Diagnosis of Taenia taeniaeformis (Cyclophyllidea: Taeniidae) in domestic feline in Pelotas city, Brazil: case report

Abstract

Taeniasis, caused by the Taenia taeniaeformis cestoda, is a cosmopolitan disease affecting the feline small intestine and is considered a definitive host. Intermediate hosts are several rodents, causing structural changes accompanied by liver cell dysfunction. In general, infections are considered asymptomatic, however intestinal obstruction has been reported by this parasite. A case of human infection has already been reported. The present report describes a case of T. taeniaeformis diagnosed in a cat seen at a veterinary clinic in Pelotas, RS, Brazil. It is the first case reported with clinical signs in the region, and there are no recent reports of its occurrence in the country. The commercial association of the active ingredients Pamoato de pirantel (20mg / Kg) and Praziquantel (5mg / Kg) was used. This work should serve as a warning to veterinarians throughout the region, as there is a potential clinical risk of teniasis in cats and possible occurrence in humans.