nematodea: Toxocara mystax: 26.2%, Ancylostoma tubaeforme: 0.3%, Capillaria spp.: 7.0%, Aelurostrongylus abstrusus: 2.7%; Class Cestodea: Taeniidae: 2.6%, Dipylidium caninum: 0.1%; Class Sporozoea: Sarcocystis spp.: 2.2%, Cystoisospora spp.: 21.9%, C. felis: 15.3%, C. rivolta: 7.9%, Toxoplasma/Hammondia: 4.5%; Class Zoomastigophorea: Giardia spp.: 51.6%.

The objective of this study was to investigate the frequency of occurrence and variety of intestinal parasites among free-living wild animals. Fecal samples from wild mammals and birds at rehabilitation centers in the states of Mato Grosso do Sul and São Paulo were analyzed by sedimentation and flotation-centrifugation methods. Parasite eggs, oocysts, cysts and/or trophozoites were found in 71% of the samples. Cryptosporidiumsp. oocysts were detected in fecal samples from oncillas (Leopardus tigrinus) and scaly-headed parrots (Pionus maximiliani). Giardia cysts were identified in the feces of a gray brocket (Mazama gouazoubira). Among the most common parasites found, there were eggs from Toxocara cati,Toxascaris leonina and Ancylostoma tubaeforme, and from Cestoda. Several Enterobiussp. eggs were found in the feces of red howler monkeys (Alouatta seniculus). It can be concluded from this study that despite the small number of samples, the diversity of parasites found was noteworthy. Additional information about parasite endofauna in wild animals is needed, since their presence might suggest that there could be proximity to and interactions with domestic animals and/or humans. In addition, further studies on parasites from free-living wild animals are of prime importance for understanding the intensity of anthropic changes in wild environments. O objetivo deste trabalho foi pesquisar a frequência de ocorrência e a variedade de parasitas intestinais de animais silvestres de vida livre. Amostras de fezes de mamíferos e aves silvestres de centros de reabilitação dos Estados do Mato Grosso do Sul e São Paulo, foram analisadas pelos métodos de sedimentação e de centrífugo-flutuação. Foram encontrados ovos, oocistos, cistos e/ou trofozoítos de parasitas em 71% das amostras. Oocistos deCryptosporidium sp. foram detectados em amostras de fezes de gato-do-mato-pequeno (Leopardus tigrinus) e maritacas (Pionus maximiliani). Cistos de Giardiaforam identificados nas fezes de um veado catingueiro (Mazama gouazoubira). Entre os parasitas mais comuns, foram encontrados ovos de Toxocara cati, Toxascaris leonina eAncylostoma tubaeforme, além de ovos de Cestoda. Vários ovos de Enterobius sp. foram encontrados nas fezes de bugio (Alouatta seniculus). Neste trabalho concluiu-se que, apesar de pequeno o número de amostras, a diversidade de parasitas encontrados foi relevante. Informações adicionais sobre a endofauna parasitária em animais silvestres são necessárias, pois podem sugerir a interação e proximidade com animais domésticos e/ou o homem. Além disso, maiores estudos sobre os parasitas de animais silvestres de vida livre são primordiais para a compreensão da intensidade de alterações antrópicas no meio silvestre.

A convenience sampling of fecal specimens from 40 cats in northern Florida was examined for the presence of Ancylostoma braziliense eggs by using centrifugal sugar flotation and polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP). Of the 40 samples, 26 (65%) contained hookworm eggs. DNA from 24 samples was successfully amplified using PCR; using RFLP, 10 samples were identified as containing DNA of A. braziliense (41.7% of the 24 samples that successfully amplified). Of these, 6 samples contained DNA of both Ancylostoma tubaeforme and A. braziliense, and 4 samples contained only DNA of A. braziliense. The remaining samples (n = 14) contained only the DNA of A. tubaeforme, except for 1 sample that had no discernible bands after RFLP.

