Ctenocephalides
Rickettsia felis
Ectoparasitic Infestations
Nitro Compounds
Dog Diseases
Cat Diseases
Rhipicephalus sanguineus
Methoprene
Phthiraptera
Typhus, Endemic Flea-Borne
Cats
Insecticides
Dogs
Rickettsia
Development of microsatellites for genetic analyses and population assignment of the cat flea (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae). (1/30)
Cat fleas, Ctenocephalidesfelis (Bouche) (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae), are common ectoparasites of companion animals that negatively impact their hosts directly by causing dermatitis and blood loss during feeding and indirectly through the potential transmission of disease causing agents. We isolated and characterized seven novel microsatellite loci from a partial genomic library of the cat flea enriched for di-, tri-, and tetranucleotide repeats. We screened these loci in cat fleas from two laboratory colonies and one wild-caught population collected at a temporary animal shelter (Parker coliseum) in Baton Rouge, LA. Six loci were polymorphic, with two to 15 alleles per locus and an average observed heterozygosity of 0.21 across populations. Although the two laboratory cat flea colonies were isolated from each other for many years, they did not significantly differ in their genotypic composition. The cat flea population from Parker coliseum was genetically different from the laboratory colonies, but also showed high degrees of inbreeding. Multilocus genotypes of the polymorphic loci were sufficient to assign over 85% of cat fleas to their population of origin. Genetic markers for flea population identity will allow further studies to examine the origins and movement of cat fleas with important genetic traits such as insecticide resistance or pathogen susceptibility. The use of microsatellites also could determine if there are host-specific strains of cat fleas and add insight into the development of the different subspecies of C. felis. (+info)Acquisition of Rickettsia felis by cat fleas during feeding. (2/30)
(+info)Efficacy of imidacloprid + moxidectin and selamectin topical solutions against the KS1 Ctenocephalides felis flea strain infesting cats. (3/30)
(+info)Comparative efficacy on dogs of a single topical treatment with the pioneer fipronil/(S)-methoprene and an oral treatment with spinosad against Ctenocephalides felis. (4/30)
In the study reported here, the pioneer fipronil/(S)-methoprene topical product (Frontline(R) Plus, Merial Limited, Duluth, GA) was compared to the oral spinosad product (Comfortis(R) Elanco, Greenfield, IN) for efficacy against adult fleas and preventing egg production. The product presentations, doses and labelling were the one applicable in the USA. Using a standard protocol, 200 cat fleas of mixed sex were applied to dogs on Days 1, 7, 14, 21, 28, 35, and 42. Dogs were combed to remove fleas 24 hours post-infestation, the fleas were counted, collected, and then reapplied to each dog following completion of their respective count. At 48 hours post-infestation, comb counts were performed and fleas were removed. No fleas were collected from any dog in the fipronil/(S)-methoprene group at any 24 or 48 hours post-infestation assessment throughout the six weeks study, yielding a preventive efficacy of 100%. For the spinosad treatment, efficacy was 100% at 24 hours and 48 hours through Day 16, and thereafter declined. The results observed in the spinosad-treated dogs were highly variable between animals. At the 24 and 48 hours counts following the Day 21 infestation, only five of eight spinosad-treated dogs (62.5%) were flea-free. Following the Day 28 infestation, spinosad efficacy fell to 85% and 89%, for the 24 hours and 48 hours counts, and only two dogs (25%) were flea free, compared to 100% flea-free dogs in the fipronil/(S)-methoprene group. No fleas were collected from the fipronil/(S)-methoprene treated dogs throughout the entire study, therefore, no eggs were collected at any time from any dog in the group. However, in the spinosad group adult fleas were found on dogs starting on Day 21 and by Day 30, 42 eggs were collected from one dog that had 107 adult fleas counted at 48 hours. At Day 37 and Day 49, more than 100 eggs were collected from each dog in the spinosad-treated and control groups. (+info)Real-time PCR of the mammalian hydroxymethylbilane synthase (HMBS) gene for analysis of flea (Ctenocephalides felis) feeding patterns on dogs. (5/30)
(+info)Cat flea infestation in a hospital: a case report. (6/30)
(+info)Efficacy of slow-release collar formulations of imidacloprid/flumethrin and deltamethrin and of spot-on formulations of fipronil/(s)-- methoprene, dinotefuran/pyriproxyfen/permethrin and (s) -methoprene/amitraz/fipronil against Rhipicephalus sanguineus and Ctenocephalides felis felis on dogs. (7/30)
(+info)Comparative efficacy on dogs of a single topical treatment with fipronil/(S)-methoprene or weekly physiological hygiene shampoos against Ctenocephalides felis in a simulated flea-infested environment. (8/30)
