Toxocara cati

Toxocara cati is a species of parasitic roundworm that is a common infectious agent in cats. It is one of the causes of the condition known as toxocariasis in humans, particularly affecting children who come into contact with contaminated soil or cat feces. This roundworm is capable of infecting the host's liver, lungs, heart, and brain, leading to a variety of health issues.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Toxocara cati begins when eggs are excreted in the feces of an infected cat. These eggs must then mature in the environment for several weeks before they become infectious. Once mature, the eggs can infect other cats, humans, and a variety of other animals when ingested. In the definitive feline host, the larvae hatch, migrate to the lungs, are coughed up and swallowed, and then mature into adult worms in the intestine. Adult worms can reach up to 10 cm in length.

Transmission

Toxocara cati is primarily transmitted to cats through the ingestion of infective eggs from the environment, consumption of infected rodents, or, less commonly, through the milk of an infected mother to her kittens. Humans can become accidental hosts by ingesting infective eggs from contaminated soil or hands.

Symptoms and Treatment

In cats, Toxocara cati infection can lead to a condition known as larva migrans. Symptoms in cats may include vomiting, diarrhea, a dull coat, and a pot-bellied appearance. In severe cases, especially in kittens, the infection can be fatal.

In humans, Toxocara cati can cause visceral larva migrans, a condition where the larvae migrate through various organs, including the liver and lungs, and ocular larva migrans, affecting the eyes. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and include fever, fatigue, coughing, asthma, and visual disturbances.

Treatment for Toxocara cati infection involves the use of anthelmintic drugs. In cats, routine deworming is recommended to control infection. In humans, treatment may include anthelmintics and supportive care depending on the severity of the infection.

Prevention

Prevention of Toxocara cati infection involves regular deworming of cats, proper disposal of cat feces, and avoiding contact with soil that may be contaminated with cat feces. Washing hands thoroughly after handling cats or working in gardens can also reduce the risk of infection.

Epidemiology

Toxocara cati is a global parasite, with infections reported in cats and humans worldwide. The prevalence of infection is higher in areas with large feral cat populations and where cats are not regularly dewormed.

Public Health Impact

The public health impact of Toxocara cati is significant due to its potential to cause serious illness in humans, particularly children. Public education on the risks associated with toxocariasis and the importance of preventive measures is crucial to reduce the incidence of infection.

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