ABSTRACT Background Rift Valley fever (RVF) is a zoonotic viral disease transmitted through mosquito bites commonly reported in low‐ to medium‐income countries such as Nigeria. It impacts livestock productivity and trade, causing abortions and high rates of mortality, particularly among young animals. Objectives A cross‐sectional study was aimed to determine the presence of RVF virus antibodies (anti‐RVFV IgG antibodies) and to identify related risk factors in small ruminants within Maiduguri Metropolis, Borno State, Nigeria. Methods Ninety‐six blood samples were collected; information on species, age and sex of the animals was recorded; history of flooding was assessed based on farmer report and observation. The study used a commercial ELISA kit (competitive, multispecies) to identify the presence of RVF virus antibodies, in accordance with the manufacturer's guidelines. Results This study established an overall seroprevalence of RVFV antibodies of 47.9% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 37.9–57.9) in small ruminants. The prevalence rate for sheep was higher (52.1%) compared to goats (43.8%). Females (68.6%), young animals (51.2%) and places flooded (68.3%) showed a higher seroprevalence. The findings indicate that age (OR: 2.4; 95% CI: 1.1–5.2), sex (OR:2.8; 95% CI: 1.2–6.2) and proximity to flood‐prone areas (OR: 2.1; 95% CI: 1.0–4.3) were significant (p ≤ 0.05) risk factors for the RVF virus. Conclusion The studies indicate previous exposure and potential epidemiological role of small ruminants in RVF virus transmission in Maiduguri Metropolis. It is recommended that regular monitoring and effective surveillance be carried out; mosquito vector populations be regulated during flooding or rainy seasons and the public be informed about the disease's impact on humans, livestock and the economy.
ABSTRACT Background Rodents are considered an important natural reservoir of many zoonotic infectious agents, including parasitic Apicomplexa. To assess the potential risk of rodent‐borne parasitic protozoa in Pakistan, the present study was designed to determine the molecular prevalence and phylogenetic characteristics of Babesia microti in blood samples collected from Rattus rattus (N = 137), Mus musculus (N = 67) and Rattus norvegicus (N = 80). Methods Rodents were trapped from seven districts of Pakistan between October 2023 and September 2024. PCR amplified a 238 bp fragment from the 18S rRNA gene of B. microti in 35 out of 284 (12%) of the screened rats and mice. DNA sequencing, BLAST and phylogenetic analysis were performed to confirm the presence and the phylogenetic similarity of the isolates. Complete blood counts were also analysed to evaluate haematological changes. Results All three rodent species were found infected with this parasite but no significant association was observed between infection status and rodent sex or species. Statistical analysis showed that the prevalence of B. microti in R. norvegicus differed significantly between the sampling sites (p = 0.01), ranging from 0% in Buner, Dera Ghazi Khan and Rajanpur to 42% in Sargodha. DNA sequencing and BLAST analysis confirmed the presence of B. microti in rodent blood samples, with 100% sequence similarity to GenBank reference sequences. Phylogenetic analysis showed that Pakistani isolates were genetically similar and clustered with the 18S rRNA nucleotide sequences that were isolated from rodents in France, Russia and Japan. B. microti‐infected rodents had disturbed total white and red blood cell counts and associated parameters. Conclusions In conclusion, we are reporting a moderate prevalence of B. microti in three wild Pakistani rodent species for the very first time. Further epidemiological studies are required to evaluate the potential zoonotic risk posed by B. microti‐infected rodents in Pakistan.
