Prevalence of Trypanosoma spp. in domestic and stray cats in Mymensingh, Bangladesh

Abstract

Background: Trypanosoma spp. infection is a significant disease affecting both humans and animals, including cats. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of Trypanosoma spp. in domestic and stray cats in the Mymensingh district, Bangladesh.

Methods: A total of 36 blood samples were collected from cats (16 males and 20 females), prepared as thin blood smears, and examined under a microscope at the Department of Parasitology, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, Bangladesh.

Results: Out of the 36 samples, 3 (8.00%) were infected with Trypanosoma spp. Both young cats (<1 year old) and adult cats (>1 year) had an equal infection rate of 8.33% with Trypanosoma spp. The odds of infection were 1.66 times higher in females (10.0%) than in males (6.25%). Trypanosoma spp. was prevalent throughout the year, with rates of 7.6%, 8.33%, and 9.1% during the summer, rainy, and winter seasons, respectively. The odds of infection were 1.1 times higher in the rainy season compared to the summer, and 1.2 times higher in the winter season compared to the summer.

Conclusion: This study suggests that Trypanosoma spp. infection in domestic and stray cats is a persistent issue regardless of age, sex, or season.