Hepatorenal Biochemical Changes Otodectes cynotis Infestations in Domestic Cats: An Epidemiological Study in Nasiriyah, Iraq
Aqeel Khazal
Department of Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery, Shatrah University, Thi-Qar, Alshatrah 64001, Iraq.
Notheela Rasheed Hameed
Department of Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery, Shatrah University, Thi-Qar, Alshatrah 64001, Iraq.
Nabeel Mahdi Abed
*
Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Shatrah, Thi-Qar, Iraq.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background: Otodectes cynotis is a common ear mite in domestic cats, causing otitis externa and potentially affecting systemic health, including liver and kidney function. Prevalence varies with age, sex, density, litter type, and location.
Aim: To determine the prevalence of O. cynotis in domestic cats in Nasiriyah city, Iraq. and assess associated hematological and biochemical changes.
Materials and Methods: A total of 150 cats were examined between July 2025 and January 2026. Cats were captured using Havahart 1045 live traps. Ear swabs were microscopically examined for mite identification. Blood samples from the femoral vein were taken and analyzed for liver enzymes (Alanine Aminotransferase, Aspartate Aminotransferase, Alkaline Phosphatase), total bilirubin, urea, creatinine, calcium, and potassium. Prevalence was evaluated according to sex, age, household density, litter type, and location using chi-square tests and (P ≤ 0.05) considered as significant.
Results: Overall prevalence was 60% (90/150). Although not significant, Infection was higher in females (63.3%) than males (36.7%), without a significant difference (P = 0.41). Age significantly affected prevalence, where it was highest in cats aged 2 months-<1 year (80%) and lowest in ≥3 years (40%) (P < 0.001). Cats in households with >3 cats showed 100% infection, and garden soil litter had higher prevalence (75%) than commercial litter (42.8%) (P < 0.001). Biochemical analysis revealed significant elevations in liver enzymes, urea, creatinine, and total bilirubin in infected cats, varying by breed and sex. Potassium increased significantly in female Shirazi cats (P = 0.002).
Keywords: Otodectes cynotis, cats, prevalence, biochemical changes, risk factors