Sporotrichosis Incidence and Risk Factors in Cats in Thonburi District, Bangkok, Thailand: A Retrospective Study

Background: Sporotrichosis is a zoonotic fungal infection caused by the Sporothrix species and is a growing concern in feline populations due to its potential for transmission to humans. In Thailand, data on the incidence and associated risk factors remain limited, particularly in urban areas such as Bangkok. Aim: This study aimed to investigate the incidence and potential risk factors of feline sporotrichosis in Thonburi District, Bangkok, Thailand, from 2018 to 2024. Methods: A retrospective review of clinical records was conducted at a veterinary clinic in Thonburi. Among 1,030 cats examined, 22 cases of sporotrichosis were confirmed through cytological examination. Data collected included sex, neuter status, age, husbandry system, FeLV/FIV infection status, and blood parasite infections. Statistical analysis using the Chi-square test was performed to identify significant associations between infections and risk factors. Results: The incidence of sporotrichosis was 2.14%. Infected cats were evenly distributed between sexes, with 68.18% being unneutered. All infected cats were domestic shorthairs raised in open systems. Clinical signs included ulcerative skin lesions, sneezing, nasal swelling, anorexia, and dehydration. Co-infection with FeLV, FIV, and Mycoplasma spp. was common. Significant associations were found between sporotrichosis and FeLV, FIV, and Mycoplasma spp. infections (P<0.001). Follow-up data from five treated cats showed complete recovery within six months using itraconazole, with no recurrence after one year. Conclusion: Feline sporotrichosis in Thonburi is significantly associated with open-system housing and immunosuppressive viral infections. Effective treatment is possible but requires long-term owner compliance. Preventive strategies should include public education on closed-system cat care and early diagnosis. These findings support the relevance of a One Health approach in managing zoonotic fungal diseases in urban settings.