ABSTRACT A study was conducted to determine the genetic diversity of Zambian indigenous cattle using microsatellites. In Zambia, cattle provide draft power, food, manure and generate income. DNA extraction followed the Qiagen protocol, and Arlequin V3.0 was used for data analysis. 72 unrelated animals from three regions, Eastern (Angoni), Southern (Tonga) and Western (Barotse), were sampled. 315 alleles observed were higher in TGLA 263 (106 bp) with 0.861, 0.824 and 0.753, BMS650 (160 bp) with 0.710 and SPS 115 (248 bp) with 0.581, 0.710 and 0.794 for Angoni, Tonga and Barotse, respectively. Effective allele frequency was 4.521 ± 0.351, 4.246 ± 0.299 and 3.888 ± 0.289 for Angoni, Tonga and Barotse, respectively. Global deficit of heterozygotes across populations (Fit) amounted to 4.2%. Overall mean deficit of heterozygotes (Fis = 1%), genetic differentiation among breeds (Fst = 3.2%),, and genetic flow between populations (Nm = 11.3) ranged from RM 067 (40.564) to BLI (3.016). Analysis of molecular variance revealed 2.7% genetic variation among populations and 97.3% within the cattle population, with a mean genetic diversity of 0.753. Structure analysis (PCoA) demonstrated the presence of two subpopulations in which all three populations are represented and these two groups showed evidence of substructuring. In the Bayesian analysis, Tonga and Barotse populations were clustered together, while the Angoni were separated from the rest of the populations in K = 2. There was no evidence of panmixia and linkage equilibrium; the VD (9.153) value is greater than L (5.929), indicating that the population was in equilibrium. This study presents a comprehensive genetic characterisation of indigenous cattle in Zambia, which is important for further studies.
BACKGROUND:Adipsia is a rare disorder characterised by absence of thirst despite hyperosmolality, resulting from dysfunction of the hypothalamic thirst centre. In veterinary medicine, most reported cases of adipsia are associated with congenital forebrain abnormalities, whereas acquired causes in adult dogs are uncommon. CASE PRESENTATION:This report describes a 9-year-old neutered male mixed-breed dog presented with lethargy, anorexia, vomiting, recumbency, complete absence of voluntary water intake (adipsia) and intermittent tremors. Severe hypernatraemia (192 mmol/L) and hyperchloremia were identified on initial evaluation. Plasma aldosterone concentration was within the reference interval, excluding hyperaldosteronism. An ACTH stimulation test revealed hypercortisolemia, and abdominal ultrasonography demonstrated bilateral adrenal enlargement. Following controlled correction of hypernatraemia with intravenous fluid therapy, magnetic resonance imaging identified a pituitary macroadenoma occupying the sellar and suprasellar regions with mass effect toward the hypothalamus. Secondary adipsia due to hypothalamic compression was considered the most likely cause of hypernatraemia. Medical management with trilostane and cabergoline was initiated. Follow-up imaging demonstrated mild tumour reduction, and serum sodium concentrations remained stable with assisted water supplementation during nine months of follow-up. CONCLUSION:This case expands the recognised neurological manifestations of pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism and highlights pituitary macroadenoma as a potential cause of acquired adipsia and severe hypernatraemia in geriatric dogs. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION:Not applicable.
BACKGROUND:Escherichia (E.) coli is the primary cause of urinary tract infections in companion animals. OBJECTIVES:Therefore, the present study aimed to characterise antimicrobial resistance profiles, virulence-associated genes, and phylogenetic diversity of E. coli with haemolytic colony morphology isolated from urine samples of cats and dogs during routine diagnostic activities, which have not been characterised previously in Austria. METHODS:A total of 51 isolates were included from dogs (n = 32) and cats (n = 19) and characterised by a polyphasic approach, including susceptibility testing and DNA microarray-based assays. In addition, all isolates were analysed using two-locus fumC and fimH sequence typing (CH-clonotyping) and E. coli phylotyping. RESULTS:The majority of E. coli isolates belonged to phylogenetic group B2, with one isolate assigned to phylogenetic group B1. Thirty-four CH-clonotypes were detected using two-locus sequence typing. All isolates detected could be classified as ExPEC. CONCLUSIONS:The identification of clonal complexes common to humans indicates interspecies transmission, thereby emphasising the critical need for surveillance in companion animal populations.
With zoological institutions placing greater emphasis on improving animal welfare, there has been more research studying the impact of animal welfare, including correlation with increased visitors. Some studies focus on the total effect of visitor presence and behaviours impacted, whereas others highlight how noise from visitors and other events impacts animal behaviour and welfare. This scoping review was conducted to determine the impact of anthropogenic noise on animal welfare in zoological settings and identify knowledge gaps. Starting with an initial pool of 1608 articles, almost all publications in this review (n = 31) were published from 2014 to 2025, indicating the area is still a niche to be further explored. Most studies focused on mammalian species (n = 22, particularly non-human primates), followed by avian species (n = 14) and reptiles (n = 3). Increased vigilance was the most common behaviour documented (n = 9). Thirteen publications suspected a negative welfare impact, while the remaining publications either found no substantial impact, could not determine impact, or did not address welfare directly. Fourteen publications recommended improving public education, sound barriers or increasing animals' ability to choose a different location. Certain species and taxa, such as teleosts and reptiles in glass enclosures, lack representative studies on how anthropogenic noise affects their welfare. Further research that focuses on understanding the impact of noise on animal wellbeing could educate the public, allow restructure of habitats to accommodate animal needs and inform welfare assessments, which all can improve the welfare of animals in zoological settings.
