The tick Dermacentor reticulatus is prevalent in the east of Austria and spreading throughout the country. This tick transmits the dog parasite Babesia canis.
There are no sandflies in Austria and whilst there are mosquitoes they do not transmit parasites. As there are no sandflies in Austria there is also no leishmaniosis.
Tapeworms are present throughout the whole country.
Endemic in central and eastern Europe.
Final hosts are foxes, dogs, raccoon dogs and cats, after ingestion of larval stages in intermediate hosts (mainly rodents). Dogs should be prevented from having access to raw offal and carcases. Pre-patent period is 28 days and patent period can be for several months.
Asymptomatic.
Morphology and size of proglottids on faecal samples. Egg detection with flotation, sedimentation or combined techniques (not very sensitive and Taenia-type eggs cannot be differentiated morphologically). Coproantigen detection enables detection of pre-patent infections 10 days p.i. with a sensitivity of more than 90% if more than 50 worms are present, lower if less than 50 worms are present. PCR/sequencing allows species identification (from isolated eggs or proglottids).
Red foxes, raccoon dogs and rarely dogs and cats may excrete eggs of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces. The accidental oral consumption of E. multilocularis eggs causes alveolar echinococcosis in humans, which if untreated has potentially fatal consequences and this is therefore of major public health concern. Infection with eggs results in the formation of cysts also in animals such as pigs, horses and dogs.
Spain, South of France, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Bosnia, Czech Republic, Turkey and Hungary.
Final hosts are dogs, cats and other carnivores. L3 larvae are transmitted by mosquito vector (intermediate host). Cutaneous infection. Pre-patent period is 27–34 weeks, patent period – several years.
Mostly asymptomatic, very rarely modules or other cutaneous lesions.
Requires 2–4 ml EDTA blood. Detection of microfilariae from 6.2 months post infection. Detection improved by concentration of microfilariae with Difil Test or Knott’s Test. Microfilariae can be speciated using morphological, biochemical or molecular species identification by the use of specialised laboratories.
Yes, usually manifests itself in humans as a single subcutaneous nodule or a single worm in the conjuctiva.
Further information on pet travel can be found on the Austrian Federal Office for Consumer Health website.
The tick Dermacentor reticulatus is prevalent in the east of Austria and spreading throughout the country. This tick transmits the dog parasite Babesia canis.
There are no sandflies in Austria and whilst there are mosquitoes they do not transmit parasites. As there are no sandflies in Austria there is also no leishmaniosis.
Tapeworms are present throughout the whole country.
Endemic in central and eastern Europe.
Final hosts are foxes, dogs, raccoon dogs and cats, after ingestion of larval stages in intermediate hosts (mainly rodents). Dogs should be prevented from having access to raw offal and carcases. Pre-patent period is 28 days and patent period can be for several months.
Asymptomatic.
Morphology and size of proglottids on faecal samples. Egg detection with flotation, sedimentation or combined techniques (not very sensitive and Taenia-type eggs cannot be differentiated morphologically). Coproantigen detection enables detection of pre-patent infections 10 days p.i. with a sensitivity of more than 90% if more than 50 worms are present, lower if less than 50 worms are present. PCR/sequencing allows species identification (from isolated eggs or proglottids).
Red foxes, raccoon dogs and rarely dogs and cats may excrete eggs of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces. The accidental oral consumption of E. multilocularis eggs causes alveolar echinococcosis in humans, which if untreated has potentially fatal consequences and this is therefore of major public health concern. Infection with eggs results in the formation of cysts also in animals such as pigs, horses and dogs.
Portugal, Spain, South of France, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Bosnia, Czech Republic, Turkey, Hungary, Bulgaria and Romania.
Final hosts are dogs, cats and other carnivores. Rarely occurs in cats. L3 stage larvae are transmitted by mosquito vectors (intermediate host). Cutaneous infection. In dogs, pre-patent period is 4–6 months, patent period is several years. In cats, pre-patent period is approximately 8 months.
Low worm burden often asymptomatic. Infections with D.immitis may cause a severe and potentially fatal disease in dogs and cats. First clinical manifestation 5–7 months after infection: loss of condition, dyspnoea, cough. Chronic disease: cough, tachycardia, "Caval syndrome", tachypnoea. See GL5: Control of Vector-borne Diseases in Dogs and Cats.
Detection of microfilaria earliest 6 months after infection in dogs. For cats, detection of microfilaria from 8 months p.i. may be negative as levels can be very low. Detection improved by concentration of microfilaria with Difil Test or Knott’s Test. Microfilariae can be speciated using morphological, biochemical or molecular species identification in specialised laboratories only. Circulating antigens are detected from 5 months after infection with a sensitivity around 90% and approximately 100% if one female worm or more are present, respectively.
D. immitis is a zoonotic parasite, however human infection is rare.
Spain, South of France, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Bosnia, Czech Republic, Turkey and Hungary.
Final hosts are dogs, cats and other carnivores. L3 larvae are transmitted by mosquito vector (intermediate host). Cutaneous infection. Pre-patent period is 27–34 weeks, patent period – several years.
Mostly asymptomatic, very rarely modules or other cutaneous lesions.
Requires 2–4 ml EDTA blood. Detection of microfilariae from 6.2 months post infection. Detection improved by concentration of microfilariae with Difil Test or Knott’s Test. Microfilariae can be speciated using morphological, biochemical or molecular species identification by the use of specialised laboratories.
Yes, usually manifests itself in humans as a single subcutaneous nodule or a single worm in the conjuctiva.
Italy, France (Dordogne) and southern Switzerland.
Dogs and cats probably via a dipteran arthropod vector. Pre-patent period about 3 weeks and patent period of months to years.
Blepharospasm and epiphora.
By detection of adult or larval stages from samples of the tear film from the surface of the conjunctiva.
Ixodidae or hard ticks are endemic throughout almost all of Europe, and there are more than 12 different species with varying biology and geographical distribution. Commonly found ticks are Ixodes ricinus, Rhipicephalus sanguineus and Dermacentor reticulatus. The main importance of ticks is their role as vectors of pathogenic agents which cause a range of tick-borne diseases (TBDs). Tick-borne diseases are detailed in ESCCAP Guideline 5: Control of Vector-borne diseases in Dogs and Cats.
Prevalent in the east of Austria.
Europe, from the Atlantic coast to Kazakhstan. Vector in dogs for Babesia canis.
Ticks are white with variegated brown splashes. Adult females are 3.8–4.2 mm unfed and 10 mm when engorged.
Further information on pet travel can be found on the Austrian Federal Office for Consumer Health website.
The tick Dermacentor reticulatus is prevalent in the east of Austria and spreading throughout the country. This tick transmits the dog parasite Babesia canis.
There are no sandflies in Austria and whilst there are mosquitoes they do not transmit parasites. As there are no sandflies in Austria there is also no leishmaniosis.
Tapeworms are present throughout the whole country.
Portugal, Spain, South of France, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Bosnia, Czech Republic, Turkey, Hungary, Bulgaria and Romania.
Final hosts are dogs, cats and other carnivores. Rarely occurs in cats. L3 stage larvae are transmitted by mosquito vectors (intermediate host). Cutaneous infection. In dogs, pre-patent period is 4–6 months, patent period is several years. In cats, pre-patent period is approximately 8 months.
Low worm burden often asymptomatic. Infections with D.immitis may cause a severe and potentially fatal disease in dogs and cats. First clinical manifestation 5–7 months after infection: loss of condition, dyspnoea, cough. Chronic disease: cough, tachycardia, "Caval syndrome", tachypnoea. See GL5: Control of Vector-borne Diseases in Dogs and Cats.
Detection of microfilaria earliest 6 months after infection in dogs. For cats, detection of microfilaria from 8 months p.i. may be negative as levels can be very low. Detection improved by concentration of microfilaria with Difil Test or Knott’s Test. Microfilariae can be speciated using morphological, biochemical or molecular species identification in specialised laboratories only. Circulating antigens are detected from 5 months after infection with a sensitivity around 90% and approximately 100% if one female worm or more are present, respectively.
D. immitis is a zoonotic parasite, however human infection is rare.
Spain, South of France, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Bosnia, Czech Republic, Turkey and Hungary.
Final hosts are dogs, cats and other carnivores. L3 larvae are transmitted by mosquito vector (intermediate host). Cutaneous infection. Pre-patent period is 27–34 weeks, patent period – several years.
Mostly asymptomatic, very rarely modules or other cutaneous lesions.
Requires 2–4 ml EDTA blood. Detection of microfilariae from 6.2 months post infection. Detection improved by concentration of microfilariae with Difil Test or Knott’s Test. Microfilariae can be speciated using morphological, biochemical or molecular species identification by the use of specialised laboratories.
Yes, usually manifests itself in humans as a single subcutaneous nodule or a single worm in the conjuctiva.
Italy, France (Dordogne) and southern Switzerland.
Dogs and cats probably via a dipteran arthropod vector. Pre-patent period about 3 weeks and patent period of months to years.
Blepharospasm and epiphora.
By detection of adult or larval stages from samples of the tear film from the surface of the conjunctiva.
Further information on pet travel can be found on the Austrian Federal Office for Consumer Health website.
The Azores are a low risk for canine vector borne diseases (CVBD). The risk of CVBD increases from north to south reflecting climatic and seasonal changes.
Note that the period of higher infection rates from CVBD starts in March and ends in October/November with the peak season from June/July to September. Be aware that these periods can vary considerably from the north to the south of the country, making it possible for year round transmission.
Note that there are scarce data relating to the Azores and it is possible that endo and ectoparasites from mainland Portugal are present including tapeworms, roundworms and enteric protozoans.
Further information about pet travel can be found on Portugal's National Authority for Animal Health website.
Central Portugal is considered a high risk for canine vector borne diseases (CVBD). The risk of CVBD increases from north to south reflecting climatic and seasonal changes.
Note that the period of higher infection rates from CVBD starts in March and ends in October/November with the peak season from June/July to September. Be aware that these periods can vary considerably from the north to the south of the country, making it possible for year round transmission.
A wide range of gastrointestinal parasites are found in Portugal. Special attention should be taken to control tapeworms, especiallyEchinococus granulosus, in the central and southern areas of the country.
Rhipicephalus sanguineus and Ixodes ricinus are found throughout the country.
Ixodidae or hard ticks are endemic throughout almost all of Europe, and there are more than 12 different species with varying biology and geographical distribution. Commonly found ticks are Ixodes ricinus, Rhipicephalus sanguineus and Dermacentor reticulatus. The main importance of ticks is their role as vectors of pathogenic agents which cause a range of tick-borne diseases (TBDs). Tick-borne diseases are detailed in ESCCAP Guideline 5: Control of Vector-borne diseases in Dogs and Cats.
Primarily a tick of southern Europe and warmer climates. More prevalent during spring and summer but may feed all year round. In northern European countries R. sanguineus will not normally survive outdoors but may complete its life cycle inside kennels and houses.
On dogs the tick is often found in the ears and between the toes. Immature stages prefer the hair of the neck.
These ticks are yellow, reddish or blackish brown in colour. Size is highly variable and the engorged females can be 12 mm in length.
A three-host tick widely distributed in Europe except in northern Scandinavia.
Can be found all over the body but the main predilection sites are the non-hairy and thin-skinned areas such as the face, ears, axillae, interdigital, inguinal and perineal regions. Heavy infestations may lead to anaemia. The tick bite wound may become infected or a micro abscess may develop as a reaction to the mouthparts if the tick is forcibly removed leaving the mouthparts embedded in the skin. Attached engorged female ticks measuring up to 1 cm long are easily seen.
Usually by identifying the tick on the animal. It is more difficult to detect the small larval and nymphal stages than the males (rarely found in the case of Ixodes) and the engorged adult females. Females can increase their weight up to 120 times as they engorge with blood prior to egg laying; when fully engorged a female tick can measure around 1 cm long and appears like a small bean hence their being called the "castor bean tick". There are different names in different countries.
