A survey on the gastrointestinal parasites of exotic companion species in Tehran, Iran

Abstract

Exotic pet owners, ranging from small mammals to reptiles, comprise a considerable portion of veterinary clients. Parasitic infections are a threat both for the animal health and the health of the owner. This study aimed to investigate the gastrointestinal parasite species commonly encountered in exotic animal veterinary practice. Exotic pets’ fecal samples were examined for fecal parasites macroscopically and microscopically by saline fecal smears, fecal floatation and specific staining. Chi-squared test to investigate the association between the presence and type of the parasites with host species and clinical symptoms (p 0.05). Considering the continuous species alteration, the unidentified sources of the pets in the market, and the potential of zoonotic infections periodical surveys on the common pet species and their parasitic infection are inevitable. Subclinical intestinal parasites in pet animals may alter the well-being of the companion animal if adjoined with poor management. Usually there is no need for anti-parasitic therapy in an animal without clinical signs, but regular diagnostic tests for parasites are advisable for effective veterinary practice.

Keywords

• companion animals
• helminths
• eimeria
• cryptosporidium
• exotic pet