A 4-year-old, male-neutered Savannah cat (Case 1) and a 3-year-old female-neutered British shorthair cat (Case 2) were each investigated for chronic coughing, lethargy and weight loss. Thoracic imaging revealed diffuse broncho-interstitial changes and multifocal soft-tissue nodules (Case 1), and two cavitating masses in the left lung (Case 2). Bronchoalveolar lavage cytology (BAL) in both cases identified macrophagic inflammation with acid-fast bacilli and was culture (Case 1) or PCR (Case 2) positive for Mycobacterium caprae. The cats were treated with 11 months (Case 1) and 9 months (Case 2) of triple antimicrobial therapy comprising pradofloxacin (5 mg/kg orally once every 24 h), rifampicin (10 mg/kg orally once every 24 h) and azithromycin (15 mg/kg orally once every 24 h). Both made complete clinical recoveries and radiographic improvement in the thoracic changes were static for 2 months prior to cessation of therapy. Both cats remain clinically well 12 and 10 months after cessation of treatment, respectively.
OBJECTIVE:This study aimed to evaluate the suitability of diets containing silages from different parts of fodder beet (FB) with or without Lactobacillus buchneri (LB) when fed to sheep. METHODS:Seven adult ruminally fistulated rams (2 years old; 74 ± 2.5 kg body weight) were randomly allocated to seven experimental diets in a changeover design. Treatments were as follows: whole FB without LB (WFB - LB); whole FB with LB (WFB + LB); FB tops without LB (FBT - LB); FB tops with LB (FBT + LB); FB bulbs without LB (FBR - LB); FB bulbs with LB (FBR + LB) and corn silage (CS) as control. RESULTS:LB inoculation did not affect silage chemical composition. FB bulb silage had lower pH than FB top silage. Dry matter intake (DMI) was highest for WFB + LB and lowest for FBT - LB (p < 0.001). Dry matter (DM) and organic matter (OM) digestibility were highest for CS and lowest for FBT - LB (p < 0.001). Ruminal pH and NH3-N concentration were highest in sheep fed whole FB silage (p < 0.001). The acetate:propionate ratio was highest in FBT + LB and FBT - LB, followed by whole FB silage. FBT + LB and FBT - LB showed higher pH and NH3-N but lower lactic acid concentration and flieg point value than other treatments. CONCLUSION:Silage made from whole FB (with or without LB) could be a promising alternative to CS for sheep, based on digestibility and rumen function parameters.
BACKGROUND:Antivenom efficacy relies on the venom antigen composition and the range of antibody cross-reactivity. This research compared the biochemical profiles of five medically relevant Iranian vipers, Gloydius caucasicus, Pseudocerastes persicus, Montivipera raddei, Echis carinatus, and Macrovipera lebetina, and compared the cross-reactivity and neutralisation efficacy of laboratory-prepared monovalent. METHODS:Venom was characterised using SDS-PAGE and reverse-phase HPLC (RP-HPLC). Monovalent antisera were raised in rabbits against each species, and a separate group was immunised with a mixture of all five venoms to produce a polyvalent antivenom. Indirect ELISA quantified homologous and heterologous binding, and in vivo assays assessed neutralisation efficacy against both homologous and heterologous venoms. RESULTS:Among the five viper species studied, G. caucasicus venom was the most toxic and that of P. persicus the least. Under non-reducing SDS-PAGE, all venoms displayed three main protein bands of approximately 20 kDa, 50 kDa and 130-150 kDa with variable intensities. Following reduction, an intense ∼15 kDa band appeared in all the samples. RP-HPLC revealed nearly identical, simple chromatograms for E. carinatus and M. raddei, a more diverse profile for M. lebetina, moderate complexity for G. caucasicus, and a distinct hydrophilic peak for P. persicus. Monovalent antivenoms showed strongest binding to homologous venoms but variable heterologous cross-reactivity, with M. raddei and P. persicus exhibiting the broadest spectra and G. caucasicus the narrowest, while the polyvalent antivenom bound broadly across all species. The antivenoms against M. lebetina and M. raddei neutralised P. persicus venom at 1.17 mg/mL and 1.07 mg/mL, respectively, while P. persicus antivenom neutralised M. raddei (0.49 mg/mL) and E. carinatus (0.66 mg/mL). G. caucasicus antivenom was only effective against its homologous venom. CONCLUSION:This study demonstrated general patterns among Iranian viper venoms, but variable LD50 values and protein compositions determine the efficiency of antivenom. Efficient neutralisation was indicated by the polyspecific antivenom in all venoms, outlining its efficacy and viability as a local antivenom control method.
