DNA DETECTION AND EVALUATION OF ANTIBODIES AGAINST CHLAMYDOPHILA FELIS IN DOMESTIC CATS FROM THE NORTHEAST OF THE STATE OF SÃO PAULO, BRAZIL.

This is a report of the results of indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA), complement fixation test (CFT) and direct DNA detection by PCR to determine Chlamydophila felis infection in domestic cats. A total of 145 sera and conjunctival swab samples collected from cats showing clinical signs or clinical history compatible with feline chlamydiosis were collected in catteries, veterinary clinics and public shelters in five cities in northeast of the state of Sao Paulo, Brazil. Antibodies against Chlamydiaceae were detected in 72.41% and 6.9% of the sampled animals, and titers were over 256 in IFA and CFT. Compared with IFA, CFT was found to be less sensitive in anti-Chlamydophila spp. antibody detection in cats. Bacterial DNA was detected in swab samples of nine cats (6.21%) distributed among all analyzed groups. Results obtained in serological and PCR analyses indicate that C. felis is found in cats from northeast of the state of Sao Paulo, and veterinary practitioners should consider this bacterial infection as a possible threat for cats in Brazil . DOI:  http://dx.doi.org/10.17525/vrr.v15i2.42