Rare report of Diphyllobothriosis in cats of Andhra Pradesh, India
摘要
Diphyllobothriosis is a parasitic infection caused by broad or fish tapeworms and has garnered increased attention due to the rising number of case reports in nonendemic regions in worldwide because of its zoonotic significance. There are very limited reports on the Diphyllobothriosis in cats. Hence, the present communication reports the rare case. Two adult indoor cats were presented at the clinic with diarrhea, loss of appetite, chronic weight loss, and abdominal distention. Fecal samples, serum, and abdominal fluid were collected for laboratory analysis. Microscopic examination of their feces revealed the presence of characteristic elliptical to oval-shaped operculated eggs of Diphyllobothriidae. Serum analysis revealed low protein and albumin levels; serum ascitic albumin gradient within the limit. The cats were treated with praziquantel at a dosage of 7.5 mg/kg body weight, with a repeat dose administered on the 15th day along with supportive medications. Both the cats recovered from the clinical illness after the completion of the duration of therapy. Diphyllobothriidae infection in cats was limited. The effective treatment involved addressing the underlying parasitic infection with Praziquantel, as well as providing supportive care and nutritional intervention.