BACKGROUND:Mastitis in dairy animals is a major economic and public health concern in Nepal, exacerbated by the emergence of antimicrobial-resistant pathogens. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and antibiotic resistance patterns of Staphylococcus aureus isolated from bovine milk in Bardaghat Municipality, Nepal. RESULTS:A cross-sectional survey screened 196 milk samples from lactating cows and buffaloes using the California Mastitis Test (CMT). The overall prevalence of S. aureus was 39.79%. Strikingly, 100.00% of isolates exhibited resistance to oxacillin, indicating the widespread presence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Moreover, 25.64% of isolates were multidrug-resistant (resistant to n 3 antibiotic classes), and 18% had a multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR) index > 0.2. No statistically significant associations were found between the prevalence of S. aureus and evaluated risk factors. CONCLUSIONS:These findings underscore an urgent need for improved mastitis management, including routine bacterial screening, judicious antibiotic use and public health measures to mitigate transmission of resistant S. aureus to humans.
BACKGROUND:Understanding phenotypic performance and genetic parameter estimation is important for effective genetic progress in animal breeding and genetics. The data were collected for 6 years (2018-2023) from the established village of Abergelle goat community-based breeding programme (CBBP) area in Sekota Dryland Agricultural Research Center. The investigated traits were birth weight (BWT), 3-month weight (TMWT), 6-month weight (SMWT), 9-month weight (NMWT), yearling weight (YWT), average daily weight gain from birth to 3 months (ADG1), average daily weight gain from 3 to 6 months (ADG2), average daily weight gain from 6 to 9 months (ADG3) and average daily weight gain from 9 months up to yearling age (ADG4). OBJECTIVES:To evaluate the phenotypic performance and genetic parameter estimation of growth rate traits of Abergelle goat breeds in CBBP in scale-up villages in north-eastern parts of Ethiopia. METHODS:Four univariate animal models were fitted using the average information restricted maximum likelihood (AI-REML) procedure to estimate variance components. RESULTS:The overall least square mean (LSM) ± standard error (SE) of ADG1, ADG2, ADG3 and ADG4 were 58.2 ± 2.27, 37.8 ± 2.04, 19.2 ± 0.7 and 10.5 ± 0.12 g per day, respectively. The direct heritability estimates for BWT, TMWT, SMWT, NMWT, YWT, ADG1, ADG2, ADG3 and ADG4 were 0.34 ± 0.070, 0.45 ± 0.062, 0.40 ± 0.040, 0.42 ± 0.07, 0.41 ± 0.14, 0.18 ± 0.04, 0.03 ± 0.001, 0.19 ± 0.04 and 0.19 ± 0.04, respectively. Genetic correlations among BWT, TMWT, SMWT, NMWT and YWT were in the range of 0.068-0.84 and phenotypic correlations were also in the range of 0.23-0.89. Genetic correlations for BWT was moderate and higher among SMWT, NMWT and YWT, indicating correlated responses. Thus, BWT had no strong link to later growth in Abergelle goats under CBBP scale-up village. CONCLUSION:The moderate to high direct heritability estimates indicate that selection for growth would be effective in achieving genetic improvement.
