Toxoplasma gondii Infection in Stray Cats

Abstract

Background: Cat as definitive host of Toxoplasma gondii is important in the epidemiology of toxoplasmosis. The object of this study was to determine the seroprevalence of T. gondii as well as parasite isolation from faeces and brain tissues of stray cats in Kashan, central Iran. Methods: The prevalence of T. gondii was determined in serum, feces and brain tissue of 50 stray cats. IgG specific antibody to T. gondii was assessed by indirect fluorecent antibody test (IFAT). Results: Overall infection rate was 86% in 1:20 to1:640 titers. The highest percentage (22%) was for 1:160 and the least (6%) were for 1: 640. T. gondii tissue cyst isolated from 2(4%) cats by bioassay in mice. No oocysts detected from cat stool by direct and concentration methods. Conclusion: This study showed that the prevalence of T. gondii in stray cats is high in Kashan region.

Keywords

• Toxoplasma gondii
• Cats
• Iran