Further information about pet travel can be found on Portugal's General Directorate of Food and Veterinary Medicine website.
Northern Portugal is considered a medium risk for canine vector borne diseases (CVBD). The risk of CVBD increases from north to south reflecting climatic and seasonal changes.
Note that the period of higher infection rates from CVBD starts in March and ends in October/November with the peak season from June/July to September. Be aware that these periods can vary considerably from the north to the south of the country, making it possible for year round transmission.
A wide range of gastrointestinal parasites are found in Portugal and special attention should be taken to control tapeworms.
Rhipicephalus sanguineus and Ixodes ricinus are found throughout the country.
Ixodidae or hard ticks are endemic throughout almost all of Europe, and there are more than 12 different species with varying biology and geographical distribution. Commonly found ticks are Ixodes ricinus, Rhipicephalus sanguineus and Dermacentor reticulatus. The main importance of ticks is their role as vectors of pathogenic agents which cause a range of tick-borne diseases (TBDs). Tick-borne diseases are detailed in ESCCAP Guideline 5: Control of Vector-borne diseases in Dogs and Cats.
Primarily a tick of southern Europe and warmer climates. More prevalent during spring and summer but may feed all year round. In northern European countries R. sanguineus will not normally survive outdoors but may complete its life cycle inside kennels and houses.
On dogs the tick is often found in the ears and between the toes. Immature stages prefer the hair of the neck.
These ticks are yellow, reddish or blackish brown in colour. Size is highly variable and the engorged females can be 12 mm in length.
A three-host tick widely distributed in Europe except in northern Scandinavia.
Can be found all over the body but the main predilection sites are the non-hairy and thin-skinned areas such as the face, ears, axillae, interdigital, inguinal and perineal regions. Heavy infestations may lead to anaemia. The tick bite wound may become infected or a micro abscess may develop as a reaction to the mouthparts if the tick is forcibly removed leaving the mouthparts embedded in the skin. Attached engorged female ticks measuring up to 1 cm long are easily seen.
Usually by identifying the tick on the animal. It is more difficult to detect the small larval and nymphal stages than the males (rarely found in the case of Ixodes) and the engorged adult females. Females can increase their weight up to 120 times as they engorge with blood prior to egg laying; when fully engorged a female tick can measure around 1 cm long and appears like a small bean hence their being called the "castor bean tick". There are different names in different countries.
Further information about pet travel can be found on Portugal's General Directorate of Food and Veterinary Medicine website.
Southern Portugal is considered a very high risk for canine vector borne diseases (CVBD). The risk of CVBD increases from north to south reflecting climatic and seasonal changes.
Note that the period of higher infection rates from CVBD starts in March and ends in October/November with the peak season from June/July to September. Be aware that these periods can vary considerably from the north to the south of the country, making it possible for year round transmission.
A wide range of gastrointestinal parasites are found in Portugal. Special attention should be taken to control tapeworms, especiallyEchinococus granulosus, in the central and southern areas of the country.
Rhipicephalus sanguineus and Ixodes ricinus are found throughout the country.
Note that there are scarce data relating to Madeira and it is possible that endo and ectoparasites from mainland Portugal are present including tapeworms, roundworms and enteric protozoans.
Ixodidae or hard ticks are endemic throughout almost all of Europe, and there are more than 12 different species with varying biology and geographical distribution. Commonly found ticks are Ixodes ricinus, Rhipicephalus sanguineus and Dermacentor reticulatus. The main importance of ticks is their role as vectors of pathogenic agents which cause a range of tick-borne diseases (TBDs). Tick-borne diseases are detailed in ESCCAP Guideline 5: Control of Vector-borne diseases in Dogs and Cats.
Primarily a tick of southern Europe and warmer climates. More prevalent during spring and summer but may feed all year round. In northern European countries R. sanguineus will not normally survive outdoors but may complete its life cycle inside kennels and houses.
On dogs the tick is often found in the ears and between the toes. Immature stages prefer the hair of the neck.
These ticks are yellow, reddish or blackish brown in colour. Size is highly variable and the engorged females can be 12 mm in length.
A three-host tick widely distributed in Europe except in northern Scandinavia.
Can be found all over the body but the main predilection sites are the non-hairy and thin-skinned areas such as the face, ears, axillae, interdigital, inguinal and perineal regions. Heavy infestations may lead to anaemia. The tick bite wound may become infected or a micro abscess may develop as a reaction to the mouthparts if the tick is forcibly removed leaving the mouthparts embedded in the skin. Attached engorged female ticks measuring up to 1 cm long are easily seen.
Usually by identifying the tick on the animal. It is more difficult to detect the small larval and nymphal stages than the males (rarely found in the case of Ixodes) and the engorged adult females. Females can increase their weight up to 120 times as they engorge with blood prior to egg laying; when fully engorged a female tick can measure around 1 cm long and appears like a small bean hence their being called the "castor bean tick". There are different names in different countries.
Further information about pet travel can be found on Portugal's General Directorate of Food and Veterinary Medicine website.
Everywhere in endemic foci.
Final hosts are foxes and dogs. Infective larvae are ingested within molluscs or paratenic host. Pre-patent period 40–49 days, patent period up to 5 years.
After an asymptomatic period, respiratory signs such as cough, tachypnoea and dyspnoea are most obvious. Occasionally signs of coagulopathy (e.g. subcutaneous haematomas anaemia) and neurological signs are observed. Sudden death can occur even in the absence of respiratory signs.
Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces using the Baermann method, or microscopic detection of larvae in bronchial lavage material. A commercial serological test to detect circulating A. vasorum is now available.
Focal geographical occurrence
Everywhere in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and foxes and infection is orally from larvae within mollusc or paratenic host. Pre-patent period is 3 weeks, patent period is up to 10 months.
Respiratory symptoms, coughing and possibly exercise intolerance.
Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces or bronchial lavage fluid by Baermann method or microscopic detection in bronchial lavage material.
Ixodidae or hard ticks are endemic throughout almost all of Europe, and there are more than 12 different species with varying biology and geographical distribution. Commonly found ticks are Ixodes ricinus, Rhipicephalus sanguineus and Dermacentor reticulatus. The main importance of ticks is their role as vectors of pathogenic agents which cause a range of tick-borne diseases (TBDs). Tick-borne diseases are detailed in ESCCAP Guideline 5: Control of Vector-borne diseases in Dogs and Cats.
Europe, from the Atlantic coast to Kazakhstan. Vector in dogs for Babesia canis.
Ticks are white with variegated brown splashes. Adult females are 3.8–4.2 mm unfed and 10 mm when engorged.
A three-host tick widely distributed in France (except in the south east). Vector in dogs for Borrelia burgdorferi (sensu lato).
A three-host tick widely distributed in Europe except in northern Scandinavia.
Can be found all over the body but the main predilection sites are the non-hairy and thin-skinned areas such as the face, ears, axillae, interdigital, inguinal and perineal regions. Heavy infestations may lead to anaemia. The tick bite wound may become infected or a micro abscess may develop as a reaction to the mouthparts if the tick is forcibly removed leaving the mouthparts embedded in the skin. Attached engorged female ticks measuring up to 1 cm long are easily seen.
Usually by identifying the tick on the animal. It is more difficult to detect the small larval and nymphal stages than the males (rarely found in the case of Ixodes) and the engorged adult females. Females can increase their weight up to 120 times as they engorge with blood prior to egg laying; when fully engorged a female tick can measure around 1 cm long and appears like a small bean hence their being called the "castor bean tick". There are different names in different countries.
Widespread in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and rarely red foxes. Intermediate hosts are domestic ruminants, primates and humans.
Asymptomatic in dogs. Infections in cattle, sheep and pigs do not show clinical signs.
Difficult as the adult tapeworm segments are sparsely shed and small. Identification is based on size (2.0–3.0 mm), ovoid in shape with a single genital pore.
Yes, one or both lungs can be affected in the human intermediate host. If in the liver, several hydatids may give rise to gross abdominal distention. If a cyst ruptures, there is risk of death from anaphylaxis.
Everywhere in Europe.
Dogs, cats and foxes after ingestion of larval stages in the intermediate host (cysticercus or coenurus). After a pre-patent period of 4–10 weeks and for a patent period from months to several years.
Asymptomatic except sometimes segments or proglottids are seen.
Egg detection by flotation of eggs from 3–5 g fresh or fixed faeces. Proglottids in faeces grossly visible. Taenia-type eggs in faeces (see Echinococcus for method of distinguishing Taenia-type eggs).
Everywhere in endemic foci.
Final hosts are foxes and dogs. Infective larvae are ingested within molluscs or paratenic host. Pre-patent period 40–49 days, patent period up to 5 years.
After an asymptomatic period, respiratory signs such as cough, tachypnoea and dyspnoea are most obvious. Occasionally signs of coagulopathy (e.g. subcutaneous haematomas anaemia) and neurological signs are observed. Sudden death can occur even in the absence of respiratory signs.
Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces using the Baermann method, or microscopic detection of larvae in bronchial lavage material. A commercial serological test to detect circulating A. vasorum is now available.
Focal geographical occurrence
Everywhere in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and foxes and infection is orally from larvae within mollusc or paratenic host. Pre-patent period is 3 weeks, patent period is up to 10 months.
Respiratory symptoms, coughing and possibly exercise intolerance.
Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces or bronchial lavage fluid by Baermann method or microscopic detection in bronchial lavage material.
Transmitted by fruitflies (Phortica variegata). A highly endemic foci in the centre of the Dordogne administrative department.
Italy, France (Dordogne) and southern Switzerland.
Dogs and cats probably via a dipteran arthropod vector. Pre-patent period about 3 weeks and patent period of months to years.
Blepharospasm and epiphora.
By detection of adult or larval stages from samples of the tear film from the surface of the conjunctiva.
Ixodidae or hard ticks are endemic throughout almost all of Europe, and there are more than 12 different species with varying biology and geographical distribution. Commonly found ticks are Ixodes ricinus, Rhipicephalus sanguineus and Dermacentor reticulatus. The main importance of ticks is their role as vectors of pathogenic agents which cause a range of tick-borne diseases (TBDs). Tick-borne diseases are detailed in ESCCAP Guideline 5: Control of Vector-borne diseases in Dogs and Cats.
Europe, from the Atlantic coast to Kazakhstan. Vector in dogs for Babesia canis.
Ticks are white with variegated brown splashes. Adult females are 3.8–4.2 mm unfed and 10 mm when engorged.
Transmitted by ticks (Dermacentor reticulatus). May be highly endemic in foci of south west France.
For ticks like Dermacentor reticulatus, there are usually two peaks of activity, one from March to June and a second from September to October. In the case of alveolar echinococcidiosis, dogs (and cats) are infested when they capture small rodents and there are no seasonal variations.
Endemic in central and eastern Europe.
Final hosts are foxes, dogs, raccoon dogs and cats, after ingestion of larval stages in intermediate hosts (mainly rodents). Dogs should be prevented from having access to raw offal and carcases. Pre-patent period is 28 days and patent period can be for several months.
Asymptomatic.
Morphology and size of proglottids on faecal samples. Egg detection with flotation, sedimentation or combined techniques (not very sensitive and Taenia-type eggs cannot be differentiated morphologically). Coproantigen detection enables detection of pre-patent infections 10 days p.i. with a sensitivity of more than 90% if more than 50 worms are present, lower if less than 50 worms are present. PCR/sequencing allows species identification (from isolated eggs or proglottids).
Red foxes, raccoon dogs and rarely dogs and cats may excrete eggs of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces. The accidental oral consumption of E. multilocularis eggs causes alveolar echinococcosis in humans, which if untreated has potentially fatal consequences and this is therefore of major public health concern. Infection with eggs results in the formation of cysts also in animals such as pigs, horses and dogs.