A young Blue Heeler presented for abdominal distension and weight gain, without a history of raw feeding or travel outside the western suburbs of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. Abdominal ultrasound noted innumerable small anechoic oval cystic structures scattered throughout the peritoneal cavity and suspended in a large volume of echogenic peritoneal effusion. Subsequent diagnostics, including computed tomography, exploratory laparotomy, histopathology and molecular testing, confirmed the structures were Spirometra mansoni plerocercoids, and the patient was diagnosed with proliferative sparganosis. Despite treatment, the animal's health rapidly declined and was euthanised three weeks later. The postmortem revealed extensive diffuse severe granulomatous peritonitis with fibrinous adhesions throughout the peritoneal cavity. Proliferative sparganosis is a rare and devastating parasitic condition resulting from asexual replication of Spirometra spp. larvae within body cavities or organs. This article provides a detailed diagnostic picture of canine peritoneal proliferative sparganosis and is the first report describing the ultrasonographic findings of this condition.
BACKGROUND:Fungal infections are important causes of dermatological disease in companion animals and may involve a diverse range of clinically relevant fungal pathogens. Accurate identification of the causative agent is essential for appropriate diagnosis, treatment and assessment of potential zoonotic risks. OBJECTIVES:This study aimed to characterize a fungal isolate from a canine cutaneous lesion in Tehran, Iran, using morphological, molecular and phylogenetic analyses. METHODS:Skin scrapings were aseptically collected from a dog presenting with pruritus and scaling, using sterile techniques microscopic examination and fungal culture. Microbiological observations were inconclusive for species-level identification. Hence, target isolate was subjected to PCR amplification of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region using ITS1 and ITS4 universal primers. RESULTS:The ITS1-5.8S rDNA-ITS2 region was successfully amplified and sequenced using the universal ITS1 and ITS4 primers, and the sequence was deposited in the NCBI GenBank (PV082530). BLAST analysis showed 99.36% nucleotide similarity to a reference sequence of Corynascus verrucosus. In the maximum likelihood analysis placed the Iranian isolate within the broader Corynascus lineage, clustering closely with C. verrucosus reference sequences from different geographic regions. Morphological findings, particularly large, round, verrucose conidia, supported the molecular identification. Overall, the combined morphological, molecular and phylogenetic findings supported identification as C. verrucosus. CONCLUSIONS:This case highlights the occurrence of an uncommon C. verrucosus isolate in a canine cutaneous lesion and demonstrates the value of integrating morphological, molecular, and phylogenetic approaches for fungal identification. The findings also emphasize the importance of cautious interpretation of molecular data when closely related fungal taxa show high sequence similarity.
A 5-year-old female spayed domestic long-haired cat presented with fever, lethargy and inappetence. Haematologic evaluation revealed mild neutrophilia with a regenerative left shift and moderate thrombocytopenia. A review of a peripheral blood smear identified a moderate number of blue‒green neutrophilic inclusions. Further characterisation revealed that these inclusions exhibited broad-spectrum autofluorescence, were negative for Prussian blue staining, and were positive for Sudan Black staining. Biochemical analysis demonstrated severe acute hepatocellular injury characterised by markedly increased alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activities with mild hyperbilirubinemia. Following hospitalisation and supportive care, the cat showed clinical improvement. The cat was alive on Day 279 follow-up with normal ALT and AST values.
BACKGROUND:Increasing drug resistance, together with possible transmission of these phenomena to other pathogenic agents, as well as the dissemination of resistant microbes and drug residues to the environment, poses existing challenges for human health. The journey in history of medicine indicates that the post-antibiotic era has been initiated and the application of medicinal plants is a promising alternative to antibiotics. OBJECTIVES:The aim of this review was to have a glance at available medicinal plant products in modern poultry production in the post-antibiotic era. However, the globalization of one-health needs efforts from both scientists and policy makers to work firmly in a harmonized mission continuously, and all nations must be simultaneously involved in this process to fulfil their obligation properly. METHODS:This review is focused on the role of the well-known medicinal plants in poultry and method of reviewing includes a brief introduction, history, the present status and prospective future by critical reviewing the published literatures. RESULTS:An extensive application of natural medicine in poultry during the post-antibiotic era in a comprehensive holistic one-health was reviewed, and some of the most relevant commercially available products were also mentioned as a footprint to encourage the researchers to include all the necessary parameters for practical application of the medicinal plant products during their study in details. Some recommendations/future directions on achieving the goals and completing the mission were also proposed. CONCLUSION:Application of the medicinal plants in intensive poultry industry is the best solution for production of antibiotic-free foods during the post-antibiotic era.
