Prevalence of ectoparasite infestations in stray cats and dogs in Istanbul

This study was conducted to determine the prevalence and species composition of ectoparasite infestations in stray cats and dogs in Istanbul, as well as their associations with seasonal, regional, and demographic factors. Between November 2021 and October 2022, 600 cats and 600 dogs brought to animal shelters affiliated with the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality were examined. The collected ectoparasite specimens were morphologically identified and statistically analyzed. The overall infestation rate was 77.5% in cats and 83% in dogs. In cats, seven species were identified: Ctenocephalides felis (76.5%), Ctenocephalides canis (0.83%), Ceratophyllus gallinae (0.17%), Felicola subrostratus (1.83%), Ixodes ricinus (0.67%), Rhipicephalus sanguineus (0.33%), and Otodectes cynotis (0.17%). In dogs, 14 ectoparasite species were recorded: Ctenocephalides canis (59.17%), Ctenocephalides felis (20.33%), Pulex irritans (1.83%), Trichodectes canis (0.33%), Linognathus setosus (0.5%), Rhipicephalus sanguineus (24.83%), Ixodes ricinus (5.67%), Haemaphysalis parva (2.5%), Rhipicephalus turanicus (0.33%), Ixodes acuminatus (0.33%), Haemaphysalis punctata (0.17%), Demodex canis (2.83%), Sarcoptes scabiei (0.5%), and Otodectes cynotis (0.17%). In addition, immature tick stages were observed: Rhipicephalus spp. larvae (1.5%) and nymphs (10%), and Haemaphysalis spp. larvae and nymphs (2%). According to demographic analyses, flea infestations were significantly more common in female dogs, and mange agents were significantly associated with the presence of skin lesions. In cats, lice were more prevalent in males. Seasonally, flea infestations in dogs increased in autumn, tick infestations in spring and summer, and mange agents peaked in winter. In cats, flea infestations remained stable throughout the year, while lice increased significantly in spring and winter. Tick and mange infestations in cats were low and showed no significant seasonal variation. Regionally, tick infestations in dogs were significantly more prevalent in the urban areas of the Anatolian side, while mange agents were more common on the European side. In cats, only C. canis showed a significant association with rural regions. Single infestations were detected in 49.5% of dogs and 73% of cats, while multiple infestations occurred in 31.5% of dogs and 2.67% of cats. These findings highlight the diversity and distribution dynamics of ectoparasites in stray animals and are expected to support the development of effective control strategies for veterinary public health and local authorities.