Everywhere in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and foxes and the route of infection via ingestion of embryonated eggs from soil or on fur. Larvae in milk or paratenic hosts. In utero from dam. Pre-patent period is variable, typically 21 days after prenatal infection; 27–35 days after lactogenic infection; 32–39 days after ingestion of eggs. Patent period 4–6 months except where immunity intervenes for example in pups.
Low burden asymptomatic, higher burden may appear as cachexia and pot-bellied appearance in pups. Heavy infection can cause intestinal blockage or intussusception. A low burden in older animals is unlikely to cause clinical signs.
Egg detection by flotation from 3–5 g fresh or fixed faeces. Coproantigen assays detect infections from immature and adult worms, and are not linked to egg production. This enables identification of infections during pre-patent periods and alleviates challenges of intermittent egg shedding associated with microscopic examinations.
Yes, children at greatest risk through ingesting soil bearing contaminated eggs.
Everywhere in endemic foci.
Final hosts are foxes and dogs. Infective larvae are ingested within molluscs or paratenic host. Pre-patent period 40–49 days, patent period up to 5 years.
After an asymptomatic period, respiratory signs such as cough, tachypnoea and dyspnoea are most obvious. Occasionally signs of coagulopathy (e.g. subcutaneous haematomas anaemia) and neurological signs are observed. Sudden death can occur even in the absence of respiratory signs.
Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces using the Baermann method, or microscopic detection of larvae in bronchial lavage material. A commercial serological test to detect circulating A. vasorum is now available.
Everywhere in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and foxes and infection is orally from larvae within mollusc or paratenic host. Pre-patent period is 3 weeks, patent period is up to 10 months.
Respiratory symptoms, coughing and possibly exercise intolerance.
Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces or bronchial lavage fluid by Baermann method or microscopic detection in bronchial lavage material.
Ixodidae or hard ticks are endemic throughout almost all of Europe, and there are more than 12 different species with varying biology and geographical distribution. Commonly found ticks are Ixodes ricinus, Rhipicephalus sanguineus and Dermacentor reticulatus. The main importance of ticks is their role as vectors of pathogenic agents which cause a range of tick-borne diseases (TBDs). Tick-borne diseases are detailed in ESCCAP Guideline 5: Control of Vector-borne diseases in Dogs and Cats.
Europe, from the Atlantic coast to Kazakhstan. Vector in dogs for Babesia canis.
Ticks are white with variegated brown splashes. Adult females are 3.8–4.2 mm unfed and 10 mm when engorged.
A three-host tick widely distributed in France (except in the south east). Vector in dogs for Borrelia burgdorferi (sensu lato).
A three-host tick widely distributed in Europe except in northern Scandinavia.
Can be found all over the body but the main predilection sites are the non-hairy and thin-skinned areas such as the face, ears, axillae, interdigital, inguinal and perineal regions. Heavy infestations may lead to anaemia. The tick bite wound may become infected or a micro abscess may develop as a reaction to the mouthparts if the tick is forcibly removed leaving the mouthparts embedded in the skin. Attached engorged female ticks measuring up to 1 cm long are easily seen.
Usually by identifying the tick on the animal. It is more difficult to detect the small larval and nymphal stages than the males (rarely found in the case of Ixodes) and the engorged adult females. Females can increase their weight up to 120 times as they engorge with blood prior to egg laying; when fully engorged a female tick can measure around 1 cm long and appears like a small bean hence their being called the "castor bean tick". There are different names in different countries.
Ticks, sandflies and mosquitoes are prevalent throughout south east France.
Widespread in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and rarely red foxes. Intermediate hosts are domestic ruminants, primates and humans.
Asymptomatic in dogs. Infections in cattle, sheep and pigs do not show clinical signs.
Difficult as the adult tapeworm segments are sparsely shed and small. Identification is based on size (2.0–3.0 mm), ovoid in shape with a single genital pore.
Yes, one or both lungs can be affected in the human intermediate host. If in the liver, several hydatids may give rise to gross abdominal distention. If a cyst ruptures, there is risk of death from anaphylaxis.
Ixodidae or hard ticks are endemic throughout almost all of Europe, and there are more than 12 different species with varying biology and geographical distribution. Commonly found ticks are Ixodes ricinus, Rhipicephalus sanguineus and Dermacentor reticulatus. The main importance of ticks is their role as vectors of pathogenic agents which cause a range of tick-borne diseases (TBDs). Tick-borne diseases are detailed in ESCCAP Guideline 5: Control of Vector-borne diseases in Dogs and Cats.
A three-host tick and an important vector of Babesia vogeli, Ehrlichia canis, Anaplasma platys and Hepatozoon canis.
Primarily a tick of southern Europe and warmer climates. More prevalent during spring and summer but may feed all year round. In northern European countries R. sanguineus will not normally survive outdoors but may complete its life cycle inside kennels and houses.
On dogs the tick is often found in the ears and between the toes. Immature stages prefer the hair of the neck.
These ticks are yellow, reddish or blackish brown in colour. Size is highly variable and the engorged females can be 12 mm in length.
Transmitted by sandflies which are present throughout the south east of France up to 600 metres above sea level in both urban and rural environments.
Transmitted by mosquitoes, including the tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus).
Transmitted by the ingestion of ticks (Rhipicephalus sanguineus).
For ticks like Dermacentor reticulatus, there are usually two peaks of activity, one from March to June and a second from September to October. In the case of alveolar echinococcidiosis, dogs (and cats) are infested when they capture small rodents and there are no seasonal variations.
Widespread in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and rarely red foxes. Intermediate hosts are domestic ruminants, primates and humans.
Asymptomatic in dogs. Infections in cattle, sheep and pigs do not show clinical signs.
Difficult as the adult tapeworm segments are sparsely shed and small. Identification is based on size (2.0–3.0 mm), ovoid in shape with a single genital pore.
Yes, one or both lungs can be affected in the human intermediate host. If in the liver, several hydatids may give rise to gross abdominal distention. If a cyst ruptures, there is risk of death from anaphylaxis.
Everywhere in endemic foci.
Final hosts are foxes and dogs. Infective larvae are ingested within molluscs or paratenic host. Pre-patent period 40–49 days, patent period up to 5 years.
After an asymptomatic period, respiratory signs such as cough, tachypnoea and dyspnoea are most obvious. Occasionally signs of coagulopathy (e.g. subcutaneous haematomas anaemia) and neurological signs are observed. Sudden death can occur even in the absence of respiratory signs.
Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces using the Baermann method, or microscopic detection of larvae in bronchial lavage material. A commercial serological test to detect circulating A. vasorum is now available.
Everywhere in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and foxes and infection is orally from larvae within mollusc or paratenic host. Pre-patent period is 3 weeks, patent period is up to 10 months.
Respiratory symptoms, coughing and possibly exercise intolerance.
Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces or bronchial lavage fluid by Baermann method or microscopic detection in bronchial lavage material.
Ixodidae or hard ticks are endemic throughout almost all of Europe, and there are more than 12 different species with varying biology and geographical distribution. Commonly found ticks are Ixodes ricinus, Rhipicephalus sanguineus and Dermacentor reticulatus. The main importance of ticks is their role as vectors of pathogenic agents which cause a range of tick-borne diseases (TBDs). Tick-borne diseases are detailed in ESCCAP Guideline 5: Control of Vector-borne diseases in Dogs and Cats.
Europe, from the Atlantic coast to Kazakhstan. Vector in dogs for Babesia canis.
Ticks are white with variegated brown splashes. Adult females are 3.8–4.2 mm unfed and 10 mm when engorged.
Transmitted by ticks (Dermacentor reticulatus). May be highly endemic in foci of south west France.
Ticks are found throughout Spain, active all year in the Canary Islands.
Mosquitoes are more abundant in areas of standing water and more active at dawn and dusk when exercising your dog should be avoided. Containers holding water indoors and outdoors are where females lay their eggs so ensure water in dog bowls is not allowed to stagnate. In the Canary Islands they are active all year round. Keep your dog indoors during dusk and dawn over the risk periods outlined above.
The transmission season of heartworm infection generally lasts all year round.
Further information about pet travel can be found on Spain's Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Environment website.
Ticks are found throughout Spain, most active in April to October in central Spain.
Sandflies are present in central Spain and the seasonal variation for greatest activity is from April to November.
Mosquitoes are more abundant in areas of standing water and more active at dawn and dusk when exercising your dog should be avoided. Containers holding water indoors and outdoors are where females lay their eggs so ensure water in dog bowls is not allowed to stagnate. In central Spain they are most active from April to November. Keep your dog indoors during dusk and dawn over the risk periods outlined above.
The transmission season of heartworm infection generally lasts from April to November.
Widespread in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and rarely red foxes. Intermediate hosts are domestic ruminants, primates and humans.
Asymptomatic in dogs. Infections in cattle, sheep and pigs do not show clinical signs.
Difficult as the adult tapeworm segments are sparsely shed and small. Identification is based on size (2.0–3.0 mm), ovoid in shape with a single genital pore.
Yes, one or both lungs can be affected in the human intermediate host. If in the liver, several hydatids may give rise to gross abdominal distention. If a cyst ruptures, there is risk of death from anaphylaxis.
Further information about pet travel can be found on Spain's Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food website.
Ticks are found throughout Spain, active in the autumn and spring in northwestern Spain.
Sandflies are present in northwestern Spain and the seasonal variation for greatest activity is from June to October.
Mosquitoes are more abundant in areas of standing water and more active at dawn and dusk when exercising your dog should be avoided. Containers holding water indoors and outdoors are where females lay their eggs so ensure water in dog bowls is not allowed to stagnate. In northwestern Spain they are most active from June to October. Keep your dog indoors during dusk and dawn over the risk periods outlined above.
Widespread in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and rarely red foxes. Intermediate hosts are domestic ruminants, primates and humans.
Asymptomatic in dogs. Infections in cattle, sheep and pigs do not show clinical signs.
Difficult as the adult tapeworm segments are sparsely shed and small. Identification is based on size (2.0–3.0 mm), ovoid in shape with a single genital pore.
Yes, one or both lungs can be affected in the human intermediate host. If in the liver, several hydatids may give rise to gross abdominal distention. If a cyst ruptures, there is risk of death from anaphylaxis.
Further information about pet travel can be found on Spain's Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food website.
Ticks are found throughout Spain, most active in April to October in southeastern Spain.
Sandflies are present in southeastern Spain and are active all year.
Mosquitoes are more abundant in areas of standing water and more active at dawn and dusk when exercising your dog should be avoided. Containers holding water indoors and outdoors are where females lay their eggs so ensure water in dog bowls is not allowed to stagnate. In southeastern Spain they are active all year round. Keep your dog indoors during dusk and dawn over the risk periods outlined above.
The transmission season of heartworm infection generally lasts all year round.
Widespread in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and rarely red foxes. Intermediate hosts are domestic ruminants, primates and humans.
Asymptomatic in dogs. Infections in cattle, sheep and pigs do not show clinical signs.
Difficult as the adult tapeworm segments are sparsely shed and small. Identification is based on size (2.0–3.0 mm), ovoid in shape with a single genital pore.
Yes, one or both lungs can be affected in the human intermediate host. If in the liver, several hydatids may give rise to gross abdominal distention. If a cyst ruptures, there is risk of death from anaphylaxis.
Further information about pet travel can be found on Spain's Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food website.
Ticks, sandflies and mosquitoes are prevalent throughout Italy.
Highly endemic regions include the central Italian region of LAZIO
Widespread in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and rarely red foxes. Intermediate hosts are domestic ruminants, primates and humans.
Asymptomatic in dogs. Infections in cattle, sheep and pigs do not show clinical signs.
Difficult as the adult tapeworm segments are sparsely shed and small. Identification is based on size (2.0–3.0 mm), ovoid in shape with a single genital pore.
Yes, one or both lungs can be affected in the human intermediate host. If in the liver, several hydatids may give rise to gross abdominal distention. If a cyst ruptures, there is risk of death from anaphylaxis.