BACKGROUND:The genus Bordetella comprises 16 species of aerobic Gram-negative bacteria, with the most notable being B. pertussis, B. parapertussis and B. bronchiseptica. The latter stands out for its ability to infect various hosts, causing both respiratory and reproductive issues, such as endometritis and infertility in mares. These infections impair reproductive efficiency and facilitate the spread of the pathogen among susceptible animals. OBJECTIVES:The present study aimed to report the isolation and molecular diagnosis of B. bronchiseptica associated with endometritis and infertility in mares in Brazil, as well as to evaluate the antimicrobial susceptibility profile of the isolates. METHODS:For this purpose, uterine lavage was collected from three Mangalarga Marchador mares using an aseptic technique with a transcervical probe and Ringer's lactate solution. The samples were centrifuged, cultured on MacConkey agar, blood agar and Sabouraud agar, and identified by biochemical characteristics. PCR was performed to amplify the flanking region of the flaA gene of B. bronchiseptica, followed by sequencing and analysis. RESULTS:The antibiogram was conducted using the agar diffusion method on Mueller-Hinton agar. Microbial culture identified B. bronchiseptica, confirmed by biochemical and molecular tests. The isolates showed resistance to multiple antibiotics, such as penicillins and cephalosporins. MAIN LIMITATIONS:No investigation into transmission routes, prevalence or risk factors in the broader equine population. CONCLUSION:This study describes, for the first time in Brazil, the detection of B. bronchiseptica causing uterine infection and infertility in mares, expanding knowledge about its pathogenic potential. The results highlight the need to consider this bacterium in the diagnosis of reproductive disorders, even in the absence of respiratory manifestations.
ABSTRACT Background Doxorubicin (DOX) is a common anticancer drug used to treat various types of neoplasms. However, its use is associated with neurotoxic effects, including neuronal degeneration and damage. Objective The principal objective of the current experiment was to examine the mechanisms underlying biochemical and histological brain alterations induced by DOX under acute experimental conditions. Moreover, the ameliorative effects of allicin (AC) and/or L‐carnitine (LC) against DOX‐induced biochemical and histological brain alterations were evaluated. Methods A total of seven groups of Wistar rats (n = 49; male, 150 ± 50 g; 30 weeks old) were established, including the control, AC, LC, DOX, AC+DOX, LC+DOX and AC+LC+DOX groups. Biochemical analyses, oxidative stress and proinflammatory cytokines were assessed spectrophotometrically using ELISA, and the histomorphology of brain sections (cerebrum, cerebellum and hypothalamus) was evaluated. Results Results revealed that treatment with DOX increased acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity (p < 0.0001) with increased levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitric oxide (NO) contents. Meanwhile, non‐enzymatic (glutathione, GSH) levels and enzymatic (superoxide dismutase, SOD; catalase, CAT) antioxidant activities were decreased. In addition, acute experimental DOX conditions increased levels of proinflammatory cytokines and interleukins (ILs): IL‐6 and IL‐1β. Histopathologically, the brain sections showed neuronal degeneration and vacuolization. However, biochemical, oxidative, inflammatory and histological brain alterations caused by acute experimental DOX conditions were improved by AC and/or LC supplementation. Conclusion In summary, our research showed that AC and/or LC attenuated acute DOX‐associated biochemical, oxidative, inflammatory and histological brain alterations.
ABSTRACT Background Infestation of canines with ectoparasites is a significant concern worldwide in both medical and veterinary fields, especially in Iran, due to the transmission of pathogenic agents. Objectives This study aimed to assess the prevalence and diversity of ectoparasites found in dogs in Isfahan County. Methods A total of 138 dogs—comprising 57 stray dogs, 38 herd dogs and 43 owned dogs—were randomly selected and examined between July 2023 and July 2024. The body surfaces of the dogs were inspected for ectoparasites, including ticks, mites, lice and fleas. These parasites were directly removed from the skin of the examined dogs for identification. Results Results showed that among the 138 dogs examined, 54 (39.13%) hosted external parasites. Of these, 26 (48.14%) were affected by ticks, 15 (27.77%) by mites, 9 (16.66%) by fleas and 4(7.40%) by lice. A significant difference in prevalence was observed based on the sex and age of the dogs (p < 0.05). The highest incidence of external parasite infestation occurred during the spring season. Conclusions These findings indicate a notable prevalence of ectoparasites among dogs in Isfahan County. Given the known zoonotic potential of several identified species, these results highlight the need for further studies on pathogen transmission and strengthened veterinary and public health measures.
