Prevalence of Trypanosoma spp. in domestic and stray cats in Mymensingh, Bangladesh

Background: Trypanosoma spp. infection is a significant disease affecting both humans and animals, including cats. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of Trypanosoma spp. in domestic and stray cats in the Mymensingh district, Bangladesh. Methods: A total of 36 blood samples were collected from cats (16 males and 20 females), prepared as thin blood smears, and examined under a microscope at the Department of Parasitology, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, Bangladesh. Results: Out of the 36 samples, only 3 (8.00%) were infected with Trypanosoma spp. Both young (<1 year old) and adult (>1 year) cats showed an equal prevalence of 8.33% with trypanosomiasis. The prevalence was relatively higher in females (6.25%) than in males (10.0%). The prevalence of Trypanosoma spp. was observed throughout the year, with 7.6%, 8.33%, and 9.1% prevalence during the summer, rainy, and winter seasons, respectively. The prevalence was relatively higher in the rainy season compared to the summer, and higher in the winter season compared to the summer. Conclusion: This study suggests that Trypanosoma infection in domestic and stray cats is a persistent issue regardless of age, sex, or season.