Portugal, Spain, South of France, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Bosnia, Czech Republic, Turkey, Hungary, Bulgaria and Romania.
Final hosts are dogs, cats and other carnivores. Rarely occurs in cats. L3 stage larvae are transmitted by mosquito vectors (intermediate host). Cutaneous infection. In dogs, pre-patent period is 4–6 months, patent period is several years. In cats, pre-patent period is approximately 8 months.
Low worm burden often asymptomatic. Infections with D.immitis may cause a severe and potentially fatal disease in dogs and cats. First clinical manifestation 5–7 months after infection: loss of condition, dyspnoea, cough. Chronic disease: cough, tachycardia, "Caval syndrome", tachypnoea. See GL5: Control of Vector-borne Diseases in Dogs and Cats.
Detection of microfilaria earliest 6 months after infection in dogs. For cats, detection of microfilaria from 8 months p.i. may be negative as levels can be very low. Detection improved by concentration of microfilaria with Difil Test or Knott’s Test. Microfilariae can be speciated using morphological, biochemical or molecular species identification in specialised laboratories only. Circulating antigens are detected from 5 months after infection with a sensitivity around 90% and approximately 100% if one female worm or more are present, respectively.
D. immitis is a zoonotic parasite, however human infection is rare.
Spain, South of France, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Bosnia, Czech Republic, Turkey and Hungary.
Final hosts are dogs, cats and other carnivores. L3 larvae are transmitted by mosquito vector (intermediate host). Cutaneous infection. Pre-patent period is 27–34 weeks, patent period – several years.
Mostly asymptomatic, very rarely modules or other cutaneous lesions.
Requires 2–4 ml EDTA blood. Detection of microfilariae from 6.2 months post infection. Detection improved by concentration of microfilariae with Difil Test or Knott’s Test. Microfilariae can be speciated using morphological, biochemical or molecular species identification by the use of specialised laboratories.
Yes, usually manifests itself in humans as a single subcutaneous nodule or a single worm in the conjuctiva.
Transmitted by sandflies which are present throughout Italy up to 600 metres above sea level in both urban and rural environments.
The tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus) which transmits Dirofilaria is active throughout the year in ROME both day and night.
Further information on pet travel can be found on the Italian Ministry of Health website.
Ticks, sandflies and mosquitoes are prevalent throughout Italy. Deer ticks and sheep ticks are prevalent in the north.
Found in the far north of Italy near the border with Austria particularly the TRENTINO-ALTO ADIGE region. The tapeworm is transmitted by dogs and is extremely dangerous to humans.
Endemic in central and eastern Europe.
Final hosts are foxes, dogs, raccoon dogs and cats, after ingestion of larval stages in intermediate hosts (mainly rodents). Dogs should be prevented from having access to raw offal and carcases. Pre-patent period is 28 days and patent period can be for several months.
Asymptomatic.
Morphology and size of proglottids on faecal samples. Egg detection with flotation, sedimentation or combined techniques (not very sensitive and Taenia-type eggs cannot be differentiated morphologically). Coproantigen detection enables detection of pre-patent infections 10 days p.i. with a sensitivity of more than 90% if more than 50 worms are present, lower if less than 50 worms are present. PCR/sequencing allows species identification (from isolated eggs or proglottids).
Red foxes, raccoon dogs and rarely dogs and cats may excrete eggs of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces. The accidental oral consumption of E. multilocularis eggs causes alveolar echinococcosis in humans, which if untreated has potentially fatal consequences and this is therefore of major public health concern. Infection with eggs results in the formation of cysts also in animals such as pigs, horses and dogs.
Portugal, Spain, South of France, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Bosnia, Czech Republic, Turkey, Hungary, Bulgaria and Romania.
Final hosts are dogs, cats and other carnivores. Rarely occurs in cats. L3 stage larvae are transmitted by mosquito vectors (intermediate host). Cutaneous infection. In dogs, pre-patent period is 4–6 months, patent period is several years. In cats, pre-patent period is approximately 8 months.
Low worm burden often asymptomatic. Infections with D.immitis may cause a severe and potentially fatal disease in dogs and cats. First clinical manifestation 5–7 months after infection: loss of condition, dyspnoea, cough. Chronic disease: cough, tachycardia, "Caval syndrome", tachypnoea. See GL5: Control of Vector-borne Diseases in Dogs and Cats.
Detection of microfilaria earliest 6 months after infection in dogs. For cats, detection of microfilaria from 8 months p.i. may be negative as levels can be very low. Detection improved by concentration of microfilaria with Difil Test or Knott’s Test. Microfilariae can be speciated using morphological, biochemical or molecular species identification in specialised laboratories only. Circulating antigens are detected from 5 months after infection with a sensitivity around 90% and approximately 100% if one female worm or more are present, respectively.
D. immitis is a zoonotic parasite, however human infection is rare.
Spain, South of France, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Bosnia, Czech Republic, Turkey and Hungary.
Final hosts are dogs, cats and other carnivores. L3 larvae are transmitted by mosquito vector (intermediate host). Cutaneous infection. Pre-patent period is 27–34 weeks, patent period – several years.
Mostly asymptomatic, very rarely modules or other cutaneous lesions.
Requires 2–4 ml EDTA blood. Detection of microfilariae from 6.2 months post infection. Detection improved by concentration of microfilariae with Difil Test or Knott’s Test. Microfilariae can be speciated using morphological, biochemical or molecular species identification by the use of specialised laboratories.
Yes, usually manifests itself in humans as a single subcutaneous nodule or a single worm in the conjuctiva.
Transmitted by sandflies which are present throughout Italy up to 600 metres above sea level in both urban and rural environments.
Further information on pet travel can be found on the Italian Ministry of Health website.
Ticks, sandflies and mosquitoes are prevalent throughout Italy.
More prevalent in the south of the country. Noted and highly endemic regions include SARDINIA, SICILY, CAMPANIA, BASILICATA and CALABRIA.
Widespread in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and rarely red foxes. Intermediate hosts are domestic ruminants, primates and humans.
Asymptomatic in dogs. Infections in cattle, sheep and pigs do not show clinical signs.
Difficult as the adult tapeworm segments are sparsely shed and small. Identification is based on size (2.0–3.0 mm), ovoid in shape with a single genital pore.
Yes, one or both lungs can be affected in the human intermediate host. If in the liver, several hydatids may give rise to gross abdominal distention. If a cyst ruptures, there is risk of death from anaphylaxis.
Portugal, Spain, South of France, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Bosnia, Czech Republic, Turkey, Hungary, Bulgaria and Romania.
Final hosts are dogs, cats and other carnivores. Rarely occurs in cats. L3 stage larvae are transmitted by mosquito vectors (intermediate host). Cutaneous infection. In dogs, pre-patent period is 4–6 months, patent period is several years. In cats, pre-patent period is approximately 8 months.
Low worm burden often asymptomatic. Infections with D.immitis may cause a severe and potentially fatal disease in dogs and cats. First clinical manifestation 5–7 months after infection: loss of condition, dyspnoea, cough. Chronic disease: cough, tachycardia, "Caval syndrome", tachypnoea. See GL5: Control of Vector-borne Diseases in Dogs and Cats.
Detection of microfilaria earliest 6 months after infection in dogs. For cats, detection of microfilaria from 8 months p.i. may be negative as levels can be very low. Detection improved by concentration of microfilaria with Difil Test or Knott’s Test. Microfilariae can be speciated using morphological, biochemical or molecular species identification in specialised laboratories only. Circulating antigens are detected from 5 months after infection with a sensitivity around 90% and approximately 100% if one female worm or more are present, respectively.
D. immitis is a zoonotic parasite, however human infection is rare.
Spain, South of France, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Bosnia, Czech Republic, Turkey and Hungary.
Final hosts are dogs, cats and other carnivores. L3 larvae are transmitted by mosquito vector (intermediate host). Cutaneous infection. Pre-patent period is 27–34 weeks, patent period – several years.
Mostly asymptomatic, very rarely modules or other cutaneous lesions.
Requires 2–4 ml EDTA blood. Detection of microfilariae from 6.2 months post infection. Detection improved by concentration of microfilariae with Difil Test or Knott’s Test. Microfilariae can be speciated using morphological, biochemical or molecular species identification by the use of specialised laboratories.
Yes, usually manifests itself in humans as a single subcutaneous nodule or a single worm in the conjuctiva.
Transmitted by sandflies which are present throughout Italy up to 600 metres above sea level in both urban and rural environments.
Further information on pet travel can be found on the Italian Ministry of Health website.
Occurs sporadically.
Eastern Europe.
Dogs, cats, foxes, mink, wild carnivores and rarely humans.
Usually not evident.
Presence of eggs in faeces by the flotation method.
Yes, but rarely. One fatal incident was the result of consumption of inadequately cooked frogs’ legs. Intermediate hosts are frogs and freshwater snails.
Endemic in central and eastern Europe.
Final hosts are foxes, dogs, raccoon dogs and cats, after ingestion of larval stages in intermediate hosts (mainly rodents). Dogs should be prevented from having access to raw offal and carcases. Pre-patent period is 28 days and patent period can be for several months.
Asymptomatic.
Morphology and size of proglottids on faecal samples. Egg detection with flotation, sedimentation or combined techniques (not very sensitive and Taenia-type eggs cannot be differentiated morphologically). Coproantigen detection enables detection of pre-patent infections 10 days p.i. with a sensitivity of more than 90% if more than 50 worms are present, lower if less than 50 worms are present. PCR/sequencing allows species identification (from isolated eggs or proglottids).
Red foxes, raccoon dogs and rarely dogs and cats may excrete eggs of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces. The accidental oral consumption of E. multilocularis eggs causes alveolar echinococcosis in humans, which if untreated has potentially fatal consequences and this is therefore of major public health concern. Infection with eggs results in the formation of cysts also in animals such as pigs, horses and dogs.
Everywhere in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs, cats and foxes with ingestion of larval stages in meat or tissues of prey. Pre-patent period is 4–10 weeks with patent period of several years.
None reported.
Infective larvae are found in the abdominal cavity and liver.
Possible cases in wildlife.
Widespread in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and rarely red foxes. Intermediate hosts are domestic ruminants, primates and humans.
Asymptomatic in dogs. Infections in cattle, sheep and pigs do not show clinical signs.
Difficult as the adult tapeworm segments are sparsely shed and small. Identification is based on size (2.0–3.0 mm), ovoid in shape with a single genital pore.
Yes, one or both lungs can be affected in the human intermediate host. If in the liver, several hydatids may give rise to gross abdominal distention. If a cyst ruptures, there is risk of death from anaphylaxis.
Predominantly central and northern Europe.
Dogs, foxes and cats. Pre-patent period is about 3–4 weeks and patent period can be prolonged depending on immune status. Infection is by ingestion of embryonated eggs from soil or larvae from paratenic hosts.
Diarrhoea, weight loss and anaemia, may be acute or chronic signs.
Egg detection by flotation from 3–5 g fresh or fixed faeces. Coproantigen assays detect infections from immature and adult worms, and are not linked to egg production. This enables identification of infections during pre-patent periods and alleviates challenges of intermittent egg shedding associated with microscopic examinations.
Everywhere in Europe but most predominant in central and southern Europe.
Dogs by ingestion of embryonated eggs from the environment. Pre-patent period is 8 weeks and patent period is up to 18 months.
Asymptomatic but heavy infection associated with anaemia, diarrhoea and weight loss.
Egg detection by flotation from 3–5 g fresh or fixed faeces. Coproantigen assays detect infections from immature and adult worms, and are not linked to egg production. This enables identification of infections during pre-patent periods and alleviates challenges of intermittent egg shedding associated with microscopic examinations.
Everywhere in Europe but more predominant in southern Europe.
Final hosts are dogs, humans and cats with ingestion of embryonated eggs from soil or fur, larvae in milk or paratenic hosts. In utero from dam. Pre-patent period is variable from 9 days and patent period can be several months (3–15 months).