The establishment of cat- and dog-derived laboratory strains of Ancylostoma braziliense allowed for a morphological comparison of the eggs of A. braziliense, Ancylostoma caninum, and Ancylostoma tubaeforme. The length, width, and perimeter were determined for images of 10 eggs each of A. braziliense from the feces of a dog infected with a canine isolate and a cat infected with a feline isolate, A. caninum from dog feces, and A. tubaeforme from cat feces. The specific identity of the eggs was verified by polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism by using HinfI and RsaI restriction digests followed by gel electrophoresis and sequencing. The mean (±SD) length, width, and perimeter and the length-to-width ratio (±SD) (all measurements are in micrometers) for the eggs of each species were as follows: A. braziliense eggs (combined cat and dog source), 53.03 ± 2.33, 36.37 ± 1.35, 140.43 ± 2.56, and 1.46 ± 0.11; A. caninum eggs, 63.92 ± 5.28, 39.21 ± 1.52, 161.99 ± 9.30, and 1.63 ± 0.13; and A. tubaeforme eggs, 61.44 ± 3.05, 39.14 ± 1.40, 157.98 ± 5.81, and 1.57 ± 0.08. The eggs of A. braziliense were significantly (P0.001) smaller than the eggs of A. caninum and A. tubaeforme in all dimensions. Thus, the eggs seem to be readily distinguishable using light microscopy, thereby aiding in species identification in fecal samples for a more comprehensive clinical picture and assessment of zoonotic risk.

Isolation of a specific Ancylostoma species typically requires death of the source animal, or holding an animal long enough to collect feces after treatment, for worm recovery and identification. The reason for collecting worms is that the eggs are not easy to distinguish morphologically. In keeping with the 3 Rs of laboratory animal research (reduction, refinement, replacement), the objective of this study was to obtain an isolate of Ancylostoma braziliense from 1-time field-collected samples of canine feces without the need for killing the host. During a collection trip to Florida, fecal samples (n = 148) were collected and identified as containing eggs of Ancylostoma species (n = 64) using centrifugal sugar flotation. Eggs from hookworm-positive slides were washed into tubes, DNA was extracted, and 2 samples were identified as A. braziliense using restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) with Hinf1. Larval cultures were initiated from these samples, and larvae from the cultures were returned to New York and used to inoculate a purpose-bred kitten with the goal of inhibiting the growth of any contaminating Ancylostoma caninum that might be present in the culture. The infection was patent at 15 days, and eggs were identified as A. braziliense by RFLP and DNA sequencing. Using forceps during endoscopy, 2 adult worms (1 male, 1 female) were recovered from the cat and identified morphologically as A. braziliense . Larvae were cultured from the feces of this cat and used to infect a laboratory-reared beagle dog. Additionally, worms recovered from the feces of the cat post-treatment were confirmed to be A. braziliense , except for 1 female A. caninum containing infertile eggs. The dog (patent 14 days post-infection) was also infected with A. braziliense as determined by RFLP and DNA sequencing of eggs and cultured larvae. Both the cat and dog were treated, verified to be no longer shedding eggs, and then placed into adoptive homes.

A total of 111 samples (43 faeces and 79 gastrointestinal tracts) of 14 wild carnivore species from 12 Argentine provinces were analyzed. Helminth eggs were identified in 73% of the faecal samples and adult worms were recovered from 81% of the gastrointestinal tracts. We found 19 helminth species. Among the most frequent findings were parasites of domestic carnivores, namely Toxocara canis, Toxocara cati, Toxascaris leonina, Ancylostoma caninum, Ancylostoma tubaeforme and Uncinaria stenocephala. In addition, new hosts are reported for 6 nematode species and 5 helminth species are recorded for the first time in Argentina: Aonchotheca putorii, Molineus brachiurus, Cyathospirura chevreuxi, Physaloptera praeputialis and Oncicola martini.

Two exploratory studies were performed to determine the optimum therapeutic dose of Procox(®) for the removal of experimental infection with mature adult Toxocara (T.) cati and Ancylostoma (A.) tubaeforme in kittens. Procox(®) is a new oral suspension containing a combination of the nematocidal and coccidiocidal active principles emodepside (0.1 %) and toltrazuril (2 %).In the first study, 18 eight-weeks-old kittens were inoculated with 450 L3 larvae of T. cati. 56 days after infection, the kittens were allocated to three treatment groups and were treated with 0.5 mg emodepside/kg body weight (group 1), 0.25 mg emodepside/kg body weight (group 2) and 0.1 mg emodepside/kg body weight (group 3), respectively. In the second study, 10 eight-weeks-old kittens were inoculated with 350 L3 larvae of A. tubaeforme. Four weeks after infection, the kittens were allocated to two treatment groups and were treated with 0.1 mg emodepside/kg body weight (group 1) or 0.25 mg emodepside/kg body weight (group 2). In both studies, all kittens received a reference treatment with Drontal(®) (230 mg pyrantel embonate and 20 mg praziquantel per tablet) at the recommended dose of one tablet/4 kg body weight 5 days after treatment with Procox(®). Anthelmintic efficacy was calculated by reduction in worm numbers expelled with the faeces following treatment with Procox(®) as compared with faecal worm numbers after reference treatment with Drontal(®), by thus avoiding necropsy of the animals.In the T. cati study, emodepside was at 99.9 %, 100 % and 96.5 % effective at a dosage of 0.5 mg, 0.25 mg and 0.1 mg per kg body weight, respectively. Against A. tubaeforme emodepside was at 95.7 % and 100 % effective at a dosage of 0.1 mg and 0.25 mg per kg body weight. No adverse events were seen during either study.It can be concluded that Procox(®) is efficacious for the control of mature adult T. cati and A. tubaeforme infections in cats at a single-dose rate of 0.25 mg emodepside/kg body weight.

