Prevalence and Risk Factors of Lynxacarus radovskyi (Arachnida: Listrophoridae) Infestation on Cats in Ampang Kuala Lumpur Malaysia

Abstract

Ectoparasite infestation is a common health problem in cats and can lead to dermatological disorders, reduced welfare, and increased risk of pathogen transmission. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of ectoparasites and identify risk factors associated with Lynxacarus radovskyi (Arachnida: Listrophoridae) infestation on cats in Ampang, Kuala Lumpur. A total of 100 owned and free-roaming cats were examined. Hair samples were collected and ectoparasites were identified microscopically based on morphological characteristics. Secondary data were obtained from selected veterinary clinics in Ampang. Overall, 61% of cats were infested with at least one ectoparasite species, with Ctenocephalides felis being the most prevalent species. The prevalence of L. radovskyi infestation was 14%. Fisher’s Exact Test revealed significant associations between L. radovskyi infestation and breed, age, body condition score, and housing system, whereas gender was not significantly associated. Indoor or semi-indoor housing showed the strongest association with infestation (OR = 51.3), followed by higher body condition score (OR = 11.1), purebred status (OR = 7.5), and older age (OR = 6.5). These findings suggest that host characteristics and management practices play important roles in the occurrence of L. radovskyi infestation and should be considered in ectoparasite prevention and control strategies.