Prevalence and Risk Factors of Otodectes cynotis in Cats in Bangladesh

Abstract

Otodectes cynotis is extremely contagious and has zoonotic properties. It is the second most significant external parasite of pets. The present study was accomplished at the Teaching and Training Pet Hospital and Research Centre, Dhaka, from February to July 2022. The study aimed to know the prevalence and risk factors of Otodectes cynotis in pet cats. In this study, a total of 65 cats were examined for the presence of the parasite. In addition, epidemiological data were collected from the owners of the pets by interviewing them with questionnaire designed for the study. The final diagnosis of the mites in ear wax collected was made by microscopic examination. The results revealed that the prevalence of ear mite infestation in the cats investigated was 46.15%. The epidemiological data collected were divided into two categories: one was on demographic/population basic information related which included source of purchase, number of cats, age, BCS, neutered, types of hair, interaction with other cats/dogs), and the other was health related which included ear hygiene, vaccination, deworming, and use of antibiotic therapy. Univariable analysis revealed age of cat -- less than one-year, poor BCS, interaction with other cats/animals, lack of ear hygiene practice, not vaccinated timely, and not dewormed as the risk factors for Otodectes cynotis in pet cats in Bangladesh.