Morphological Identification of Physalopterapraeputialis in a Stray Cat (Feliscatus) from Northern India

This study documents the confirmed occurrence of Physalopterapraeputialis, a spirurid stomach worm, in a stray domestic cat (Feliscatus) from Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, Northern India. A total of eleven adult nematodes (4 males, 7 females), ranging from 1.4 to 4.8 cm in length, were recovered from the gastric mucosa during necropsy conducted following road accident-induced mortality. Gross pathological findings included marked congestion, edema, and thickening of the gastric lining, with multiple worms embedded in the mucosa. Morphological examination of the nematodes revealed key diagnostic features: pale pink coloration, three prominent anterior lips bearing internal teeth, a robust muscular pharynx, and thick-shelled embryonated eggs (29–41 µm × 23–39 µm). Notably, females exhibited a brown cementing ring around the vulva, and both sexes displayed prepuce-like cuticular extensions at the posterior end distinctive traits confirming the species as P. praeputialis. Coprological analysis further validated the diagnosis by revealing eggs consistent with published descriptions. Although P. praeputialis is globally distributed, reports from India remain sparse, and particularly rare in stray feline populations. This case adds to the limited national data and suggests a likely underestimation of the parasite’s prevalence due to lack of routine parasitological surveillance and limited diagnostic capacity in free-ranging animal populations. The findings underscore the importance of morphological diagnostics, especially in resource-limited settings lacking molecular tools. They also highlight the necessity for regular parasitic screening and deworming programs for stray cats to reduce potential veterinary and zoonotic health risks. Enhanced monitoring and ecological studies are warranted to clarify host-vector dynamics, improve control strategies, and better understand the distribution of this neglected but significant parasite in India.