Bloody diarrhoea, dehydration and sometimes death.
Finding large numbers of the characteristic eggs in very young animals, usually in the first few weeks of life, are suggestive of strongyloidosis.
Yes, can cause several forms of disease: a) subcutaneous infection giving rise to an itching dermatitis, b) in the mucosa causing a chronic intestinal syndrome. Symptoms include sporadic diarrhoea, epigastric abdominal pain, heartburn, bloating and weight loss, c) mild transient form can induce mild coughing, and d) can occasionally induce neurological effects such as Gram-negative polymicrobial meningitis.
Occurs sporadically.
Everywhere in endemic foci.
Final hosts are foxes and dogs. Infective larvae are ingested within molluscs or paratenic host. Pre-patent period 40–49 days, patent period up to 5 years.
After an asymptomatic period, respiratory signs such as cough, tachypnoea and dyspnoea are most obvious. Occasionally signs of coagulopathy (e.g. subcutaneous haematomas anaemia) and neurological signs are observed. Sudden death can occur even in the absence of respiratory signs.
Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces using the Baermann method, or microscopic detection of larvae in bronchial lavage material. A commercial serological test to detect circulating A. vasorum is now available.
Imported cases only.
Portugal, Spain, South of France, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Bosnia, Czech Republic, Turkey, Hungary, Bulgaria and Romania.
Final hosts are dogs, cats and other carnivores. Rarely occurs in cats. L3 stage larvae are transmitted by mosquito vectors (intermediate host). Cutaneous infection. In dogs, pre-patent period is 4–6 months, patent period is several years. In cats, pre-patent period is approximately 8 months.
Low worm burden often asymptomatic. Infections with D.immitis may cause a severe and potentially fatal disease in dogs and cats. First clinical manifestation 5–7 months after infection: loss of condition, dyspnoea, cough. Chronic disease: cough, tachycardia, "Caval syndrome", tachypnoea. See GL5: Control of Vector-borne Diseases in Dogs and Cats.
Detection of microfilaria earliest 6 months after infection in dogs. For cats, detection of microfilaria from 8 months p.i. may be negative as levels can be very low. Detection improved by concentration of microfilaria with Difil Test or Knott’s Test. Microfilariae can be speciated using morphological, biochemical or molecular species identification in specialised laboratories only. Circulating antigens are detected from 5 months after infection with a sensitivity around 90% and approximately 100% if one female worm or more are present, respectively.
D. immitis is a zoonotic parasite, however human infection is rare.
Everywhere in Europe.
Final host is the cat, particularly strays, and intermediate stage larvae are found in molluscs. Cats are infected when they ingest an intermediate host. Pre-patent period is 7–9 weeks with patent period of several years.
Respiratory symptoms, coughing and possible exercise intolerance. There may be no signs (in a proportion of cats).
Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g of fresh faeces using the Baermann method or microscopic detection of larvae in bronchial lavage material.
Everywhere in Europe.
Final hosts are foxes, dogs and cats and infective larvae are ingested from the environment or from earthworms. Pre-patent period is 4 weeks and patent period Is 10–11 months.
Mild infections are usually asymptomatic. Heavy infection of C. hepatica can result in hepatic lesions and hepatic capillariosis is usually fatal. Capillaria philippinensis in the small intestine can cause fatal enteropathy.
Most infections are discovered at routine autopsy.
Yes, three species can infect man: C. philippinensis, C. hepatica and C. aerophila. Capillaria philippinensis infects the small intestine and is largely found in the Philippines with sporadic outbreaks in southern Europe. Capillaria hepatica infection is acquired through the ingestion of soil or via contaminated food or water. Human capillariosis from C. aerophila infection is very rare.
Everywhere in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and foxes and infection is orally from larvae within mollusc or paratenic host. Pre-patent period is 3 weeks, patent period is up to 10 months.
Respiratory symptoms, coughing and possibly exercise intolerance.
Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces or bronchial lavage fluid by Baermann method or microscopic detection in bronchial lavage material.
Spain, South of France, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Bosnia, Czech Republic, Turkey and Hungary.
Final hosts are dogs, cats and other carnivores. L3 larvae are transmitted by mosquito vector (intermediate host). Cutaneous infection. Pre-patent period is 27–34 weeks, patent period – several years.
Mostly asymptomatic, very rarely modules or other cutaneous lesions.
Requires 2–4 ml EDTA blood. Detection of microfilariae from 6.2 months post infection. Detection improved by concentration of microfilariae with Difil Test or Knott’s Test. Microfilariae can be speciated using morphological, biochemical or molecular species identification by the use of specialised laboratories.
Yes, usually manifests itself in humans as a single subcutaneous nodule or a single worm in the conjuctiva.
Italy, France (Dordogne) and southern Switzerland.
Dogs and cats probably via a dipteran arthropod vector. Pre-patent period about 3 weeks and patent period of months to years.
Blepharospasm and epiphora.
By detection of adult or larval stages from samples of the tear film from the surface of the conjunctiva.
Lice are dorso-ventrally flattened wingless insects. They cause direct damage to the skin of affected animals and sucking lice can cause anaemia. The dog chewing louseTrichodectes canis, can also act as an intermediate host for the tapeworm Dipylidium caninum. Lice are highly host-specific with two main species on dogs Trichodectes canis and Linognathus setosus, and only one species Felicola subrostratus on cats. The entire life cycle is spent on the host. Adult chewing and sucking lice lay individual eggs, called nits, and cement these to hair shafts. The entire life cycle takes approximately 4–6 weeks.
All over Europe but rare, more common in stray cats. The only species of louse that commonly occurs on cats.
Infestations found on the skin, face, pinnae and back resulting in a dull, ruffled coat with scaling, crust and alopecia.
These lice are coloured beige or yellow with brown bands. Adults are 1–1.5 mm in length. Eggs are laid on the fur and hatch in 10–12 days with adult stage reached in 2–3 weeks. Diagnosis from lice or eggs (nits).
Historic cases.
All over Europe rare except in Scandinavia where it is the predominant ectoparasite with chewing lice.
Skin lesions such as excoriation, military dermatitis or urticaria-like lesions and even necrotic skin lesions have been described. May cause anaemia in heavy infestation.
Primarily found in the head and neck areas and commonly under the collar. Long-eared dog breeds such as spaniel, basset and Afghan hounds are particularly susceptible.
Rare cases.
Sporadic over most of Europe except Scandinavia where lice are the predominant ectoparasite.
A harmful ectoparasite of dogs particularly in puppies and old or debilitated dogs. Intense pruritus, scratching, biting, sleeplessness, nervousness and a matted coat are typical of T. canis infestation. Damage to the skin from scratching can result in inflammation, excoriation, alopecia and secondary bacterial involvement.
Commonly found on the head, neck and tail attached to the base of hairs and feeding on tissue debris. Often congregates around body orifices or wounds seeking moisture. Diagnosis from lice or eggs (nits).
Ixodidae or hard ticks are endemic throughout almost all of Europe, and there are more than 12 different species with varying biology and geographical distribution. Commonly found ticks are Ixodes ricinus, Rhipicephalus sanguineus and Dermacentor reticulatus. The main importance of ticks is their role as vectors of pathogenic agents which cause a range of tick-borne diseases (TBDs). Tick-borne diseases are detailed in ESCCAP Guideline 5: Control of Vector-borne diseases in Dogs and Cats.
Europe, from the Atlantic coast to Kazakhstan. Vector in dogs for Babesia canis.
Ticks are white with variegated brown splashes. Adult females are 3.8–4.2 mm unfed and 10 mm when engorged.
Imported cases only.
Primarily a tick of southern Europe and warmer climates. More prevalent during spring and summer but may feed all year round. In northern European countries R. sanguineus will not normally survive outdoors but may complete its life cycle inside kennels and houses.
On dogs the tick is often found in the ears and between the toes. Immature stages prefer the hair of the neck.
These ticks are yellow, reddish or blackish brown in colour. Size is highly variable and the engorged females can be 12 mm in length.
Imported cases only.
Imported cases only. No evidence of vectors.
Imported and transplacentally transmitted cases.
Endemic in central and eastern Europe.
Final hosts are foxes, dogs, raccoon dogs and cats, after ingestion of larval stages in intermediate hosts (mainly rodents). Dogs should be prevented from having access to raw offal and carcases. Pre-patent period is 28 days and patent period can be for several months.
Asymptomatic.
Morphology and size of proglottids on faecal samples. Egg detection with flotation, sedimentation or combined techniques (not very sensitive and Taenia-type eggs cannot be differentiated morphologically). Coproantigen detection enables detection of pre-patent infections 10 days p.i. with a sensitivity of more than 90% if more than 50 worms are present, lower if less than 50 worms are present. PCR/sequencing allows species identification (from isolated eggs or proglottids).
Red foxes, raccoon dogs and rarely dogs and cats may excrete eggs of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces. The accidental oral consumption of E. multilocularis eggs causes alveolar echinococcosis in humans, which if untreated has potentially fatal consequences and this is therefore of major public health concern. Infection with eggs results in the formation of cysts also in animals such as pigs, horses and dogs.
Everywhere in endemic foci.
Final hosts are foxes and dogs. Infective larvae are ingested within molluscs or paratenic host. Pre-patent period 40–49 days, patent period up to 5 years.
After an asymptomatic period, respiratory signs such as cough, tachypnoea and dyspnoea are most obvious. Occasionally signs of coagulopathy (e.g. subcutaneous haematomas anaemia) and neurological signs are observed. Sudden death can occur even in the absence of respiratory signs.
Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces using the Baermann method, or microscopic detection of larvae in bronchial lavage material. A commercial serological test to detect circulating A. vasorum is now available.
Everywhere in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and foxes and infection is orally from larvae within mollusc or paratenic host. Pre-patent period is 3 weeks, patent period is up to 10 months.
Respiratory symptoms, coughing and possibly exercise intolerance.
Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces or bronchial lavage fluid by Baermann method or microscopic detection in bronchial lavage material.
Ixodidae or hard ticks are endemic throughout almost all of Europe, and there are more than 12 different species with varying biology and geographical distribution. Commonly found ticks are Ixodes ricinus, Rhipicephalus sanguineus and Dermacentor reticulatus. The main importance of ticks is their role as vectors of pathogenic agents which cause a range of tick-borne diseases (TBDs). Tick-borne diseases are detailed in ESCCAP Guideline 5: Control of Vector-borne diseases in Dogs and Cats.
A three-host tick widely distributed in Europe except in northern Scandinavia.
Can be found all over the body but the main predilection sites are the non-hairy and thin-skinned areas such as the face, ears, axillae, interdigital, inguinal and perineal regions. Heavy infestations may lead to anaemia. The tick bite wound may become infected or a micro abscess may develop as a reaction to the mouthparts if the tick is forcibly removed leaving the mouthparts embedded in the skin. Attached engorged female ticks measuring up to 1 cm long are easily seen.
Usually by identifying the tick on the animal. It is more difficult to detect the small larval and nymphal stages than the males (rarely found in the case of Ixodes) and the engorged adult females. Females can increase their weight up to 120 times as they engorge with blood prior to egg laying; when fully engorged a female tick can measure around 1 cm long and appears like a small bean hence their being called the "castor bean tick". There are different names in different countries.
Echinococcus multilocularis has been found in the very northeast of the country in Groningen and Drenthe.
Endemic in central and eastern Europe.
Final hosts are foxes, dogs, raccoon dogs and cats, after ingestion of larval stages in intermediate hosts (mainly rodents). Dogs should be prevented from having access to raw offal and carcases. Pre-patent period is 28 days and patent period can be for several months.
Asymptomatic.
Morphology and size of proglottids on faecal samples. Egg detection with flotation, sedimentation or combined techniques (not very sensitive and Taenia-type eggs cannot be differentiated morphologically). Coproantigen detection enables detection of pre-patent infections 10 days p.i. with a sensitivity of more than 90% if more than 50 worms are present, lower if less than 50 worms are present. PCR/sequencing allows species identification (from isolated eggs or proglottids).
