Diagnostic study of trypanosomiasis of cats in Mosul, Iraq.

Background: Trypanosomiasis is a zoonotic parasitic disease endemic in Iraq but with limited information about its occurrence in cats.

Aim: This study was designed to detect spp. in cats using microscopic examination by Giemsa stain and conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique in Mosul, Iraq.

Methods: A total of 120 blood samples from cats were microscopically examined using Giemsa stain. Only 35 positive blood samples were examined by the conventional PCR technique. Hematological changes were also reported.

Results: The infection rate of spp was 34.2% (41 out of 120). Results of conventional PCR technique for the positive 35 blood samples indicated 31.4% as spp. and 20% . This study showed that the infection in younger cats was significantly more than in older cats, with significant differences between females and males. Affected cats suffered from fever, dullness, pale mucous membranes, emaciation, muco-purulent ocular discharge, anorexia, incoordination, and anemia. Results of the blood picture indicated increase in total leukocyte count and decrease in hemoglobin concentration, packed cell volume, and total red blood cells.

Conclusion: spp. and infection in Mosul of Iraq is reported for the first time in cats, and younger cats were more affected than older cats.