Cryptosporidium spp. in dogs and cats in Poland.

INTRODUCTION

Cryptosporidium spp. are common protozoan parasites of animals and humans. Due to their zoonotic potential it is important to know their species and prevalence in dogs and cats.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to determine the occurrence and molecular characteristics of Cryptosporidium spp. in dogs and cats in Poland.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

A total of 365 faecal samples (264 dogs and 101 cats) collected from animals living in Poland were analyzed using the Ziehl-Neelsen staining method and genus-specific PCR assay to amplify the Cryptosporidium 18S rRNA gene.

RESULTS

Cryptosporidium were found in 11 out of the 365 examined stool samples (3%). PCR analysis identified Cryptosporidium in 9 out of 264 canine stool samples (3.4%) and 2 out of 101 feline specimens (2%). DNA sequencing confirmed the presence of C. canis and C. parvum in dogs and C. felis in cats.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first molecular characterization of Cryptosporidium spp. infection in dogs and cats in Poland.