Issue number 26.2 Other Scientific
Feline vector-borne diseases
Published 12/03/2021
Also available in Français , Deutsch , Italiano and Español
By comparison with diseases transmitted to dogs by hematophagous (blood-feeding) arthropods, veterinarians appear to be relatively unaware about the global importance of feline vector-borne diseases (FVBD). However, with greater understanding of FVBD, it should come as no surprise that many of the factors responsible for emerging infectious diseases in canines and humans are also relevant to our feline patients.
Key points
Arthropod-transmitted pathogens are a significant cause of emerging infectious disease in cats, with pet travel, periurban development, outdoor lifestyle, and climate change all being contributory factors.
Recent improvements in diagnostic testing have helped to improve knowledge of feline vector-borne diseases (FVBD).
Chronic, concurrent, and immunomodulatory diseases may cause recrudescence of FVBD.
An awareness of vector-borne disease is necessary when considering blood transfusion in cats.
Some FVBD have zoonotic implications, and veterinarians must remain vigilant.
Regular application of ectoparasiticides is the key to controlling FVBD.
Introduction
By comparison with diseases transmitted to dogs by hematophagous (blood-feeding) arthropods, veterinarians appear to be relatively unaware about the global importance of feline vector-borne diseases (FVBD) 1. However, with greater understanding of FVBD, it should come as no surprise that many of the factors responsible for emerging infectious diseases in canines and humans are also relevant to our feline patients. Whenever a blood transfusion for a client’s cat is required, or a feline patient presents with unexplained fever, anemia or thrombocytopenia, the clinician should always consider the possibility of a blood-borne, arthropod-transmitted infection. This brief review aims to provide veterinary practitioners with an insight to the key issues pertaining to the distribution, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of FVBD.
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