Abstract

Background:
Mycoplasma haemofelis infection is considered an important feline disease and is suspected to be transmitted via the ectoparasitic vector Ctenocephalides felis, particularly in tropical areas.

Aim: This study aimed to detect M. haemofelis at the molecular level in cats naturally infested with C. felis in Padang City, West Sumatera, Indonesia.

Methods:
A total of 61 cats were examined to assess their clinical condition and flea infestation levels, followed by blood sampling for PCR analysis targeting the 16S rRNA gene of M. haemofelis.

Results:
The PCR results revealed a high prevalence of infection, reaching (72.13%; 44/61). The level of flea infestation was positively associated with the frequency of M. haemofelis infection, with rates of 40.0% in mild infestations, 60.0% in moderate infestations, and 83.3% in severe infestations. Statistical analysis revealed a significant association (p

Key words: Mycoplasma haemofelis; Ctenocephalides felis; Cat; PCR; Padang.