Serological Screening for Toxoplasmosis in Domestic Cats of Central Kerala

Abstract

The present study was designed to record the seropositivity rate of toxoplasmosis in domestic cats presented to the University Veterinary hospitals. Serum samples were collected from 43 cats and subjected to an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for detection of IgG antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii using a commercially available kit. Out of 43 cats tested, 12 showed a positive reaction for antibodies against T. gondii (27.90 %). The rate of seropositivity was higher in cats above 3 years, male cats and those with outdoor access. But a statistically significant association was observed only between sex of cats and seropositivity rate whereas no significant association has been observed with age and rearing practice. The identification of seropositive cats in a community is important to estimate soil contamination with oocysts and determine populations with a high risk of exposure to T. gondii. The results of the present RESEARCH ARTICLE JIVA 21 (2) August 2023 https://doi.org/10.55296/JIVA/21.2.2023. Received on 17/02/2023 Accepted on 19/06/2023 study stress on the need for establishing prevention strategies to minimize this neglected zoonosis.