Molecular Detection and Therapeutic Management of Feline Mycoplasmosis

Abstract

Mycoplasma haemofelis and Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum (formerly known as Haemobartonellafelis) are the causes of hemotropic mycoplasmosis in cats. The parasites attach to the surface of the red blood cell, and have the potential to cause severe alterations of the cell’s shape, resulting in anaemia. A three-year-old tom cat was presented in University Veterinary Hospital with symptoms of lethargy, reduced appetite and fever for past 3 days. Clinical examination revealed increased temperature(103º – 105º F), blanched mucous membranes and lymphadenopathy. Upon peripheral blood smear examination small coccoid organisms could be noticed in the periphery of the RBCs. Hematobiochemical examination revealed anaemia, thrombocytopaenia and decreased haematocrit values. The blood samples were subjected to DNA extraction and followed by Polymerase Chain Reaction which confirmed mycoplasmosis due to Mycoplasma haemofelis. The animal was treated with intravenous administration of oxytetracycline@ 10mg/kg BW for five days along with prednisolone and vitamin supplements. Uneventful clinical recovery was noticed 7 days post therapy.