Case of toxocariasis in a cat presented to a private veterinary clinic

Abstract

In this study, a case of zoonotic toxocariasis seen in a cat brought to a private veterinary clinic is presented. The case data were obtained from a 2.5 kg male tabby feline, aged 6 months, who was presented to a private veterinary clinic. Following the examination of the cat, vomiting was observed as a side effect of the anaesthetic administered during the eye removal surgery. Macroscopic parasites were detected in the stomach contents. In order to identify the species, the parasite was placed in a tube filled with 70% alcohol. The Toxocara cati species was later identified microscopically at the Parasitology laboratory of Selçuk University Faculty of Veterinary Medicine. Our case report contains useful information since toxocariasis infection in cats is rarely seen in the stomach contents and has zoonotic importance. This case is presented with the hope of raising awareness, especially among veterinarians working in animal hospitals and small animal clinics.