Urinary capillariosis in a cat from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil - Clinical, morphological and phylogenetic...

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Parasitology
• Feline Medicine
• Molecular Diagnostics

Background:

• Urinary tract infections caused by Capillaria spp. are infrequent in domestic carnivores.
• These infections are often asymptomatic and challenging to diagnose.
• Limited research exists on the prevalence and phylogenetic diversity of Capillaria spp. in domestic cats.

Observation:

• A seven-year-old female cat presented with apathy and decreased appetite.
• Urinalysis detected Capillaria plica eggs and indicators of cystitis, including bacteria, pyuria, proteinuria, and hematuria.
• The cat was treated with fenbendazole.

Findings:

• Molecular analysis using 18S rRNA gene sequencing confirmed the presence of Capillaria sp.
• This case provides evidence of Capillaria infection in a feline from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
• The study successfully identified the causative agent through PCR and sequencing.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of considering Capillaria infections in feline urological diagnostics.
• Further phylogenetic studies are crucial to identify different Capillaria species affecting cats globally.
• Understanding feline pathogenesis associated with Capillaria spp. is essential for improved treatment and prevention strategies.