Prevalence of Salmonella species in stray cats in Mosul city

ABSTRACT: Stray carnivores are often exposed to intestinal infection with Salmonella species and might remain carriers for long period, so they have great possibilities for shedding these organisms; particularly the stray cats in cities are more than others because of their size and habits; thus they might contribute actively in contamination of environment. The aim of this study was to detect Salmonella species in stray cats and to access their role in spreading of salmonella infection. Rectal swabs from 59 apparently healthy cats were cultured, tetrathionate broth and Salmonella-Shigella agar were used. Euthanization and post mortem examinations were done later. Bacterial isolation from internal organs was carried out also. Morphological properties and biochemical tests were dependent for detection of Salmonella organisms. They were serotyped in Central Health Laboratory in Baghdad. A high isolation rate of Salmonellae (10.16%) was recorded (by rectal swabs). Various Salmonella serovars were observed: S. anatum (3.38%), S. montevideo (3.38%), S. typhimurim (1.69%) and S. brenrderup (1.69%). The isolation rate from internal organs was lower (0.67%) than that from rectum, S. typhimurim (1.69%) and S. montevideo (1.69%) were isolated from small intestine and mesenteric lymph nodes respectively. Stray cats have great chances to get intestinal infection in comparison with the house cats due to their living style. In conclusion asymptomatic (carriers) stray cats were considered a dangerous source of infection with Salmonellae, besides their significant role in contamination of environment; they will threat public and animal health particularly in cities