Flea infestations of pets continue to persist due to the lack of knowledge of flea biology and ecology. It is not unusual that pet owners believe regular hygiene, such as shampooing their dogs can replace regular insecticidal treatment. The objective of this study was to compare in a flea simulated environment, modelling exposure similar to that found in a home, that the use of regular physiological shampoo does not control fleas adequately when compared to a long acting topical formulation. Three groups of six dogs were formed: one untreated control group, one group treated monthly with the topical formulation of fipronil/(S)-methoprene, and a third group treated weekly with a hygiene shampoo. All dogs were infested with adult unfed Ctenocephalides felis fleas (200+/-5) on Days -28 and -21. Each animal's sleeping box was fitted with a plastic cup mounted to the inside roof of the box. The sleeping bench of each animal was covered with a carpet to accommodate flea development. The dogs were maintained in their kennels throughout the study. In order to maintain the environmental flea challenge, C. felis pupae (100+/-5) were placed in the plastic cup in each animal's sleeping box on Days -14, -7, 0, 7, 14, 21, 28, 35 and 42. The dogs were combed and fleas counted weekly on Days -1, 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, 38, 45, and 51. The fleas were placed immediately back on the dogs. On Day 60, fleas were counted and removed. Flea infestations in the untreated control group at each count averaged between 46.2 and 74.2 fleas throughout the study. The average number of fleas infesting dogs was significantly different (p<0.05) between the untreated and the two treatment groups and between the two treatment groups at all counts throughout the two months study (Days 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, 38, 45, 51 and 60). The efficacy was never below 99.1% in the fipronil/(S)-methoprene group, and efficacy in the shampoo group was never above 79.2%. Weekly shampooing in treatment group 3 was intentionally delayed after Day 42, to evaluate wether missing a weekly bath would affect the flea population. The Day 48 data indicate that forgetting or delaying a single weekly shampooing resulted in a clear increase in flea numbers and a significant decrease in efficacy from 68.2% to 34.8%. The fipronil(S)/methoprene treatment allowed a continuous control as demonstrated by the high efficacy against fleas, and also the number of flea-free dogs on seven of the nine weekly assessments, in spite of what was essentially a continuous flea challenge model. (+info)Ctenocephalides is a genus of parasitic insects in the family Pulicidae, commonly known as fleas. There are two main species within this genus that are of medical importance: Ctenocephalides canis (the dog flea) and Ctenocephalides felis (the cat flea). These flea species are vectors for various disease-causing pathogens and parasites, which can affect both animals and humans. They can cause irritation, allergic reactions, and transmit bacterial infections such as murine typhus and endemic typhus. Proper identification and control of Ctenocephalides infestations are essential for preventing the spread of these diseases.
A flea infestation refers to an unwanted invasion and multiplication of fleas (small, wingless insects that jump) in living spaces or on a host organism, usually a mammal or bird. These parasites feed on the blood of their hosts, causing itching, discomfort, and sometimes transmitting diseases.
Flea infestations are particularly common in domestic animals such as dogs and cats, but they can also affect humans. The most prevalent flea species is the cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis), although dog fleas (Ctenocephalides canis) and human fleas (Pulex irritans) can also cause infestations.
Signs of a flea infestation include:
1. Seeing live fleas on the host or in their living environment.
2. Finding flea dirt, which looks like small black specks and is actually flea feces, on the host or their bedding.
3. Excessive scratching, biting, or licking by the host, leading to skin irritation, redness, and hair loss.
4. Presence of flea eggs, which are tiny and white, in the host's fur or living spaces.
5. Development of secondary skin infections due to constant scratching and biting.
Preventing and controlling flea infestations involves regular vacuuming, washing pet bedding, using topical or oral preventatives for pets, and sometimes employing professional pest control services.
Siphonaptera is the scientific order that includes fleas. Fleas are small, wingless insects with laterally compressed bodies and strong legs adapted for jumping. They are external parasites, living by hematophagy off the blood of mammals and birds. Fleas can be a nuisance to their hosts, and some people and animals have allergic reactions to flea saliva. Fleas can also transmit diseases, such as bubonic plague and murine typhus, and parasites like tapeworms.
"Rickettsia felis" is a species of intracellular bacteria that can cause disease in humans and animals. It is the causative agent of flea-borne spotted fever, also known as cat scratch fever or flea-borne typhus. The bacterium is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected fleas, such as the cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis).
