Infection of Bartonella spp. and Rickettsia spp. pathogens in cats’ fleas (Siphonaptera)

Abstract

Fleas are blood-sucking ectoparasites of mammals and birds. Fleas may infest new hosts and change hosts during short contact with animals. Bartonella spp. and Rickettsia spp. are vector-borne bacteria causing zoonotic diseases. Cat fleas are vector for transsmision of the infection agents among cats and human. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of Bartonella and Rickettsia infections in cats’ fleas. A total 102 fleas representing two species (Ctenocephalides felis, Ct. canis) were collected from cats. Bartonella DNA in samples was detected using a nested-PCR of the 16S-23S rRNR ITS region gene. Rickettsia DNA in samples was detected using a nested-PCR of the gltA gene. Positive PCR products were selected for DNA sequencing. Bartonella species were detected in 20.6% tested fleas. Rickettsia species were detected in 22.5% tested fleas. B. henselae, B. clarridgeiae, R. felis, R. raoultii and R. helvetica were found in infected fleas