Red foxes, raccoon dogs and rarely dogs and cats may excrete eggs of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces. The accidental oral consumption of E. multilocularis eggs causes alveolar echinococcosis in humans, which if untreated has potentially fatal consequences and this is therefore of major public health concern. Infection with eggs results in the formation of cysts also in animals such as pigs, horses and dogs.
Further information on pet travel can be found on the following websites:
https://www.nvwa.nl/onderwerpen/huisdieren-en-reizen
Prevalent in the south of Holland in the province of Limburg.
Endemic in central and eastern Europe.
Final hosts are foxes, dogs, raccoon dogs and cats, after ingestion of larval stages in intermediate hosts (mainly rodents). Dogs should be prevented from having access to raw offal and carcases. Pre-patent period is 28 days and patent period can be for several months.
Asymptomatic.
Morphology and size of proglottids on faecal samples. Egg detection with flotation, sedimentation or combined techniques (not very sensitive and Taenia-type eggs cannot be differentiated morphologically). Coproantigen detection enables detection of pre-patent infections 10 days p.i. with a sensitivity of more than 90% if more than 50 worms are present, lower if less than 50 worms are present. PCR/sequencing allows species identification (from isolated eggs or proglottids).
Red foxes, raccoon dogs and rarely dogs and cats may excrete eggs of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces. The accidental oral consumption of E. multilocularis eggs causes alveolar echinococcosis in humans, which if untreated has potentially fatal consequences and this is therefore of major public health concern. Infection with eggs results in the formation of cysts also in animals such as pigs, horses and dogs.
Further information on pet travel can be found on the following websites:
https://www.nvwa.nl/onderwerpen/huisdieren-en-reizen
https://www.licg.nl/invoereisen-per-land-europa/
Further information on pet travel can be found on the following websites:
https://www.nvwa.nl/onderwerpen/huisdieren-en-reizen
Widespread in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and rarely red foxes. Intermediate hosts are domestic ruminants, primates and humans.
Asymptomatic in dogs. Infections in cattle, sheep and pigs do not show clinical signs.
Difficult as the adult tapeworm segments are sparsely shed and small. Identification is based on size (2.0–3.0 mm), ovoid in shape with a single genital pore.
Yes, one or both lungs can be affected in the human intermediate host. If in the liver, several hydatids may give rise to gross abdominal distention. If a cyst ruptures, there is risk of death from anaphylaxis.
Occurs in foxes near the border with Austria and in the northern part of the country.
Extremely dangerous to humans.
Endemic in central and eastern Europe.
Final hosts are foxes, dogs, raccoon dogs and cats, after ingestion of larval stages in intermediate hosts (mainly rodents). Dogs should be prevented from having access to raw offal and carcases. Pre-patent period is 28 days and patent period can be for several months.
Asymptomatic.
Morphology and size of proglottids on faecal samples. Egg detection with flotation, sedimentation or combined techniques (not very sensitive and Taenia-type eggs cannot be differentiated morphologically). Coproantigen detection enables detection of pre-patent infections 10 days p.i. with a sensitivity of more than 90% if more than 50 worms are present, lower if less than 50 worms are present. PCR/sequencing allows species identification (from isolated eggs or proglottids).
Red foxes, raccoon dogs and rarely dogs and cats may excrete eggs of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces. The accidental oral consumption of E. multilocularis eggs causes alveolar echinococcosis in humans, which if untreated has potentially fatal consequences and this is therefore of major public health concern. Infection with eggs results in the formation of cysts also in animals such as pigs, horses and dogs.
Mosquito species carrying Dirofilaria immitis have been recorded. In Hungary this filarioid worm occurs rarely in certain areas, mainly along the Tisza river in the eastern part of the country.
Portugal, Spain, South of France, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Bosnia, Czech Republic, Turkey, Hungary, Bulgaria and Romania.
Final hosts are dogs, cats and other carnivores. Rarely occurs in cats. L3 stage larvae are transmitted by mosquito vectors (intermediate host). Cutaneous infection. In dogs, pre-patent period is 4–6 months, patent period is several years. In cats, pre-patent period is approximately 8 months.
Low worm burden often asymptomatic. Infections with D.immitis may cause a severe and potentially fatal disease in dogs and cats. First clinical manifestation 5–7 months after infection: loss of condition, dyspnoea, cough. Chronic disease: cough, tachycardia, "Caval syndrome", tachypnoea. See GL5: Control of Vector-borne Diseases in Dogs and Cats.
Detection of microfilaria earliest 6 months after infection in dogs. For cats, detection of microfilaria from 8 months p.i. may be negative as levels can be very low. Detection improved by concentration of microfilaria with Difil Test or Knott’s Test. Microfilariae can be speciated using morphological, biochemical or molecular species identification in specialised laboratories only. Circulating antigens are detected from 5 months after infection with a sensitivity around 90% and approximately 100% if one female worm or more are present, respectively.
D. immitis is a zoonotic parasite, however human infection is rare.
Mosquito species carrying Dirofilaria repens have been recorded. In Hungary the filarioid worm is frequent.
Spain, South of France, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Bosnia, Czech Republic, Turkey and Hungary.
Final hosts are dogs, cats and other carnivores. L3 larvae are transmitted by mosquito vector (intermediate host). Cutaneous infection. Pre-patent period is 27–34 weeks, patent period – several years.
Mostly asymptomatic, very rarely modules or other cutaneous lesions.
Requires 2–4 ml EDTA blood. Detection of microfilariae from 6.2 months post infection. Detection improved by concentration of microfilariae with Difil Test or Knott’s Test. Microfilariae can be speciated using morphological, biochemical or molecular species identification by the use of specialised laboratories.
Yes, usually manifests itself in humans as a single subcutaneous nodule or a single worm in the conjuctiva.
Further information on pet travel can be found on the Hungarian National Food Chain Safety Agency website.
Endemic in central and eastern Europe.
Final hosts are foxes, dogs, raccoon dogs and cats, after ingestion of larval stages in intermediate hosts (mainly rodents). Dogs should be prevented from having access to raw offal and carcases. Pre-patent period is 28 days and patent period can be for several months.
Asymptomatic.
Morphology and size of proglottids on faecal samples. Egg detection with flotation, sedimentation or combined techniques (not very sensitive and Taenia-type eggs cannot be differentiated morphologically). Coproantigen detection enables detection of pre-patent infections 10 days p.i. with a sensitivity of more than 90% if more than 50 worms are present, lower if less than 50 worms are present. PCR/sequencing allows species identification (from isolated eggs or proglottids).
Red foxes, raccoon dogs and rarely dogs and cats may excrete eggs of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces. The accidental oral consumption of E. multilocularis eggs causes alveolar echinococcosis in humans, which if untreated has potentially fatal consequences and this is therefore of major public health concern. Infection with eggs results in the formation of cysts also in animals such as pigs, horses and dogs.
Spain, South of France, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Bosnia, Czech Republic, Turkey and Hungary.
Final hosts are dogs, cats and other carnivores. L3 larvae are transmitted by mosquito vector (intermediate host). Cutaneous infection. Pre-patent period is 27–34 weeks, patent period – several years.
Mostly asymptomatic, very rarely modules or other cutaneous lesions.
Requires 2–4 ml EDTA blood. Detection of microfilariae from 6.2 months post infection. Detection improved by concentration of microfilariae with Difil Test or Knott’s Test. Microfilariae can be speciated using morphological, biochemical or molecular species identification by the use of specialised laboratories.
Yes, usually manifests itself in humans as a single subcutaneous nodule or a single worm in the conjuctiva.
Endemic in central and eastern Europe.
Final hosts are foxes, dogs, raccoon dogs and cats, after ingestion of larval stages in intermediate hosts (mainly rodents). Dogs should be prevented from having access to raw offal and carcases. Pre-patent period is 28 days and patent period can be for several months.
Asymptomatic.
Morphology and size of proglottids on faecal samples. Egg detection with flotation, sedimentation or combined techniques (not very sensitive and Taenia-type eggs cannot be differentiated morphologically). Coproantigen detection enables detection of pre-patent infections 10 days p.i. with a sensitivity of more than 90% if more than 50 worms are present, lower if less than 50 worms are present. PCR/sequencing allows species identification (from isolated eggs or proglottids).
Red foxes, raccoon dogs and rarely dogs and cats may excrete eggs of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces. The accidental oral consumption of E. multilocularis eggs causes alveolar echinococcosis in humans, which if untreated has potentially fatal consequences and this is therefore of major public health concern. Infection with eggs results in the formation of cysts also in animals such as pigs, horses and dogs.
Further information on pet travel can be found on Luxembourg's government website.
Mainland Norway is currently considered free of rabies and Echinoccocus multilocularis.
Ixodidae or hard ticks are endemic throughout almost all of Europe, and there are more than 12 different species with varying biology and geographical distribution. Commonly found ticks are Ixodes ricinus, Rhipicephalus sanguineus and Dermacentor reticulatus. The main importance of ticks is their role as vectors of pathogenic agents which cause a range of tick-borne diseases (TBDs). Tick-borne diseases are detailed in ESCCAP Guideline 5: Control of Vector-borne diseases in Dogs and Cats.
In Western Norway in particular Ixodes ricinus is a problem but is not currently widely recognised as a vector for Babesiosis.
A three-host tick widely distributed in Europe except in northern Scandinavia.
Can be found all over the body but the main predilection sites are the non-hairy and thin-skinned areas such as the face, ears, axillae, interdigital, inguinal and perineal regions. Heavy infestations may lead to anaemia. The tick bite wound may become infected or a micro abscess may develop as a reaction to the mouthparts if the tick is forcibly removed leaving the mouthparts embedded in the skin. Attached engorged female ticks measuring up to 1 cm long are easily seen.
Usually by identifying the tick on the animal. It is more difficult to detect the small larval and nymphal stages than the males (rarely found in the case of Ixodes) and the engorged adult females. Females can increase their weight up to 120 times as they engorge with blood prior to egg laying; when fully engorged a female tick can measure around 1 cm long and appears like a small bean hence their being called the "castor bean tick". There are different names in different countries.
The Norwegian food safety authority has more information in English and Norwegian:
http://www.mattilsynet.no/language/english/animals/travelling_with_pets/
Both rabies and Echinoccocus multilocularis are established on the island.
Endemic in central and eastern Europe.
Final hosts are foxes, dogs, raccoon dogs and cats, after ingestion of larval stages in intermediate hosts (mainly rodents). Dogs should be prevented from having access to raw offal and carcases. Pre-patent period is 28 days and patent period can be for several months.
Asymptomatic.
Morphology and size of proglottids on faecal samples. Egg detection with flotation, sedimentation or combined techniques (not very sensitive and Taenia-type eggs cannot be differentiated morphologically). Coproantigen detection enables detection of pre-patent infections 10 days p.i. with a sensitivity of more than 90% if more than 50 worms are present, lower if less than 50 worms are present. PCR/sequencing allows species identification (from isolated eggs or proglottids).
Red foxes, raccoon dogs and rarely dogs and cats may excrete eggs of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces. The accidental oral consumption of E. multilocularis eggs causes alveolar echinococcosis in humans, which if untreated has potentially fatal consequences and this is therefore of major public health concern. Infection with eggs results in the formation of cysts also in animals such as pigs, horses and dogs.
The Norwegian food safety authority has more information in English and Norwegian:
http://www.mattilsynet.no/language/english/animals/travelling_with_pets/
Endemic
Endemic in central and eastern Europe.
Final hosts are foxes, dogs, raccoon dogs and cats, after ingestion of larval stages in intermediate hosts (mainly rodents). Dogs should be prevented from having access to raw offal and carcases. Pre-patent period is 28 days and patent period can be for several months.
Asymptomatic.
