A Survey of Ectoparasites in Domestic Cats in Lafia Metropolis, Nasarawa State, Nigeria

Abstract

Pets are maintained for pleasure, enjoyment and companionship instead of their utility. They may harbor many ectoparasites, such as ticks, fleas, and mites. Various ectoparasites cause significant infestations in pet animals. A cross - sectional survey of ectoparasites in cats in Lafia metropolis was carried out from August to October 2023 in markets, restaurants, and selected homes. Physical examination was performed on 205 cats. Ectoparasites were collected by combing through the entire body of the cats, and hand picking with the help of a forceps. An overall prevalence of 44.39% was recorded. According to the collection sites, the prevalence of infestation, the prevalence of homes had the highest infestation rate (59.34%), followed by markets (37.8%) and restaurants (29.0%). The examined cats were found to be infested with a total of 91 ectoparasites, out of which they were classified into four species: Ctenocephalides felis 31(34.1%), Demodex cati 25(27.47%), Sarcoptes scabies 21(23.08%), and Rhipicephalus sanguineus 14(15.38%). The analysis revealed a significant difference in the infestation rate across the locations (X²=30.599, df=2, p<0.0001). Female cats had highest prevalence (62.6%) compared to male cats with the prevalence (37.3%) and there was no significant variation (X² = 6.3504, df = 1, p = 0.01174). Savanah breed of cats recorded the highest prevalence (75.9%) and Siamese had the least prevalence (28.3%). There was a highly significant difference (X² = 10.786 df = 4, p<0.2908). Ectoparasite infestations observed among cats in this study is high which indicates that cats may harbor zoonotic related diseases. Extensive public education about cat related zoonotic diseases is needed to create awareness among the public and minimize the risk of disease transmission in this area.