Study of fungal species in the uterus of cats referred to the clinic for ovariohysterectomy during different estrus cycles

چکیده مقاله

Reproductive system infections in cats, often caused by fungi, can negatively impact fertility and health, posing risks to humans as well. Fungi species exhibit variability in the uterus during different sexual cycles in animals due to the dynamic interactions between microbial communities and the hormonal changes associated with reproductive stages. However, studies on the frequency and prevalence of fungi in the uterine flora during different stages of the estrus cycle in cats are limited. This study aimed to identify fungal species that are present in the uteri of 24 cats referred for ovariohysterectomy during their estrus cycle. Swab samples were cultured on Sabouraud dextrose agar with chloramphenicol, and yeasts and molds were examined using macroscopic, microscopic, and slide culture techniques. Definitive diagnoses were made using polymerase chain reaction (PCR), with amplified fragments sequenced and compared to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) database. The abundance of different types of fungi at each estrus stage, across breeds, and age ranges were expressed as percentages. The Chi-Square test evaluated the relationship between age, breed, and fungal infection frequency. Results showed that 20 of the 24 cats (83.33%) had a fungal load, with Aspergillus niger, Rhizopus, Penicillium, and Candida albicans being the most common species. No significant relationships were found between age or breed and fungal load frequency. The findings of this study highlight a significant level of fungal species in the reproductive systems of cats. Although age and breed do not affect the presence of fungi, some differences may be seen in fungal species in various sexual stages of the cats. This underscores the urgent need for enhanced hygiene and management practices, effective treatment of genital diseases, and the maintenance of sanitary conditions for feline health.