Morphology and size of proglottids on faecal samples. Egg detection with flotation, sedimentation or combined techniques (not very sensitive and Taenia-type eggs cannot be differentiated morphologically). Coproantigen detection enables detection of pre-patent infections 10 days p.i. with a sensitivity of more than 90% if more than 50 worms are present, lower if less than 50 worms are present. PCR/sequencing allows species identification (from isolated eggs or proglottids).
Red foxes, raccoon dogs and rarely dogs and cats may excrete eggs of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces. The accidental oral consumption of E. multilocularis eggs causes alveolar echinococcosis in humans, which if untreated has potentially fatal consequences and this is therefore of major public health concern. Infection with eggs results in the formation of cysts also in animals such as pigs, horses and dogs.
Focal geographical occurrence
Everywhere in endemic foci.
Final hosts are foxes and dogs. Infective larvae are ingested within molluscs or paratenic host. Pre-patent period 40–49 days, patent period up to 5 years.
After an asymptomatic period, respiratory signs such as cough, tachypnoea and dyspnoea are most obvious. Occasionally signs of coagulopathy (e.g. subcutaneous haematomas anaemia) and neurological signs are observed. Sudden death can occur even in the absence of respiratory signs.
Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces using the Baermann method, or microscopic detection of larvae in bronchial lavage material. A commercial serological test to detect circulating A. vasorum is now available.
Focal geographical occurrence
Everywhere in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and foxes and infection is orally from larvae within mollusc or paratenic host. Pre-patent period is 3 weeks, patent period is up to 10 months.
Respiratory symptoms, coughing and possibly exercise intolerance.
Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces or bronchial lavage fluid by Baermann method or microscopic detection in bronchial lavage material.
Ixodidae or hard ticks are endemic throughout almost all of Europe, and there are more than 12 different species with varying biology and geographical distribution. Commonly found ticks are Ixodes ricinus, Rhipicephalus sanguineus and Dermacentor reticulatus. The main importance of ticks is their role as vectors of pathogenic agents which cause a range of tick-borne diseases (TBDs). Tick-borne diseases are detailed in ESCCAP Guideline 5: Control of Vector-borne diseases in Dogs and Cats.
Ixodes spp have peak activity in late spring and autumn
A three-host tick widely distributed in Europe except in northern Scandinavia.
Can be found all over the body but the main predilection sites are the non-hairy and thin-skinned areas such as the face, ears, axillae, interdigital, inguinal and perineal regions. Heavy infestations may lead to anaemia. The tick bite wound may become infected or a micro abscess may develop as a reaction to the mouthparts if the tick is forcibly removed leaving the mouthparts embedded in the skin. Attached engorged female ticks measuring up to 1 cm long are easily seen.
Usually by identifying the tick on the animal. It is more difficult to detect the small larval and nymphal stages than the males (rarely found in the case of Ixodes) and the engorged adult females. Females can increase their weight up to 120 times as they engorge with blood prior to egg laying; when fully engorged a female tick can measure around 1 cm long and appears like a small bean hence their being called the "castor bean tick". There are different names in different countries.
Has been shown to be mainly present in southern, south western and some north eastern areas as shown on the map
Europe, from the Atlantic coast to Kazakhstan. Vector in dogs for Babesia canis.
Ticks are white with variegated brown splashes. Adult females are 3.8–4.2 mm unfed and 10 mm when engorged.
Further information about pet travel can be found on Germany's Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture website.
Ticks occur throughout Germany.
Endemic
Endemic in central and eastern Europe.
Final hosts are foxes, dogs, raccoon dogs and cats, after ingestion of larval stages in intermediate hosts (mainly rodents). Dogs should be prevented from having access to raw offal and carcases. Pre-patent period is 28 days and patent period can be for several months.
Asymptomatic.
Morphology and size of proglottids on faecal samples. Egg detection with flotation, sedimentation or combined techniques (not very sensitive and Taenia-type eggs cannot be differentiated morphologically). Coproantigen detection enables detection of pre-patent infections 10 days p.i. with a sensitivity of more than 90% if more than 50 worms are present, lower if less than 50 worms are present. PCR/sequencing allows species identification (from isolated eggs or proglottids).
Red foxes, raccoon dogs and rarely dogs and cats may excrete eggs of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces. The accidental oral consumption of E. multilocularis eggs causes alveolar echinococcosis in humans, which if untreated has potentially fatal consequences and this is therefore of major public health concern. Infection with eggs results in the formation of cysts also in animals such as pigs, horses and dogs.
Focal geographical occurrence
Everywhere in endemic foci.
Final hosts are foxes and dogs. Infective larvae are ingested within molluscs or paratenic host. Pre-patent period 40–49 days, patent period up to 5 years.
After an asymptomatic period, respiratory signs such as cough, tachypnoea and dyspnoea are most obvious. Occasionally signs of coagulopathy (e.g. subcutaneous haematomas anaemia) and neurological signs are observed. Sudden death can occur even in the absence of respiratory signs.
Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces using the Baermann method, or microscopic detection of larvae in bronchial lavage material. A commercial serological test to detect circulating A. vasorum is now available.
Focal geographical occurrence
Everywhere in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and foxes and infection is orally from larvae within mollusc or paratenic host. Pre-patent period is 3 weeks, patent period is up to 10 months.
Respiratory symptoms, coughing and possibly exercise intolerance.
Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces or bronchial lavage fluid by Baermann method or microscopic detection in bronchial lavage material.
Ixodidae or hard ticks are endemic throughout almost all of Europe, and there are more than 12 different species with varying biology and geographical distribution. Commonly found ticks are Ixodes ricinus, Rhipicephalus sanguineus and Dermacentor reticulatus. The main importance of ticks is their role as vectors of pathogenic agents which cause a range of tick-borne diseases (TBDs). Tick-borne diseases are detailed in ESCCAP Guideline 5: Control of Vector-borne diseases in Dogs and Cats.
Ixodes sps have peak activity in late spring and autumn
A three-host tick widely distributed in Europe except in northern Scandinavia.
Can be found all over the body but the main predilection sites are the non-hairy and thin-skinned areas such as the face, ears, axillae, interdigital, inguinal and perineal regions. Heavy infestations may lead to anaemia. The tick bite wound may become infected or a micro abscess may develop as a reaction to the mouthparts if the tick is forcibly removed leaving the mouthparts embedded in the skin. Attached engorged female ticks measuring up to 1 cm long are easily seen.
Usually by identifying the tick on the animal. It is more difficult to detect the small larval and nymphal stages than the males (rarely found in the case of Ixodes) and the engorged adult females. Females can increase their weight up to 120 times as they engorge with blood prior to egg laying; when fully engorged a female tick can measure around 1 cm long and appears like a small bean hence their being called the "castor bean tick". There are different names in different countries.
Further information about pet travel can be found on Germany's Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture website.
Endemic
Endemic in central and eastern Europe.
Final hosts are foxes, dogs, raccoon dogs and cats, after ingestion of larval stages in intermediate hosts (mainly rodents). Dogs should be prevented from having access to raw offal and carcases. Pre-patent period is 28 days and patent period can be for several months.
Asymptomatic.
Morphology and size of proglottids on faecal samples. Egg detection with flotation, sedimentation or combined techniques (not very sensitive and Taenia-type eggs cannot be differentiated morphologically). Coproantigen detection enables detection of pre-patent infections 10 days p.i. with a sensitivity of more than 90% if more than 50 worms are present, lower if less than 50 worms are present. PCR/sequencing allows species identification (from isolated eggs or proglottids).
Red foxes, raccoon dogs and rarely dogs and cats may excrete eggs of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces. The accidental oral consumption of E. multilocularis eggs causes alveolar echinococcosis in humans, which if untreated has potentially fatal consequences and this is therefore of major public health concern. Infection with eggs results in the formation of cysts also in animals such as pigs, horses and dogs.
Focal geographical occurrence
Everywhere in endemic foci.
Final hosts are foxes and dogs. Infective larvae are ingested within molluscs or paratenic host. Pre-patent period 40–49 days, patent period up to 5 years.
After an asymptomatic period, respiratory signs such as cough, tachypnoea and dyspnoea are most obvious. Occasionally signs of coagulopathy (e.g. subcutaneous haematomas anaemia) and neurological signs are observed. Sudden death can occur even in the absence of respiratory signs.
Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces using the Baermann method, or microscopic detection of larvae in bronchial lavage material. A commercial serological test to detect circulating A. vasorum is now available.
Focal geographical occurrence
Everywhere in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and foxes and infection is orally from larvae within mollusc or paratenic host. Pre-patent period is 3 weeks, patent period is up to 10 months.
Respiratory symptoms, coughing and possibly exercise intolerance.
Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces or bronchial lavage fluid by Baermann method or microscopic detection in bronchial lavage material.
Ixodidae or hard ticks are endemic throughout almost all of Europe, and there are more than 12 different species with varying biology and geographical distribution. Commonly found ticks are Ixodes ricinus, Rhipicephalus sanguineus and Dermacentor reticulatus. The main importance of ticks is their role as vectors of pathogenic agents which cause a range of tick-borne diseases (TBDs). Tick-borne diseases are detailed in ESCCAP Guideline 5: Control of Vector-borne diseases in Dogs and Cats.
Ixodes spp have peak activity in late spring and autumn
A three-host tick widely distributed in Europe except in northern Scandinavia.
Can be found all over the body but the main predilection sites are the non-hairy and thin-skinned areas such as the face, ears, axillae, interdigital, inguinal and perineal regions. Heavy infestations may lead to anaemia. The tick bite wound may become infected or a micro abscess may develop as a reaction to the mouthparts if the tick is forcibly removed leaving the mouthparts embedded in the skin. Attached engorged female ticks measuring up to 1 cm long are easily seen.
Usually by identifying the tick on the animal. It is more difficult to detect the small larval and nymphal stages than the males (rarely found in the case of Ixodes) and the engorged adult females. Females can increase their weight up to 120 times as they engorge with blood prior to egg laying; when fully engorged a female tick can measure around 1 cm long and appears like a small bean hence their being called the "castor bean tick". There are different names in different countries.
Has been shown to be mainly present in southern, south western and some north eastern areas as shown on the map
Europe, from the Atlantic coast to Kazakhstan. Vector in dogs for Babesia canis.
Ticks are white with variegated brown splashes. Adult females are 3.8–4.2 mm unfed and 10 mm when engorged.
Further information about pet travel can be found on Germany's Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture website.
Echinococcus granulosus and E. multilocularis absent in Ireland.
Focal geographic incidence most cases reported from the East coast region
Everywhere in endemic foci.
Final hosts are foxes and dogs. Infective larvae are ingested within molluscs or paratenic host. Pre-patent period 40–49 days, patent period up to 5 years.
After an asymptomatic period, respiratory signs such as cough, tachypnoea and dyspnoea are most obvious. Occasionally signs of coagulopathy (e.g. subcutaneous haematomas anaemia) and neurological signs are observed. Sudden death can occur even in the absence of respiratory signs.
Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces using the Baermann method, or microscopic detection of larvae in bronchial lavage material. A commercial serological test to detect circulating A. vasorum is now available.
Ixodidae or hard ticks are endemic throughout almost all of Europe, and there are more than 12 different species with varying biology and geographical distribution. Commonly found ticks are Ixodes ricinus, Rhipicephalus sanguineus and Dermacentor reticulatus. The main importance of ticks is their role as vectors of pathogenic agents which cause a range of tick-borne diseases (TBDs). Tick-borne diseases are detailed in ESCCAP Guideline 5: Control of Vector-borne diseases in Dogs and Cats.
Ixodes spp endemic. Ticks are most active during late spring and autumn. Avoid high-risk areas such as forests and animal carcases. Regular tick treatments required and check for ticks at times of peak activity.
A three-host tick widely distributed in Europe except in northern Scandinavia.
