Molecular detection of Mycoplasma haemofelis in cats infested with Ctenocephalides felis in Padang, West Sumatra, Indonesia.

BACKGROUND

Mycoplasma haemofelis infection is considered an important feline disease and is suspected to be transmitted via the ectoparasitic vector Ctenocephalides felis, particularly in tropical areas.

AIM: This study aimed to detect M. haemofelis at the molecular level in cats naturally infested with C. felis in Padang City, West Sumatra, Indonesia.

METHODS

A total of 61 cats were examined to assess their clinical condition and flea infestation levels, followed by blood sampling for polymerase chain reaction analysis targeting the 16S rRNA gene of M. haemofelis.

RESULTS

The PCR results revealed a high prevalence of infection (72.13%; 44/61). The level of flea infestation was positively associated with the frequency of M. haemofelis infection, with rates of 40.0%, 60.0%, and 83.3% in mild, moderate, and severe infestations, respectively. Statistical analysis revealed a significant association (p < 0.05) between flea infestation level and infection status. Cats kept in multi-cat households were more frequently infected than those kept in single-cat households. No significant associations were found between infection occurrence and age, sex, or maintenance pattern.

CONCLUSION

A high prevalence of M. haemofelis was detected in cats infested with C. felis in Padang City, with a significant association with flea infestation level and housing pattern.