The first detection of Cytauxzoon felis in a wild cat (Felis silvestris) in Iran

Abstract

A free-ranging, adult, male Arabian wild cat (Felis silvestris) was found in a protected zone at the province of Khorasan, Iran and transported to the Ferdowsi University of Mashhad Veterinary Teaching Hospital. The cat had normal temperature and respiratory and cardiac frequency, but was significantly dehydrated and had hindlimb lameness. The animal also was cachectic, with pale mucus membranes, third eyelid protrusion, and bilaterally enlarged submandibular lymph nodes. The cat was stabilized by intensive fluid and electrolyte therapy and hospitalized. In radiographic evaluations, comminuted and multiple fracture of the right femoral bone in midshaft with fissure fracture was seen. Hematologic analysis revealed parasitemia (0.5 %) and a mild normocytic normochromic anemia, neutrophilia, eosinopenia, lymphopenia, and parasite consistent with Cytauxzoon felis. In addition, biochemical changes included increased liver enzyme serum activity and increased serum concentration of cholesterol, bilirubin, glucose, protein, and fibrinogen. The results of molecular analyses confirmed the presence of C. felis piroplasm in the blood of the cat. The cat was treated with Tazocin and clindamycin for 4 days. This is the first detection of a C. felis in wild Felidae in Iran. Because most Iranian wild felids are endangered, knowing whether Cytauxzoon infection represents a threat for these animals is important.