"Rickettsia felis" can infect various types of cells in the body, including endothelial cells, which line the interior surface of blood vessels. The infection can cause symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle pain, and rash. In severe cases, it can lead to complications such as pneumonia, meningitis, or damage to internal organs.
It is important to note that "Rickettsia felis" infections are rare and are typically found in certain geographic regions, particularly in tropical and subtropical areas. Proper prevention measures, such as using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing, can help reduce the risk of infection. If you suspect that you may have been infected with "Rickettsia felis," it is important to seek medical attention promptly.
Ectoparasitic infestations refer to the invasion and multiplication of parasites, such as lice, fleas, ticks, or mites, on the outer surface of a host organism, typically causing irritation, itching, and other skin disorders. These parasites survive by feeding on the host's blood, skin cells, or other bodily substances, leading to various health issues if left untreated.
Ectoparasitic infestations can occur in humans as well as animals and may require medical intervention for proper diagnosis and treatment. Common symptoms include redness, rash, inflammation, and secondary bacterial or viral infections due to excessive scratching. Preventive measures such as personal hygiene, regular inspections, and avoiding contact with infested individuals or environments can help reduce the risk of ectoparasitic infestations.
Rickettsia infections are a group of diseases caused by bacteria belonging to the genus Rickettsia. These bacteria are obligate intracellular pathogens, meaning they can only survive and reproduce inside host cells. They are primarily transmitted to humans through the bites of infected arthropods such as ticks, fleas, and lice.
The different types of Rickettsia infections include:
1. Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF): This is the most severe and common rickettsial infection in the United States. It is caused by Rickettsia rickettsii and transmitted through the bite of an infected tick.
2. Mediterranean Spotted Fever (MSF): Also known as boutonneuse fever, this infection is prevalent in Mediterranean countries and is caused by Rickettsia conorii. It is transmitted through the bite of an infected dog tick or a brown dog tick.
3. Typhus Group: This group includes epidemic typhus, caused by Rickettsia prowazekii, and murine typhus, caused by Rickettsia typhi. Both are transmitted to humans through the feces of infected lice or fleas.
4. Scrub Typhus: Caused by Orientia tsutsugamushi, this infection is prevalent in Southeast Asia and is transmitted through the bite of an infected mite (chigger).
5. Rickettsialpox: This is a mild rickettsial infection caused by Rickettsia akari and is transmitted to humans through the bites of infected mites.
Symptoms of Rickettsia infections may include fever, headache, muscle pain, nausea, vomiting, and a rash. If left untreated, these infections can lead to severe complications such as damage to blood vessels, inflammation of the brain (encephalitis), or even death. Treatment typically involves antibiotics such as doxycycline or chloramphenicol. Preventive measures include using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and promptly removing ticks after being outdoors.
Antiparasitic agents are a type of medication used to treat parasitic infections. These agents include a wide range of drugs that work to destroy, inhibit the growth of, or otherwise eliminate parasites from the body. Parasites are organisms that live on or inside a host and derive nutrients at the host's expense.
Antiparasitic agents can be divided into several categories based on the type of parasite they target. Some examples include:
* Antimalarial agents: These drugs are used to treat and prevent malaria, which is caused by a parasite that is transmitted through the bites of infected mosquitoes.
* Antiprotozoal agents: These drugs are used to treat infections caused by protozoa, which are single-celled organisms that can cause diseases such as giardiasis, amoebic dysentery, and sleeping sickness.
* Antihelminthic agents: These drugs are used to treat infections caused by helminths, which are parasitic worms that can infect various organs of the body, including the intestines, lungs, and skin. Examples include roundworms, tapeworms, and flukes.
Antiparasitic agents work in different ways to target parasites. Some disrupt the parasite's metabolism or interfere with its ability to reproduce. Others damage the parasite's membrane or exoskeleton, leading to its death. The specific mechanism of action depends on the type of antiparasitic agent and the parasite it is targeting.
It is important to note that while antiparasitic agents can be effective in treating parasitic infections, they can also have side effects and potential risks. Therefore, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any antiparasitic medication to ensure safe and appropriate use.
Nitro compounds, also known as nitro derivatives or nitro aromatics, are organic compounds that contain the nitro group (-NO2) bonded to an aromatic hydrocarbon ring. They are named as such because they contain a nitrogen atom in a -3 oxidation state and are typically prepared by the nitration of aromatic compounds using nitric acid or a mixture of nitric and sulfuric acids.
