An Overview of Management Considerations for Mongolian Gerbils (<i>Meriones unguiculatus</i>), Cats (<i>Felis catus</i>), and Dogs (<i>Canis familiaris</i>) as Hosts for <i>Brugia</i> Infection.

Abstract

Lymphatic filariasis is a mosquito-borne parasitic infection affecting an estimated 51.4 million people. <i>Brugia malayi</i> and <i>Brugia pahangi</i> are used in research because common nonprimate research species such as Mongolian gerbils (<i>Meriones unguiculatus</i>), cats (<i>Felis catus</i>), and dogs (<i>Canis familiaris</i>) can maintain the life cycle of these species of filarial nematodes. Although overall care and management of animals infected with <i>Brugia</i> spp. is relatively straightforward, there are some unique challenges and special considerations that must be addressed when managing a research colony infected with these parasites. In this review, we discuss our experience, share insight into biosafety and clinical management, and describe the expected clinical signs associated with <i>Brugia</i> infection in gerbils, cats, and dogs.