Clinical management of feline trypanosomiasis (Trypanosoma evansi) in six domestic short-haired cats
Author(s): VVV Amruth Kumar and Revathi Kumari M
Abstract: Trypanosomiasis is a significant zoonotic disease that affects a wide variety of domestic and wild animals, as well as humans. Although cats are generally considered resistant and feline infections are uncommon, when they do occur, they pose notable diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Six domestic short-haired cats were presented to the Veterinary Clinical Complex (VCC), College of Veterinary Science, Rajendra Nagar, Hyderabad, exhibiting clinical signs including bilateral corneal opacity (83.33%) for 10-12 days, enlargement of lymph nodes (83.33%), fever (66.67%), anorexia (66.67%), pale mucous membranes (50.00%) and dehydration (33.33%). Neurological abnormalities such as incoordination of gait and circling movements were also observed. Wet blood films were prepared and examined under a 10× objective, and additional blood smears were stained with Giemsa stain and observed under oil immersion (100×). Diagnosis of Trypanosoma spp. was done based on microscopic findings, clinical signs, case history, and hematological results. All six cats were treated with the trypanocidal drug Diminazene aceturate at a dose rate of 3.5 mg/kg body weight, administered via deep intramuscular injection once daily for five consecutive days. Supportive therapy, including antibiotics and fluid management, was also provided. Noticeable clinical improvement was observed from the third day of treatment onwards. This report emphasizes the importance of considering feline trypanosomiasis as a differential diagnosis in cats showing nonspecific clinical signs such as anemia and fever, particularly in endemic regions. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment can lead to successful recovery and help prevent further transmission of this zoonotic parasite.