Following the recovery of first-stage nematode larvae indicative of Aelurostrongylus abstrusus infection in the faeces of free-roaming cats from the greater Tirana area, examination of 18 cats at necropsy revealed nine of them harbouring adult A. abstrusus (Railliet, 1898) in the lungs (prevalence, 50%; range, 1-11). In addition to A. abstrusus, Eucoleus aerophilus (16.7%; 1-9) was isolated from the lungs, and Toxocara cati (83.3%; 2-33), Ancylostoma tubaeforme (44.4%; 1-20), Dipylidium caninum (83.3%; 1-164), Joyeuxiella pasqualei (11.1%; 1-3) and one specimen of an acanthocephalan (5.5%) were recovered from the gastrointestinal tract. Furthermore, oocysts of Cystoisospora felis and C. rivolta were found in the rectal faeces of 5.6% and 11.1% of the cats, respectively. In conclusion, the prevalence of endoparasite infection in free-roaming cats in Tirana can be considered to be high. The occurrence of A. abstrusus, which may cause respiratory distress in cats, is reported for the first time in Albania.

Prevalence of intestinal parasites in dogs and cats in Barcelona and surrounding areas was studied by analyzing 505 faecal samples of dogs and 50 of cats using a formol-ether diphasic method for helminths, a modified acid-fast technique for Cryptosporidium and other coccidian oocysts, and the Heindenhein technique for Giardia and Entamoeba trophozoites and cysts. Parasites were found in 26.9% of dogs and 34.0% of cats. Giardia duodenalis, Cryptosporidium sp., coccidian oocysts and Entamoeba sp. were detected in both dogs and cats. Taenia sp., Dipylidium caninum, Ancylostoma caninum, Toxocara canis, Toxascaris leonina, Trichuris vulpis and Uncinaria sp. were also found in dogs but only Ancylostoma tubaeforme and Toxocara cati in cats. There was a significant relationship for G. duodenalis and Cryptosporidium sp. with seasonality and for G. duodenalis with geographical origin in dogs. Significant differences were also found for T. canis between stray and domestic dogs and for T. vulpis between males and females.

Five critically endangered Iberian lynxes (Lynx pardinus) and 35 other sympatric carnivores (19 feral catsFelis catus, 12 Egyptian mongoosesHerpestes ichneumon, and 4 common genetsGenetta genetta) were analysed for helminths in Sierra Morena and Doñana area (southern Spain).Ancylostoma tubaeforme, which was believed to be harmful for lynx cubs according to a previous study, was present in the only lynx and in 53% of cats analysed in Doñana (80% in adult cats). Other species shared in both areas wereToxocara cati(1 lynx, 31% of cats),Joyeuxiella pasqualei(1 lynx, 21% of cats) andMesocestoidessp. (2 lynxes, 5% of cats). Only one mongoose was parasitized, harbouring larvae of two acantocephalan species not previously reported in the Iberian peninsula (Centrorhynchus(Sphaerirostris)lanceaandCentrorhynchus(Longirostris)undulatus). Feral cats may be a reservoir for hookworms and other helminths affecting the Iberian lynx. In contrast, mongooses and genets may not play a role in the epidemiology of these species.

One hundred fecal samples were collected during research on Eurasian lynx ecology and food habits in the Polish part of the Bialowieza Primeval Forest (BPF) from 2001 to 2006. Seventy-three percent of samples contained eggs or larvae of helminths. A total of 10 species of helminths was identified, including 3 Cestoda (Diphyllobothrium latum, Spirometra janickii, and unidentified species of Taeniidae), 1 Trematoda (Alaria alata), and 6 Nematoda (Aelurostrongylus abstrusus, Ancylostoma tubaeforme, Eucoleus aerophilus, Metastrongylus sp., Nematodirus sp., and Toxocara cati). Alaria alata has not been reported previously in lynx. A statistical comparison of the 2 techniques used to isolate eggs, i.e., flotation and sedimentation, indicates that sedimentation was more effective.

