Real-time PCR investigation of potential vectors, reservoirs, and shedding patterns of feline hemotropic mycoplasmas

Fleas, ticks, rodents and saliva from infected cats were investigated for the presence of hemotropic mycoplasmas to understand potential transmission routes for these agents. The results indicate that apart from an indirect transmission by fleas, direct transmission through saliva and feces could play a role in the epizootiology of feline hemotropic mycoplasmas.