Molecular prevalence of feline vector-borne diseases (FVBD) in western Türkiye

This study aimed to determine the molecular prevalence of tick-, mosquito-, and sand fly-borne pathogens in domestic cat populations across this region and evaluate the role of host-vector interactions. A total of 277 whole blood samples were collected from domestic and stray cats across five provinces (Aydın, İzmir, Manisa, Muğla, and Denizli) in the Western Aegean Region of Türkiye. Samples were screened using specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays targeting Babesia spp., Ehrlichia spp., Leishmania infantum/L. donovani, Dirofilaria immitis, and Hepatozoon spp. Hepatozoon spp. was the sole pathogen detected, with an overall molecular prevalence of 18.1% (50/277). Significant regional variation was observed; the highest positivity rates were recorded in coastal provinces like İzmir (25.4%) and Aydın (24.2%), while the lowest was in inland Manisa (5.6%). A statistically significant correlation was observed between geographic location and infection positivity (p = 0.026). All 277 samples tested negative for Babesia, Ehrlichia, Leishmania, and Dirofilaria immitis. This study revealed a high prevalence of Hepatozoon infection among free-roaming cats in western Türkiye. The dominance of Hepatozoon spp. alongside the complete absence of detectable saliva and vector-transmitted pathogens highlights a behavioral paradox: feline grooming effectively removes vectors but facilitates the ingestion of infected ticks. The high prevalence of Hepatozoon spp. underscores the necessity of incorporating PCR-based molecular diagnostics in routine clinical practice and implementing strict ectoparasite control measures, particularly in shelter environments.