Parasite surveys of free-ranging wildlife provide important information for monitoring population health. Between March 2001 and March 2003, we sampled 10 ocelots (Leopardus pardalis), eight Geoffroy's cats (Oncifelis geoffroyi), a jaguarundi (Herpailurus yaguarondi), five pampas foxes (Pseudalopex gymnocercus), and three crab-eating foxes (Cerdocyon thous) at three sites in the Bolivian Chaco. The objective of the study was to survey the parasite fauna of these carnivores and compare prevalence of parasites among the sites. The parasite community of these carnivores was diverse, with representatives from eight genera of nematodes, two families of cestodes, two protozoan species, and six arthropod species. Fecal parasites identified from 12 of the 13 felids and five of the six canids examined included Aelurostrongylus abstrusus, Ancylostoma tubaeforme, Uncinaria sp., Crenosoma sp., Toxocara cati, Spirurida, Capillaria aerophila, Spirometra sp., Taeniidae, and Cystoisospora sp. Four tick species, Amblyomma parvum, A. tigrinum, A. ovale, and A. cajennense, and two flea species, Pulex irritans and Delostichus phyllotis, were identified. Two crab-eating foxes had serologic evidence of heartworm disease (HWD). Antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii were found in 15 of 26 animals. Although HWD was found only in canids inside the national park, parasite prevalence did not appear to differ among sites, and no evidence was found of parasite spillover from domestic to wild carnivores.

Thirty feral cats (Felis catus) from Alachua county (northern Florida) and 30 from Palm Beach county (southern Florida) were examined for hookworms. Two species, Ancylostoma tubaeforme and Ancylostoma braziliense, were identified. Forty-five cats (75%) were infected with A. tubaeforme, with a mean intensity of 48 hookworms per cat. Twenty cats (33%) were infected with A. braziliense, with a mean intensity of 28 worms per cat. The prevalence of A. tubaeforme was greater than that of A. braziliense in Alachua (P=0.002) and Palm Beach (P=0.004) counties. The intensity of A. tubaeforme infections was higher in Palm Beach county than Alachua county (P=0.013). The intensities of A. tubaeforme and A. braziliense were positively correlated (increased together) in Palm Beach county (P=0.011). These hookworms have also been identified in bobcats (Felis rufus), gray foxes (Urocyon cinereoargenteus), and red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) in Florida. The prevalence of A. tubaeforme was significantly greater in feral cats than those reported in bobcats (P

Objective: To determine the prevalence of Giardia duodenalis and other intestinal parasites in children, dogs and cats from Aboriginal communities in the west Kimberley region of Western Australia. Design: A four-year parasitological survey of faecal specimens from humans and faecal and intestinal specimens from dogs and cats. Setting: Local hospital servicing Aboriginal communities surveyed in this study and the Veterinary School, Murdoch University. Population: Children (under 14 years) and adults, as well as dogs and cats, from five Aboriginal communities. Results: G. duodenalis was the most prevalent parasite in children and adults (32.1% in children, n = 361; 12.5% in adults, n = 24). Human infections with Hymenolepis nana (20.5%) and Entamoeba coli (13.0%) were also common. Ancylostoma duodenale (1.3%), Pentatrichomonas hominis (1.0%), Chilomastix mesnili (0.52%), Entamoeba hartmanni (0.52%), Sarcocystis sp. (0.52%), Trichuris trichiura (0.26%), Enterobius vermicularis (0.26%), Strongyloides stercoralis (0.26%) and Isospora belli (0.26%) were present at low rates. Dogs were most commonly infected with Ancylostoma caninum (51.1%) and G. duodenalis (17.0%). Cats were found to have a high prevalence of Ancylostoma tubaeforme (18.2%), Toxoplasma gondii (18.2%), Isospora felis (15.1%) and Spirometra erinacei (15.1%). Conclusions: This study has shown that children from Aboriginal communities in the west Kimberley region of Western Australia, particularly in the age group one to five years, are commonly infected with intestinal parasites. The dogs and cats in these communities are also infected. The high prevalence rates of Giardia and other enteric parasites in this survey are indicative of poor living conditions and low levels of hygiene. In addition, the high prevalence of hookworm and Giardia infection in dogs and hookworm and Toxoplasma infection in cats is of potential zoonotic significance for humans in these communities.