ABSTRACT Background Encephalitozoon cuniculi is an obligate intracellular parasite belonging to the phylum Microsporidia, family Encephalitozoonidae. The parasite is distributed worldwide and infects a variety of mammals, with rabbits being the main host. Currently, the most reliable diagnostic method is serological testing, but various molecular techniques are also being used. Objective This study assesses the presence, genotypes and clinical signs of E. cuniculi infection in pet rabbits in Slovenia, using molecular and serological methods. Methods From January 2022 to 2024, urine samples from random pet rabbits (n = 247) were collected for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to search for the presence of E. cuniculi genetic material or spores. Results With the real‐time PCR, E. cuniculi genetic material was detected in 37 of 247 (14.98%) rabbit urine samples. Serological testing revealed specific immunoglobulin M (IgM) and/or immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies in 91 of 133 rabbits (68.42%). A quarter of the serologically positive rabbits (25.27%) and almost half of the molecularly positive rabbits (43.24%) were clinically healthy and showed no signs of encephalitozoonosis. E. cuniculi genetic material in urine was mostly discovered in rabbits with signs of urinary tract disorders (27.03%) or neurological clinical signs (21.62%). Genotype I of E. cuniculi was detected in all rabbits. Despite the detection of the pathogens’ DNA, no E. cuniculi spores were observed by TEM. Conclusion E. cuniculi infection is common among pet rabbits in Slovenia, with a high seroprevalence and detectable urinary shedding of parasite DNA. The presence of clinically healthy but infected rabbits indicates that subclinical infections are frequent. Genotype I appears to be the predominant genotype in the studied population. Combined molecular and serological testing may improve the detection and epidemiological characterization of E. cuniculi infections in rabbits.
ABSTRACT Background Goat mastitis is an economically important disease that reduces milk yield and quality while also posing a public health risk due to antimicrobial‐resistant pathogens. Objectives This study aimed to evaluate mastitis diagnostic techniques, isolate Staphylococcus aureus, detect methicillin‐resistant S. aureus (MRSA) and assess the antibacterial potential of 6‐gingerol alone and in combination with antibiotics. Methods A total of 2000 aseptically collected milk samples were obtained from lactating goats presented at the Civil Veterinary Hospital, Chargano Chowk and the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, The University of Agriculture Peshawar, Pakistan. Samples were screened using the Surf Field Mastitis Test and confirmed by the California Mastitis Test (CMT). Positive samples were cultured on selective media, and S. aureus was identified through Gram staining, catalase and coagulase tests. MRSA detection was performed using PCR amplification of the mecA gene. Antimicrobial susceptibility was assessed using the Kirby–Bauer disc diffusion method according to CLSI guidelines. The antibacterial activity of standard and extracted 6‐gingerol, selected antibiotics and enrofloxacin plus 6‐gingerol combination therapy was evaluated using inhibition zone diameter and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assays. Results The Surf Field Mastitis Test showed high diagnostic performance with excellent sensitivity, moderate specificity and substantial agreement with the CMT. S. aureus isolates exhibited varying resistance patterns, with confirmed presence of MRSA strains via mecA gene detection. Among treatments, enrofloxacin demonstrated the highest individual antibacterial activity, while extracted 6‐gingerol showed moderate inhibitory effects. The combination of enrofloxacin with 6‐gingerol exhibited the strongest antibacterial activity, surpassing all single‐agent treatments. MIC analysis confirmed a concentration‐dependent inhibitory effect of 6‐gingerol against S. aureus. Correlation analysis showed a strong negative relationship between increasing compound concentration and bacterial growth, while combination therapy significantly enhanced antimicrobial efficacy. Conclusion These findings demonstrate that rapid field diagnostics are effective for mastitis screening and suggest that 6‐gingerol, particularly in combination with enrofloxacin, may serve as a promising adjunct antimicrobial strategy for controlling resistant S. aureus in goat mastitis.
