Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Giardia parasite types found in pet dogs and cats in Poland
By Piekara-Stępińska, Agnieszka et al.·Published in Acta parasitologica·2021·Department of Internal Medicine and Clinic of Diseases of Horses·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Genotypes of Giardia duodenalis in Household Dogs and Cats from Poland.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A study found that Giardia duodenalis, a parasite that can affect both pets and humans, was present in about 6% of dog fecal samples and 3.9% of cat fecal samples tested in Poland. Young dogs under one year old had the highest rates of infection. The researchers identified specific types of the parasite in dogs and cats, some of which can be transmitted to humans. This information is important for pet owners to be aware of, as it highlights the need for good hygiene and regular veterinary check-ups to prevent the spread of this parasite.
People also search for: dog diarrhea Giardia treatment · cat parasite symptoms · how to prevent Giardia in pets
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Giardia duodenalis is a widespread protozoan parasite affecting humans and many species of animals, including dogs and cats. Due to its zoonotic potential, it is important to know the frequency of this parasite in companion animals. The aim of this study was to determine current epidemiological status of G. duodenalis in household dogs and cats. METHODS: In this study, 293 fecal samples from pet dogs and cats were collected from January 2017 to July 2019 and tested for G. duodenalis by PCR (using β-giardin gene). The animals were divided into groups depending on their age, breed and fecal consistency. RESULTS: The examination allowed for detection of G. duodenalis in 6.0% of canine and 3.9% of feline fecal samples. The highest frequency was revealed in young (under one-year old) dogs. Sequencing confirmed the presence of assemblages C and D in dogs and A and F in cats. CONCLUSION: The study showed current frequency of G. duodenalis in dogs and cats and also revealed the occurrence of host-specific assemblages as well as zoonotic assemblage A.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33040220/