Investigation of Bartonella henselae and Bartonella clarridgeiae Prevalance in Cats

Abstract

In this study, 50 blood samples taken from urban and stray cats which were examined in a private veterinary clinic in İzmir province were investigated by PCR method. PCR studies revealed that Bartonella spp. was identified from a total of % 12 of the samples. PCR identification results were 8 % for B. hensela and 4 % for B. clarridgeiae for species-based distribution. In conclusion, Bartonella species which have zoonotic importance were detected. Especially, it is confirmed the necessity of the distribution of B. henselae which transmit to human from cat fleas and importance of preventive flea medication to pet owners for feedback.