Diagnostic study OF Trypanosomiasis in cats in mosul city ,iraq

Background: Trypanosoma is a zoonotic parasite endemic in the Iraq but limited information about infections in cats. The parasite infection a wide range of mammalian, Cats play a major role of outbreaks of parasite. Aim: This study designed to detection of Trypanosoma spp. in the cats using microscopic examination by Giemsa stain and conventional PCR technique in Mosul city, Iraq this study is the first detected of Trypanosoma spp. and Trypanosoma evansi in cats in Mosul city, Iraq. Methods: The 120 samples of blood were microscopically examined by using blood smears stained with Giemsa , A 35 blood samples which positive microscopically were examined by conventional PCR technique and Hematological changes were also recorded. Results: The infections rate of Trypanosoma spp. was 34.2% (35 out of 120). Results of Conventional Polymerase Chain reaction technique for 35 blood samples positive microscopically indicated 31.4 %. Trypanosoma spp. and 20% Trypanosoma evansi. This study showed that the infection in the younger cats were significantly more affected than the older cats with significant differences between the Females and Males. Affected cats suffered from fever, dullness, pale mucous membranes, emaciation, muco-purulent ocular discharge, anorexia, incoordination and anemia. Results of blood picture indicated to increase in total leukocyte count and decrease in hemoglobin concentration, packed cell volume and Total red blood cells (TRBC). Conclusion: Cats was affected by Trypanosoma spp. and Trypanosoma evansi infection in Mosul city –Iraq was reported for the first time in cats, younger cats more affected than the older cats.