Ticks and flies as vectors of Bartonella spp., Mycoplasma spp. and Rickettsia spp. pathogens in cats

Abstract

The presence of companion animals alongside humans can introduce feline ectoparasites such as ticks and fleas and the associated feline vector-borne pathogens they carry into our shared environment. Domestic cats, being vulnerable to infestation by these ectoparasites, can serve as potential transmitters of diseases to humans. Despite their asymptomatic nature, feline vector-borne pathogens warrant urgent investigation, often being overlooked as diagnosis typically relies on presumptive assessments based on the animals’ exposure to catoparasites. Monitoring the prevalence of these pathogens can serve as an early warning system for outbreaks, facilitating timely intervention. This study assessed the infection of domestic cats and their ectoparasites with vector-borne pathogens - Bartonella spp., Mycoplasmaspp. and Rickettsia spp., identifying strains and genetic diversity through molecular techniques. This study marks the first identification of two causative agents of cat scratch disease, B. henselae and B. clarridgeiae and ruminant-associated Bartonella sp., haemotropic Mycoplasma bacteria - M. haemofelis and ‘Ca. M. haematominutum’ and diverse Rickettsia pathogens - human pathogenic R. helvetica, R. conorii subsp. raoultiiand R. felis, in domestic cats and their ectoparasites in Lithuania