First Recording of Isospora spp. in dogs and cats in Basra Governorate

Isospora spp are protozoa coccidian parasites from the phylum Apicomplexa found in the small intestine in hosts (dogs and cats). The aim of this study was to diagnose the Isospora spp infection microscopically in both dogs and cats (stray and housing), using flotation methods by Sheither solution. In the current study, a total of 130 fecal samples of dogs and cats (different in sex and ages) were collected. These animal’s samples divided into (109) cats, and (21) dogs, which were obtained from different areas of Basrah city during the period from September 2023 to April 2024. A total of infections with Isospora spp were that 9.5% for dogs and 10% for cats. The results depended on the shape, structure, and diameters of isolated oocysts under light microscopy which found oocysts of Isospora spp in dogs were distinguished by their large size and measurement. A high infection rate with Isospora spp. was observed in the Al-Fayhaa area (13.3). Monthly study analysis showed that the high infection rate occurred in February (23.8%), while September and October showed no recorded infection. In addition, the infection of Isospora spp. was high in the rural area of Basra province (13.3%). The current study demonstrated the presence of the different clinical symptoms in infected cats and dogs (dehydration, diarrhoea, fever, abdominal pain, weight loss, and vomiting). There are no significant differences in the statistical study. Through studying this research, I concluded that the parasite spreads due to differences in temperature and lack of care for the animal. Therefore, we advise the breeder to take vaccines for cats and dogs periodically and to conduct veterinary examinations.