Nitro compounds have significant importance in organic chemistry due to their versatile reactivity, which allows for various chemical transformations. They can serve as useful intermediates in the synthesis of other chemical products, including dyes, pharmaceuticals, and explosives. However, some nitro compounds can also be hazardous, with potential health effects such as skin and respiratory irritation, and they may pose environmental concerns due to their persistence and potential toxicity.
It is important to handle nitro compounds with care, following appropriate safety guidelines and regulations, to minimize risks associated with their use.
There is no medical definition for "dog diseases" as it is too broad a term. However, dogs can suffer from various health conditions and illnesses that are specific to their species or similar to those found in humans. Some common categories of dog diseases include:
1. Infectious Diseases: These are caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi, or parasites. Examples include distemper, parvovirus, kennel cough, Lyme disease, and heartworms.
2. Hereditary/Genetic Disorders: Some dogs may inherit certain genetic disorders from their parents. Examples include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and degenerative myelopathy.
3. Age-Related Diseases: As dogs age, they become more susceptible to various health issues. Common age-related diseases in dogs include arthritis, dental disease, cancer, and cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS).
4. Nutritional Disorders: Malnutrition or improper feeding can lead to various health problems in dogs. Examples include obesity, malnutrition, and vitamin deficiencies.
5. Environmental Diseases: These are caused by exposure to environmental factors such as toxins, allergens, or extreme temperatures. Examples include heatstroke, frostbite, and toxicities from ingesting harmful substances.
6. Neurological Disorders: Dogs can suffer from various neurological conditions that affect their nervous system. Examples include epilepsy, intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), and vestibular disease.
7. Behavioral Disorders: Some dogs may develop behavioral issues due to various factors such as anxiety, fear, or aggression. Examples include separation anxiety, noise phobias, and resource guarding.
It's important to note that regular veterinary care, proper nutrition, exercise, and preventative measures can help reduce the risk of many dog diseases.
There are many diseases that can affect cats, and the specific medical definitions for these conditions can be quite detailed and complex. However, here are some common categories of feline diseases and examples of each:
1. Infectious diseases: These are caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi, or parasites. Examples include:
* Feline panleukopenia virus (FPV), also known as feline parvovirus, which can cause severe gastrointestinal symptoms and death in kittens.
* Feline calicivirus (FCV), which can cause upper respiratory symptoms such as sneezing and nasal discharge.
* Feline leukemia virus (FeLV), which can suppress the immune system and lead to a variety of secondary infections and diseases.
* Bacterial infections, such as those caused by Pasteurella multocida or Bartonella henselae, which can cause abscesses or other symptoms.
2. Neoplastic diseases: These are cancerous conditions that can affect various organs and tissues in cats. Examples include:
* Lymphoma, which is a common type of cancer in cats that can affect the lymph nodes, spleen, liver, and other organs.
* Fibrosarcoma, which is a type of soft tissue cancer that can arise from fibrous connective tissue.
* Squamous cell carcinoma, which is a type of skin cancer that can be caused by exposure to sunlight or tobacco smoke.
3. Degenerative diseases: These are conditions that result from the normal wear and tear of aging or other factors. Examples include:
* Osteoarthritis, which is a degenerative joint disease that can cause pain and stiffness in older cats.
* Dental disease, which is a common condition in cats that can lead to tooth loss, gum inflammation, and other problems.
* Heart disease, such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), which is a thickening of the heart muscle that can lead to congestive heart failure.
4. Hereditary diseases: These are conditions that are inherited from a cat's parents and are present at birth or develop early in life. Examples include:
* Polycystic kidney disease (PKD), which is a genetic disorder that causes cysts to form in the kidneys and can lead to kidney failure.
* Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), which can be inherited as an autosomal dominant trait in some cats.
* Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), which is a group of genetic disorders that cause degeneration of the retina and can lead to blindness.
"Rhipicephalus sanguineus" is the medical term for the brown dog tick. It is a species of tick that is widely distributed around the world and is known to feed on a variety of hosts, including dogs, cats, and humans. The brown dog tick is a vector for several diseases, including canine babesiosis and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. It can survive and reproduce in indoor environments, making it a common pest in homes and kennels. The tick undergoes a four-stage life cycle: egg, larva, nymph, and adult. Each stage requires a blood meal before molting to the next stage or reproducing.
Methoprene is an insect growth regulator (IGR) that disrupts the developmental process in insects, preventing them from reaching maturity and reproducing. It works by mimicking the natural hormones found in insects, specifically juvenile hormone, which regulates their molting and metamorphosis. By interfering with this process, methoprene causes immature insects to continue molting without ever becoming adults, or it prevents larvae from transforming into pupae or adults.