Three Tsushima leopard cats (Felis bengalensis euptilura) in Japan were collected as road kills. Three species of trematodes (Pharyngostomum cordatum, Paragonimus sp. and Dicrocoeliidae gn. sp.), one species of cestode (Spirometra erinacei) and nine species of nematodes (Arthrostoma hunanensis, Uncinaria felidis, Uncinaria sp., Ancylostoma tubaeforme, Molineus springsmithi, Toxocara cati, Capillaria aerophila, Capillaria felis-cati, and Capillaria sp.) were found. Among these helminths, Arthrostoma hunanensis, Uncinaria spp., and Molineus springsmithi have not been reported previously in Japanese domestic cats.

The efficacy of selamectin against experimentally induced and naturally acquired infections of adult ascarids (Toxocara cati) and adult hookworms (Ancylostoma tubaeforme) was evaluated in five controlled studies in cats. Two studies evaluated the efficacy of selamectin against both ascarid (natural or induced) and hookworm (induced) infections; two studies evaluated the efficacy of selamectin against single natural infections of T. cati or A. tubaeforme; and the fifth study evaluated the efficacy of selamectin against induced infections of A. tubaeforme. Cats received selamectin topically in unit doses designed to deliver a minimum of 6mgkg(-1). Treatments were applied to the skin on each animal's back at the base of the neck in front of the scapulae. For experimentally induced infections, cats were inoculated orally with approximately 500 embryonated eggs of T. cati 56 days prior to treatment and/or approximately 150-250 larvae (L(3)) of A. tubaeforme 30 or 42 days prior to treatment. For both induced and naturally acquired infections, cats were allocated randomly to treatments (6-12 cats per treatment) on the basis of fecal egg counts to receive either selamectin or a vehicle containing the inert formulation ingredients. In all studies, adult worm counts were performed at necropsy 14 days after the last treatment administration. Against T. cati, a single application of selamectin provided a 100% reduction in the geometric mean number of adult worms for both experimentally induced and naturally acquired infections. Against A. tubaeforme, a single administration of selamectin provided a 99.4% reduction in the geometric mean number of adult worms in cats with natural infections, and an 84.7-99.7% reduction in adult worms in cats with induced infections. Two doses of selamectin administered at monthly intervals provided a 91.9% reduction in the geometric mean number of adult A. tubaeforme worms in cats with experimentally induced infections. The geometric mean numbers of adult worms (T. cati and A. tubaeforme) from selamectin-treated cats were significantly (P< or =0.0018) lower than for vehicle-treated cats in all studies. Thus, a single topical unit dosage providing a minimum dosage of 6mgkg(-1) selamectin was highly effective in the treatment of naturally acquired and experimentally induced infections of T. cati and A. tubaeforme in cats.

Gastrointestinal helminths were collected from 58 necropsied stray cats ( Felis catus ) in the mid-Ebro Valley, North-East Spain, from December 1989 to March 1992. The prevalence was 89.7%, with those of i ndividual parasites being Toxocara cati 55.2%, Ancylostoma tubaeforme 29.3%, Joyeuxiella pasqualei 55.2%, Diplopylidium acanthotetra 20.7%, Dipylidium caninum 20.7%, Mesocestoides spp. 13.8%, Taenia taeniformis 8.6% and Diplopylidium nolleri 8.6%. In relation to sex, the differences were not significant. However, the season of the year significantly affected the prevalence of A. tubaeforme and D. acanthotetra .

The prevalence of fleas and gastrointestinal parasites in free-roaming and domestic cats in central Mexico was evaluated. Three hundred and fifty eight cats captured in the street or brought in by owners to the Animal Control Center Unit, a unit of State Government, from June 2010 to May 2011, were included in the study. All cats were examined for the presence of fleas and gastrointestinal worms. One-hundred and ninety (53%) cats were infested with at least one flea species. Single infestations were observed in 106 (30%) cats and mixed infestations in 84 (23%) cats. Four species of fleas were recovered: Ctenocephalides felis in 53% of the cats, C. canis in 18%, Echidnophaga gallinacea in 7% and Pulex irritans in 1%. One-hundred and sixty three (45%) cats were infected with one or more species of gastrointestinal parasites: 48 (13%) with nematodes, 145 (40%) with cestodes, and one animal presented Moniliformis moniliformis. Prevalences and mean intensity of infection were: Physaloptera praeputialis 7 and 18; T. cati 3 and 2; Ancylostoma tubaeforme 2.5 and 2; Toxascaris leonina 0.5 and 2; Dipylidium caninum 36 and 32; Taenia taeniformis 4 and 3 and Moniliformis moniliformis 0.3 and 106, respectively. There was significant association (P0.05). The correlation between the total number of ectoparasites and endoparasites was not significant (r = 0.089, P = 0.094).

