Do you know what platyinosomiasis is? Popularly known as cat lizard disease, the disease affects domestic cats and is caused by a parasite. The trematode Platynosomum fastosum is considered one of the most dangerous parasites for pussies, and can inhabit the bile ducts, gallbladder and small intestine of pets. For you to understand more about this disease and how it affects animal health, we talked to veterinarian Vanessa Zimbres, from the Gato é Gente Boa clinic.

How does the transmission of platyinosomiasis in cats occur?

Feline platyinosomiasis is a more frequent health problem in countries with a subtropical or tropical climate, as is the case in Brazil. This, however, does not prevent kittens from all over the world from being affected by the disease. This disease is not so well known by geckos, but it is still very serious and complex. To understand better about it, veterinarian Vanessa explained a little more about how to treat it."During the life cycle of the parasite, there are 3 intermediate hosts and, finally, cats that are the definitive hosts. The cat acquires worms after ingesting intermediate hosts of the parasite and, among these hosts, we can mention lizards, frogs and geckos ", he explained.

In addition to lizards, frogs and geckos, the parasite also uses the land snail, beetles and bedbugs as intermediate hosts. Upon reaching the cats' organism, the adult worm releases eggs that end up in the felines' intestines and are eliminated along with the pet's feces. The released eggs mature and penetrate the first intermediate host, the snail. After about 28 days in the cat's intestine, the eggs mature.first host, the worm multiplies and returns to the soil until it is eventually ingested by beetles and bedbugs. These insects are consumed by lizards and frogs, which are then hunted by cats. The worm stays in the body of the cats until it becomes an adult and lays eggs, starting a new cycle.

Platinosomosis: what are the symptoms of the disease?

The intensity of the effects of platyhinosis in cats will depend on the amount of worms present in the body. "Many animals may be asymptomatic or have nonspecific symptoms such as loss of appetite, weight loss, lethargy, vomiting and diarrhea. In large infestations of the worm, there may be obstruction of the gallbladder and gallbladder ducts, resulting in jaundice (yellowish skin and mucous membranes).hepatomegaly (enlargement of the liver), cirrhosis, cholangiohepatitis and even death," said Vanessa.

How is feline platyinosomiasis diagnosed?

It is essential to tell the veterinarian about the animal's routine and personality during the consultation so that the diagnosis can be made more quickly. In the case of a cat with a more pronounced hunting instinct and that is showing clinical signs, it will be easier to identify feline platyhomiasis. Confirmation of the diagnosis will come from the results of clinical examinations.

"Definitive diagnosis is made by detecting parasite eggs in the cat's feces, provided there is no total obstruction of the bile duct. The formalin-ether sedimentation technique is the most suitable for the search for this parasite. An ultrasound examination provides important data on the liver parenchyma and bile ducts, as well as assisting in the collection of bile for direct evaluation.Exploratory laparotomy is another way to obtain a definitive diagnosis for platyinosomiasis. It allows for liver biopsy and collection of biliary material," she explained.

All these tests are recommended precisely because there are other diseases that present similar symptoms to platyinosomiasis in cats. Bladder stones, for example, are also capable of clogging the bile duct, leading the animal to manifest similar signs.

Platinosomosis: treatment should never be done on its own

The treatment of lizard disease in cats is done with the administration of specific dewormers for the elimination of the parasite. In case of complications, supportive therapy for the animal can also be adopted. Veterinarian Vanessa Zimbres warned about the importance of treatment being done with the help of a specialized professional: "It is important to note that common dewormers do not have the same effect on the body.Although they contain the same active ingredient, the dosage for treatment is much higher, as well as the frequency of administration, and should be prescribed according to the patient's weight."

Gecko disease: home-raised cats are less likely to contract platyinosomosis

Although treatment is available and feasible, the best thing to do is to prevent your cat from contracting gecko disease. Cats raised without access to the outdoors are less likely to contract the disease. Indoor raising has a number of health benefits for your pet, including increased life expectancy. The famous laps are dangerous and increase your cat's chances of contracting a number of diseases.other serious diseases such as FIV and FeLV.

Veterinarian Vanessa explained a little more about the best ways to prevent feline platinosomiasis: "Prevention is done by avoiding contact between cats and the parasite's intermediate hosts. This can be a little difficult given the species' predatory instinct, however, animals restricted to the residence are more difficult to contaminate. Special attention should be paid togiven to cats with external access."