Prevalence of ectoparasites in pet animals in Palpa, Nepal

Pet animals (dog, cat and rabbit) are kept for pleasure, enjoyment and companionship instead of their utility. They harbor many ectoparasites (tick, flea, mite) which have public health significance in developing countries. A cross sectional study was conducted to determine the prevalence of ectoparasites on pet animals of Tansen Municipality of Palpa, Nepal. A total of 134 pet animals (cats, dogs and rabbits) were screened for ectoparasites, and semi-structured questionnaire were asked to get information regarding management practices (knowledge, attitude and practice of ectoparasite infestation) by owner. The ectoparasites were collected by hand picking and preserved in labelled vials containing 70% ethanol. A total of ninety-two (68.7%) pet animals were found to be infested with one or more ectoparasites. Among the pet animals examined, 73.9% (65/88), 58.3% (21/36) and 60% (6/10) were dogs, cats and rabbits respectively were found infected with ectoparasites. Four ectoparasite species were detected, of which one was tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus), two were fleas (Ctenocephalides canis, C. felis) and, one was louse (Linognathus setosus). Comparison of overall prevalence of ectoparasites among pet animals indicated that dogs were more susceptible to ectoparasite infestation. Only few of the respondents knew about the ectoparasites and diseases caused by them. The present study determined that high prevalence of parasites, and the low level of public awareness is the fundamental reason behind pet related zoonotic disease. Extensive public education about pet related zoonoses is needed to create awareness in public and to reduce the risk of harboring zoonotic diseases of public health importance.