Lungworm Infections in Dutch (Shelter) Cats: Prevalence and the Association with Clinical Signs

Lungworm infections in Dutch (shelter) cats: Prevalence and the association with clinical signs

Aelurostrongylus abstrusus and Troglostrongylus spp. are metastrongyloid nematodes that can infect the airways of cats. Cats get infected by ingesting intermediate (snails and slugs) or paratenic hosts (birds, frogs, lizards, rodents). Infection with feline lungworm is associated with significant morbidity and mortality, but clinical signs remain ill-defined. Feline lungworm is considered to be an emerging disease and might be underdiagnosed by veterinarians. The aims of the study were to determine the current prevalence of lungworm infection in Dutch cats and the associated clinical signs. Screening was performed with the Baermann technique. Lungworm species determination was based on morphological characteristics of larvae. Positive tested cats received further clinical, radiographic and hematologic work up. […]