# Hepatozoon spp. in stray cats from the metropolitan area of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

## TL;DR

This study found Hepatozoon felis in 75% of stray cats in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and identified four new genetic variations of the parasite.

## Contribution

The study reports the first detection of H. felis in Rio de Janeiro and identifies four previously unknown genetic polymorphisms.

## Key findings

- Hepatozoon felis DNA was detected in 21 out of 28 sampled cats.
- Four new genetic polymorphisms of H. felis were identified.
- This is the first report of H. felis in cats from the state of Rio de Janeiro.

## Abstract

In the last few years, the number of studies on feline hepatozoonosis has increased, but our knowledge on the actual species of Hepatozoon and/or different genotypes affecting felines is still incipient. At least three species, namely Hepatozoon felis, H. canis, and H. silvestris, have been isolated from domestic cats in various countries. Additionally, there are indications that other species and genotypes may affect felines in given geographic areas. This study was carried out to investigate the occurrence of Hepatozoon spp. in cats from Niterói, a municipality within the metropolitan area of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Individual blood samples were collected from 28 cats enrolled in a spaying/castration program. DNA was extracted from all samples and subjected to sequencing specific for Hepatozoon spp. DNA of H. felis was found in 21/28 cats (75%), and four genetic polymorphisms never described thus far were detected. This is the first report of H. felis in cats living in the State of Rio de Janeiro, and the present data confirm that H. felis is a species complex encompassing different genotypes circulating within cat populations. Further studies are warranted to investigate whether different genotypes have different biology or pathogenicity for felids.