Internal and external parasites prevalence of domestic cats in Konya province

Parasites such as helminths, protozoa and ectoparasites pose a threat to animal and human health by causing clinical diseases and transmitting potentially infectious pathogens. This study aimed to evaluate parasitic diseases in domestic cats brought to Selcuk University Veterinary Faculty Animal Hospital (SUVFAH) between 2015 and 2021. In this context, a total of 823 samples, including 743 cat faeces and 85 cat skin samples sent to the laboratory of the Department of Parasitology were examined. In the study, 37.56% (311/828) of domestic cats were found to be infected with at least one parasite species, and single (43.67%), double (2.81%), and triple (0.27%) mixed internal parasite infections were determined. Giardia duodenalis 34.72% (258/743), Isospora spp. 3.36% (25/743) and Entamoeba histolitica 0.27% (2/743) of the protozoa; Toxocara spp. 1.62% (12/743), Joyeuxiella spp. 1.08% (8/743) and Dipylidium caninum 0.27% (2/743) of the nematodes. Otodectes cynotis, the only ectoparasite species, was detected in 1.7% (2/85). Although the cats whose faeces and skin samples were examined were owned house cats, it was observed that the rates of internal and external parasites were high. Pet owners should take responsibility to prevent parasite infestations in pets. Especially indoor cats with access to the street can be a source of many parasitic agents with zoonotic properties. Domestic cats should be regularly examined by a veterinarian and antiparasitic applications should be made regularly.