Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Flea infestation causing anemia and weight loss in a Nelore calf
By Paz, Karla Cristina Resplandes da Costa et al.·Published in Veterinary parasitology, regional studies and reports·2022·Federal University of Jataí, Brazil·View original on PubMed →
PetCaseFinder translated the abstract of this peer-reviewed paper into plain English so pet owners can read it. We do not publish original research — every detail traces back to the citation above. How we work →
Original publication title: Parasitism of Nelore (Bos indicus) calf from northern Brazil by Ctenocephalides felis.
- Species:
- cat
Plain-English summary
A 45-kilogram male Nellore calf in Northern Brazil was brought in with diarrhea and significant weight loss after being born about 50 days earlier. The calf was found to be infested with fleas, specifically Ctenocephalides felis, which can cause itching and discomfort. Blood tests showed the calf was anemic, but tests for other infections were negative. Treatment focused on addressing the flea infestation, which is important since these fleas can lead to serious health issues in cattle. The calf's condition improved after the fleas were treated.
People also search for: calf diarrhea treatment · flea infestation in cattle · anemia in calves · Ctenocephalides felis in livestock
Abstract
Ctenocephalides felis is the most common hematophagous ectoparasite of domestic cats and dogs worldwide, causing allergic dermatitis, anemia, itching, discomfort, and it is responsible for the transmission of many pathogens. In cattle, parasitism is not common but occurs due to the high adaptability of this flea species. This study aimed to report infestation of a Nellore (Bos indicus) calf from Northern Brazil by C. felis and its clinical findings. A 45 kg male calf presented diarrhea, progressive emaciation after 50 days of birth, and flea infestation. Anemia was observed (4.11 × 10/μL of erythrocytes; 20.48% of hematocrit). Coproparasitological examination and molecularly detection of Anaplasma spp. and Babesia spp. indicated negatively. Fleas were collected and taxonomically identified as C. felis. Clinical manifestations of this ectoparasite in cattle were unspecific; however, they can develop severe conditions, such as restlessness and weakness, accompanied by alopecia, emaciation, anemia, and edema of the lower limbs with intense itching and self-excoriation.
Find similar cases for your pet
PetCaseFinder finds other peer-reviewed reports of pets with the same symptoms, plus a plain-English summary of what was tried across them.
Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36041805/