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Leptospira Infections in Cats-What Do We Know?
1Department of Bacteriology and Bacterial Animal Diseases, National Veterinary Research Institute, 57 Partyzantów, 24-100 Puławy, Poland.
Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)
|May 27, 2026
Summary
Cats may be important carriers of Leptospira infections, despite previously being considered low-risk. Recent evidence suggests increased feline infections, highlighting their potential role in disease transmission and the need for further research.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Infectious Diseases
- Zoonoses
- Microbiology
Background:
- Feline Leptospira infections were historically considered rare, with cats thought to be less susceptible.
- Cats' close contact with rodents, a primary reservoir for Leptospira, raises questions about their role.
- The One Health approach emphasizes understanding zoonotic diseases in companion animals like cats.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current data on the incidence and pathogenesis of Leptospira infections in cats.
- To evaluate the potential epidemiological role of cats in Leptospira transmission.
- To explore the implications for environmental contamination and zoonotic disease spread.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of published studies on feline Leptospira infections.
- Analysis of data on antibody prevalence, pathogen detection (DNA, viable bacteria), and clinical cases.
- Synthesis of information regarding host susceptibility, pathogenesis, and transmission dynamics.
Main Results:
- Increasing evidence suggests a higher prevalence of Leptospira antibodies and infections in cats than previously recognized.
- Isolation of Leptospira DNA and viable spirochetes from feline samples indicates active infection.
- Clinical cases of leptospirosis in cats are being reported, though evidence remains limited.
Conclusions:
- Cats may act as incidental hosts or asymptomatic carriers of Leptospira, contributing to environmental contamination.
- Feline leptospirosis warrants further investigation due to potential zoonotic implications and the One Health context.
- Understanding feline susceptibility and their role in transmission is crucial for controlling zoonotic spread.
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