Prevalence and factors associated with fecal shedding of Giardia spp. in domestic cats.
The prevalence of cats shedding Giardia cysts (13.6%) in the present study was found to be higher than previously reported (1% to 11%) and may reflect a higher sensitivity for the diagnostic test used. The presence of Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts, coccidial oocysts, and a clinical history of chronic (>2 weeks) gastrointestinal signs were significantly associated with the presence of Giardia spp. cysts in the feces. There were no associations between the presence of Giardia spp. cysts and type of housing, acute gastrointestinal signs, vomiting, gender, source of cat (i.e., animal shelter versus private breeder), or gastrointestinal parasites other than Cryptosporidium spp. and intestinal coccidial agents.
Vasilopulos
Robert J
RJ
Department of Clinical Science, College of Veterinary Medicine, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, Mississippi 39762-6100, USA.
Mackin
Andrew J
AJ
Rickard
Lora G
LG
Pharr
G Todd
GT
Huston
Carla L
CL
D000818:Animals; D000913:Antibodies, Protozoan / Q000032:analysis / Q000378:metabolism; D002371:Cat Diseases / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000469:parasitology*; D002415:Cats; D005243:Feces / Q000469:parasitology*; D005260:Female; D019085:Fluorescent Antibody Technique, Direct / Q000662:veterinary; D005872:Giardia / Q000302:isolation & purification* / Q000472:pathogenicity; D005873:Giardiasis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000662:veterinary*; D016015:Logistic Models; D008297:Male; D015995:Prevalence; D012307:Risk Factors
D000913:Antibodies, Protozoan