A SURVEY OF GASTROINTESTINAL PARASITES IN DOGS AND CATS IN SOKOTO METROPOLIS
Abstract
Gastrointestinal parasites are among the major causes of poor health and productivity in domestic animals and pose significant zoonotic risks to humans. This study investigated the prevalence and diversity of gastrointestinal parasites in dogs and cats within Sokoto Metropolis, Nigeria. A total of sixteen (16) fecal samples were collected from both pet and stray dogs and cats. Each sample was examined using standard parasitological techniques, including direct smear and flotation methods, for the detection of helminth eggs and protozoan cysts. The parasites identified included ncylostoma spp., Toxocara spp., Dipylidium caninum and Isospora spp. The overall prevalence was higher in stray animals compared to pets, with mixed infections occurring more frequently in stray cats and dogs. The findings revealed that environmental contamination, poor sanitation, and irregular deworming contribute to the persistence of these parasites in the study area. This study emphasizes the need for regular deworming of domestic pets, improved waste management, and effective public health education to minimize the risk of zoonotic transmission of gastrointestinal parasites in Sokoto State.
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