Anthelmintic efficacy of milbemycin D was evaluated against Toxocara cati and Ancylostoma tubaeforme in domestic cats. Twelve cats naturally infected with each nematode species were allocated among 2 groups of 6 animals each, and milbemycin D was orally administered to the 2 groups of cats in doses of 0.05 mg/kg and 0.1 mg/kg body weight, respectively. In all the cats infected with T. cati, fecal egg counts decreased followed by their disappearance from the feces and 2-35 worms were excreted into the feces after the medication in both doses of 0.05 mg/kg and 0.1 mg/kg. At postmortem of these medicated groups, no worms were detected from 4 cats of each group, but 1 and 2 immature worms were recovered from the other 2 cats respectively. In the cats infected with A. tubaeforme, fecal egg counts decreased followed by the disappearance from the feces and 2-62 worms were excreted into the feces in all the cats of the 2 groups, no nematodes remaining at postmortem. These results indicate that milbemycin D is fully effective against T. cati and A. tubaeforme in cats in a dose of 0.05-0.1 mg/kg.

Third-stage infective larvae of the canine hookworm Ancylostoma caninum resume feeding in vitro in response to several stimuli. Experiments were conducted to characterize the in vitro feeding behavior of several hookworm species. Reduced glutathione and, to a lesser extent, canine and human serum stimulated third-stage larvae of Ancylostoma duodenale to resume feeding. Glutathione-induced feeding reached a maximum by 16 hr and was concentration-dependent between 0- and 15-mM glutathione. Oxidized glutathione and the reducing agents dithiothreitol and L-cysteine failed to induce feeding, suggesting that reducing conditions alone were not stimulatory. Serum incubated with glutathione was the most efficient stimulus for Ancylostoma ceylanicum, Ancylostoma braziliense, and Ancylostoma tubaeforme larvae, whereas Uncinaria stenocephala larvae responded best to canine serum alone. Necator americanus larvae did not resume feeding in response to glutathione, serum, glutathione plus serum, or linoleic acid (0.1-10 mM). These differences in feeding behavior suggest that generalizations concerning hookworm biology must be interpreted cautiously.

Lipid changes in the infective third-stage larvae of Ancylostoma tubaeforme following measured periods of activity have been quantified. ‘Excessive’ activity (more than 16 activity regimes, or 8 h in neostigmine bromide) resulted in a significant (> 10%) depletion of the lipid reserves, especially from the anterior region of the intestine.

At autopsy of 230 adult stray cats, 120 from backyards and 110 from gardens, the intestinal tract was scrutinized for helminths. The prevalence of Toxocara cati, Taenia taeniaeformis and Dipylidium caninum was found to be 79%, 11% and 14%, respectively. Comparisons were made with the results of previous Danish investigations. The prevalence of Toxocara cati was found to be independent of time of collection and the sex and habitat of the cats and identical in cats with or without Taenia. This indicates that paratenic hosts do not play an important epizootiological role in the transmission of T. cati. The intensity of Toxocara per cat followed a negative binomial pattern. The high prevalence of T. cati combined with most cats having a low wormload shows that the cat population generally possesses a high degree of resistance against superimposed infections. The intensity of male Toxocara increases with the size of the worm population. This we consider to be an expression of increasing susceptibility of the cats. The prevalence of T. taeniaeformis was significantly higher in garden cats, due to their greater opportunity for catching mice. D. caninum, however, was significantly more frequent in backyard cats, probably owing to better living condition for the flea larvae in backyards. For both T. taeniaeformis and D. caninum a higher frequency was found in female cats, which is thought to be associated with their care for the kittens.

Larvae of the cat hookworm, Ancylostoma tubaeforme migrate from the skin to the lungs of both mice and cats. Experiments have examined changes in the basic movement patterns of infective larvae after as long as 5 days within host tissues. Similarly, morphological developments and changes in unbound neutral lipid were investigated. There were no changes in the larvae except for a fall in the concentrations of lipid. Furthermore, it was found that larvae which had successfully completed a migration from the skin of a mouse to its lungs could successfully complete a second migration. The evidence does not support the hypothesis that a distinct series of tissues cr physico-chemical barriers may be sequentially followed in the migration of hookworms in their hosts. The migration route is seen as a much more random, less purposeful series of events.