Toxocara cati

A parasitic roundworm of cats

Toxocara cati is a parasitic roundworm that primarily infects cats. It is one of the most common helminths found in domestic cats and can also infect other felids. This parasite is of significant veterinary importance and can also pose a zoonotic risk to humans.

Morphology

Toxocara cati is a large, white, cylindrical worm. Adult females can measure up to 10 cm in length, while males are slightly smaller. The worms have a distinctive appearance with three prominent lips at the anterior end, which they use to attach to the host's intestinal wall.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Toxocara cati involves several stages:

• Eggs are passed in the feces of infected cats.
• In the environment, the eggs become embryonated and develop into infective larvae.
• Cats become infected by ingesting these eggs or by consuming paratenic hosts such as rodents that harbor the larvae.
• Once ingested, the larvae hatch in the cat's intestine and migrate through the tissues before returning to the intestine to mature into adults.

Pathogenesis

Infected cats may show signs of gastrointestinal distress, including vomiting, diarrhea, and a pot-bellied appearance. Heavy infections can lead to intestinal obstruction. In young kittens, the parasite can cause significant health issues due to their developing immune systems.

Zoonotic Potential

Toxocara cati can infect humans, leading to a condition known as toxocariasis. Humans become infected by ingesting embryonated eggs from contaminated soil or surfaces. The larvae can migrate through human tissues, causing visceral larva migrans or ocular larva migrans, which can lead to serious health complications.

Prevention and Control

Preventing Toxocara cati infections involves regular deworming of cats, especially kittens, and maintaining good hygiene practices to reduce environmental contamination. Pet owners should ensure that litter boxes are cleaned regularly and that children are taught to wash their hands after playing outside.

Related pages

• Toxocara canis
• Ascaridida
• Zoonosis

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  Toxocara cati