[Climatic condition and airborne microorganisms in wild cat housing]

The aim of the present study was to obtain information to improve the environmental conditions in enclosures for cats of prey. There was a large variation in indoor temperature, relative humidity, concentration of airborne ammonia and microorganisms during the year. The ascertained concentrations of airborne microorganisms distinguished between the different housing systems and ranged between 7177 and 15,835 KBE/m3. The concentration correlated negatively with the temperature outside of the buildings, while the amount of each compound, especially the gram positive cocci and rods, was influenced by the microclimate of the stables. The gram negative germs covered only 4.5 to 7.5%. Therefore the gram positive microorganisms were predominant. Part of the primary pathogen germs was low and amounted below 1%. There was now risks for visitors to get an infectious disease caused by the zoo animals.