Methoprene is commonly used in pest control applications, including public health, agriculture, and household settings, to control a wide range of insect pests, such as mosquitoes, fleas, ticks, ants, cockroaches, and stored product pests. It has low toxicity to non-target organisms, including mammals, making it a relatively safe option for use in sensitive environments. However, like any pesticide, methoprene should be used responsibly and according to label instructions to minimize potential risks to human health and the environment.
Phthiraptera is an order of small parasitic insects, also known as lice. They are characterized by having a specialized body structure adapted for living in close association with birds and mammals. There are three main subgroups: Anoplura (sucking lice), Ischnocera (chewing lice), and Rhynchophthirina (large-biting lice). Lice can cause itching, discomfort, and spread diseases to their hosts.
Endemic flea-borne typhus, also known as murine typhus, is a vector-borne disease caused by the bacterium Rickettsia typhi or Rickettsia felis. It is transmitted to humans through the infected feces of fleas, usually the rat flea (Xenopsylla cheopis) or the cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis). The bacteria enter the body through skin abrasions or mucous membranes, such as the eyes or mouth, and cause symptoms that may include fever, headache, muscle aches, rash, and nausea. Endemic flea-borne typhus is typically found in areas with high populations of rodents and their associated fleas, and it can be treated with antibiotics. It is not as severe as epidemic typhus, which is caused by a different type of Rickettsia bacterium and is transmitted through the body lice.
'Rickettsia typhi' is a species of intracellular bacterium that causes typhus fever, also known as endemic typhus. This disease is typically transmitted to humans through the feces of infected lice or fleas. The bacteria enter the host's cells, including endothelial cells, and multiply within them, causing a spectrum of symptoms such as high fever, headache, muscle pain, rash, and sometimes pneumonia or meningoencephalitis. Early diagnosis and treatment with appropriate antibiotics are crucial to prevent severe complications and death.
"Cat" is a common name that refers to various species of small carnivorous mammals that belong to the family Felidae. The domestic cat, also known as Felis catus or Felis silvestris catus, is a popular pet and companion animal. It is a subspecies of the wildcat, which is found in Europe, Africa, and Asia.
Domestic cats are often kept as pets because of their companionship, playful behavior, and ability to hunt vermin. They are also valued for their ability to provide emotional support and therapy to people. Cats are obligate carnivores, which means that they require a diet that consists mainly of meat to meet their nutritional needs.
Cats are known for their agility, sharp senses, and predatory instincts. They have retractable claws, which they use for hunting and self-defense. Cats also have a keen sense of smell, hearing, and vision, which allow them to detect prey and navigate their environment.
In medical terms, cats can be hosts to various parasites and diseases that can affect humans and other animals. Some common feline diseases include rabies, feline leukemia virus (FeLV), feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), and toxoplasmosis. It is important for cat owners to keep their pets healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations and preventative treatments to protect both the cats and their human companions.
Insecticides are substances or mixtures of substances intended for preventing, destroying, or mitigating any pest, including insects, arachnids, or other related pests. They can be chemical or biological agents that disrupt the growth, development, or behavior of these organisms, leading to their death or incapacitation. Insecticides are widely used in agriculture, public health, and residential settings for pest control. However, they must be used with caution due to potential risks to non-target organisms and the environment.
I believe there might be a misunderstanding in your question. "Dogs" is not a medical term or condition. It is the common name for a domesticated carnivore of the family Canidae, specifically the genus Canis, which includes wolves, foxes, and other extant and extinct species of mammals. Dogs are often kept as pets and companions, and they have been bred in a wide variety of forms and sizes for different purposes, such as hunting, herding, guarding, assisting police and military forces, and providing companionship and emotional support.
If you meant to ask about a specific medical condition or term related to dogs, please provide more context so I can give you an accurate answer.
Rickettsia is a genus of Gram-negative, aerobic, rod-shaped bacteria that are obligate intracellular parasites. They are the etiologic agents of several important human diseases, including Rocky Mountain spotted fever, typhus fever, and scrub typhus. Rickettsia are transmitted to humans through the bites of infected arthropods, such as ticks, fleas, and lice. Once inside a host cell, Rickettsia manipulate the host cell's cytoskeleton and membrane-trafficking machinery to gain entry and replicate within the host cell's cytoplasm. They can cause significant damage to the endothelial cells that line blood vessels, leading to vasculitis, tissue necrosis, and potentially fatal outcomes if not promptly diagnosed and treated with appropriate antibiotics.