Feline vector-borne diseases: from local risks to global concerns

Abstract

Although vector-borne pathogens infect cats worldwide, historical research efforts on this topic have been hampered by the belief that cats are less susceptible than dogs to these infections. Additionally, limited data are available on the epidemiology, clinical presentation and zoonotic importance of feline vector-borne diseases (FVBDs). This review discusses and updates the current geographical distribution of FVBDs, along with their clinical features, diagnosis, treatments, and prevention measures, highlighting the key differences between these diseases in cats and dogs and identifying the research needed to address existing knowledge gaps.