Can be found all over the body but the main predilection sites are the non-hairy and thin-skinned areas such as the face, ears, axillae, interdigital, inguinal and perineal regions. Heavy infestations may lead to anaemia. The tick bite wound may become infected or a micro abscess may develop as a reaction to the mouthparts if the tick is forcibly removed leaving the mouthparts embedded in the skin. Attached engorged female ticks measuring up to 1 cm long are easily seen.
Usually by identifying the tick on the animal. It is more difficult to detect the small larval and nymphal stages than the males (rarely found in the case of Ixodes) and the engorged adult females. Females can increase their weight up to 120 times as they engorge with blood prior to egg laying; when fully engorged a female tick can measure around 1 cm long and appears like a small bean hence their being called the "castor bean tick". There are different names in different countries.
Praziquantel treatment is compulsory 1–5 days before entering the UK. Further information on pet travel (including parasites) can be found on the on the Department of Agriculture, Agriculture and Rural Affairs website or on the ESCCAP UK & Ireland website.
Ticks
Endemic. Avoid forested areas and animal carcases. Prevalence of ticks is higher in southern counties. Regular tick treatments required and check for ticks at times of peak activity.
Echinococcus granulosusand E. multilocularis absent in Ireland.
Focal geographic incidence most cases reported from the East coast region
Everywhere in endemic foci.
Final hosts are foxes and dogs. Infective larvae are ingested within molluscs or paratenic host. Pre-patent period 40–49 days, patent period up to 5 years.
After an asymptomatic period, respiratory signs such as cough, tachypnoea and dyspnoea are most obvious. Occasionally signs of coagulopathy (e.g. subcutaneous haematomas anaemia) and neurological signs are observed. Sudden death can occur even in the absence of respiratory signs.
Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces using the Baermann method, or microscopic detection of larvae in bronchial lavage material. A commercial serological test to detect circulating A. vasorum is now available.
Praziquantel treatment is compulsory 1–5 days before entering Ireland. Further information about pet travel can be found on the Republic of Ireland's Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine's website or on the ESCCAP UK & Ireland website.
Further information on pet travel can be found on Belgium's Federal Public Services website.
Endemic in central and eastern Europe.
Final hosts are foxes, dogs, raccoon dogs and cats, after ingestion of larval stages in intermediate hosts (mainly rodents). Dogs should be prevented from having access to raw offal and carcases. Pre-patent period is 28 days and patent period can be for several months.
Asymptomatic.
Morphology and size of proglottids on faecal samples. Egg detection with flotation, sedimentation or combined techniques (not very sensitive and Taenia-type eggs cannot be differentiated morphologically). Coproantigen detection enables detection of pre-patent infections 10 days p.i. with a sensitivity of more than 90% if more than 50 worms are present, lower if less than 50 worms are present. PCR/sequencing allows species identification (from isolated eggs or proglottids).
Red foxes, raccoon dogs and rarely dogs and cats may excrete eggs of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces. The accidental oral consumption of E. multilocularis eggs causes alveolar echinococcosis in humans, which if untreated has potentially fatal consequences and this is therefore of major public health concern. Infection with eggs results in the formation of cysts also in animals such as pigs, horses and dogs.
Further information on pet travel can be found on Belgium's Federal Public Services website.
Poland is subject to all Central European parasites.
Ticks associated with babesiosis, anaplasmosis and boreliosis are present throughout Poland. Tick activity is greatest from spring to late autumn.
Mosquitoe species carrying Dirofilaria repens are recorded
Spain, South of France, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Bosnia, Czech Republic, Turkey and Hungary.
Final hosts are dogs, cats and other carnivores. L3 larvae are transmitted by mosquito vector (intermediate host). Cutaneous infection. Pre-patent period is 27–34 weeks, patent period – several years.
Mostly asymptomatic, very rarely modules or other cutaneous lesions.
Requires 2–4 ml EDTA blood. Detection of microfilariae from 6.2 months post infection. Detection improved by concentration of microfilariae with Difil Test or Knott’s Test. Microfilariae can be speciated using morphological, biochemical or molecular species identification by the use of specialised laboratories.
Yes, usually manifests itself in humans as a single subcutaneous nodule or a single worm in the conjuctiva.
Further information on pet travel can be found on the Polish Veterinary Inspection Service website.
Observed in foxes
Eastern Europe.
Dogs, cats, foxes, mink, wild carnivores and rarely humans.
Usually not evident.
Presence of eggs in faeces by the flotation method.
Yes, but rarely. One fatal incident was the result of consumption of inadequately cooked frogs’ legs. Intermediate hosts are frogs and freshwater snails.
Widespread in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and rarely red foxes. Intermediate hosts are domestic ruminants, primates and humans.
Asymptomatic in dogs. Infections in cattle, sheep and pigs do not show clinical signs.
Difficult as the adult tapeworm segments are sparsely shed and small. Identification is based on size (2.0–3.0 mm), ovoid in shape with a single genital pore.
Yes, one or both lungs can be affected in the human intermediate host. If in the liver, several hydatids may give rise to gross abdominal distention. If a cyst ruptures, there is risk of death from anaphylaxis.
Observed in red foxes.
Everywhere in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs, cats and foxes with ingestion of larval stages in meat or tissues of prey. Pre-patent period is 4–10 weeks with patent period of several years.
None reported.
Infective larvae are found in the abdominal cavity and liver.
Predominantly in southern Europe, sporadic in northern Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and foxes. Ingestion of L3 from environment, larvae in bitches' milk or paratenic hosts. Percutaneous infection of larvae. Pre-patent period is 2–3 weeks and patent period can be prolonged depending on immune status.
Diarrhoea, bloody diarrhoea, weight loss and anaemia. May be acute or chronic signs.
Egg detection by flotation from 3–5 g fresh or fixed faeces. Coproantigen assays detect infections from immature and adult worms, and are not linked to egg production. This enables the identification of infections during pre-patent periods and alleviates challenges of intermittent egg shedding associated with microscopic examinations.
Everywhere in Europe but most predominant in central and southern Europe.
Dogs by ingestion of embryonated eggs from the environment. Pre-patent period is 8 weeks and patent period is up to 18 months.
Asymptomatic but heavy infection associated with anaemia, diarrhoea and weight loss.
Egg detection by flotation from 3–5 g fresh or fixed faeces. Coproantigen assays detect infections from immature and adult worms, and are not linked to egg production. This enables identification of infections during pre-patent periods and alleviates challenges of intermittent egg shedding associated with microscopic examinations.
Everywhere in Europe but more predominant in southern Europe.
Final hosts are dogs, humans and cats with ingestion of embryonated eggs from soil or fur, larvae in milk or paratenic hosts. In utero from dam. Pre-patent period is variable from 9 days and patent period can be several months (3–15 months).
Bloody diarrhoea, dehydration and sometimes death.
Finding large numbers of the characteristic eggs in very young animals, usually in the first few weeks of life, are suggestive of strongyloidosis.
Yes, can cause several forms of disease: a) subcutaneous infection giving rise to an itching dermatitis, b) in the mucosa causing a chronic intestinal syndrome. Symptoms include sporadic diarrhoea, epigastric abdominal pain, heartburn, bloating and weight loss, c) mild transient form can induce mild coughing, and d) can occasionally induce neurological effects such as Gram-negative polymicrobial meningitis.
Endemic in Nitra, Trnava and Bratislava.
Portugal, Spain, South of France, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Bosnia, Czech Republic, Turkey, Hungary, Bulgaria and Romania.
Final hosts are dogs, cats and other carnivores. Rarely occurs in cats. L3 stage larvae are transmitted by mosquito vectors (intermediate host). Cutaneous infection. In dogs, pre-patent period is 4–6 months, patent period is several years. In cats, pre-patent period is approximately 8 months.
Low worm burden often asymptomatic. Infections with D.immitis may cause a severe and potentially fatal disease in dogs and cats. First clinical manifestation 5–7 months after infection: loss of condition, dyspnoea, cough. Chronic disease: cough, tachycardia, "Caval syndrome", tachypnoea. See GL5: Control of Vector-borne Diseases in Dogs and Cats.
Detection of microfilaria earliest 6 months after infection in dogs. For cats, detection of microfilaria from 8 months p.i. may be negative as levels can be very low. Detection improved by concentration of microfilaria with Difil Test or Knott’s Test. Microfilariae can be speciated using morphological, biochemical or molecular species identification in specialised laboratories only. Circulating antigens are detected from 5 months after infection with a sensitivity around 90% and approximately 100% if one female worm or more are present, respectively.
D. immitis is a zoonotic parasite, however human infection is rare.
Everywhere in Europe.
Final host is the cat, particularly strays, and intermediate stage larvae are found in molluscs. Cats are infected when they ingest an intermediate host. Pre-patent period is 7–9 weeks with patent period of several years.
Respiratory symptoms, coughing and possible exercise intolerance. There may be no signs (in a proportion of cats).
Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g of fresh faeces using the Baermann method or microscopic detection of larvae in bronchial lavage material.
Everywhere in Europe.
Final hosts are foxes, dogs and cats and infective larvae are ingested from the environment or from earthworms. Pre-patent period is 4 weeks and patent period Is 10–11 months.
Mild infections are usually asymptomatic. Heavy infection of C. hepatica can result in hepatic lesions and hepatic capillariosis is usually fatal. Capillaria philippinensis in the small intestine can cause fatal enteropathy.
Most infections are discovered at routine autopsy.
Yes, three species can infect man: C. philippinensis, C. hepatica and C. aerophila. Capillaria philippinensis infects the small intestine and is largely found in the Philippines with sporadic outbreaks in southern Europe. Capillaria hepatica infection is acquired through the ingestion of soil or via contaminated food or water. Human capillariosis from C. aerophila infection is very rare.
Everywhere in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and foxes and infection is orally from larvae within mollusc or paratenic host. Pre-patent period is 3 weeks, patent period is up to 10 months.
Respiratory symptoms, coughing and possibly exercise intolerance.
Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces or bronchial lavage fluid by Baermann method or microscopic detection in bronchial lavage material.
Endemic in the Nitra, Trnava, Bratislava and Košice regions.
Spain, South of France, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Bosnia, Czech Republic, Turkey and Hungary.
Final hosts are dogs, cats and other carnivores. L3 larvae are transmitted by mosquito vector (intermediate host). Cutaneous infection. Pre-patent period is 27–34 weeks, patent period – several years.
Mostly asymptomatic, very rarely modules or other cutaneous lesions.
Requires 2–4 ml EDTA blood. Detection of microfilariae from 6.2 months post infection. Detection improved by concentration of microfilariae with Difil Test or Knott’s Test. Microfilariae can be speciated using morphological, biochemical or molecular species identification by the use of specialised laboratories.
Yes, usually manifests itself in humans as a single subcutaneous nodule or a single worm in the conjuctiva.
In tropical and sub-tropical areas.
Dog, wild dog, fox, occasionally cats and wild cats.
Many infected dogs do not show clinical signs. In some dogs, infection can induce persistent vomiting with worms in the vomit. Sometimes difficultly in swallowing or interference with the action of the stomach.
Granulomatous lesions comprising the spirally coiled worms up to 8 cm in length. Eggs may be found in faeces or vomit otherwise diagnosis may be by endoscopy or radiography.
Found in dogs and red foxes; endemic foci in Košice and Bratislava regions.
Italy, France (Dordogne) and southern Switzerland.
Dogs and cats probably via a dipteran arthropod vector. Pre-patent period about 3 weeks and patent period of months to years.
Blepharospasm and epiphora.
By detection of adult or larval stages from samples of the tear film from the surface of the conjunctiva.
Lice are dorso-ventrally flattened wingless insects. They cause direct damage to the skin of affected animals and sucking lice can cause anaemia. The dog chewing louseTrichodectes canis, can also act as an intermediate host for the tapeworm Dipylidium caninum. Lice are highly host-specific with two main species on dogs Trichodectes canis and Linognathus setosus, and only one species Felicola subrostratus on cats. The entire life cycle is spent on the host. Adult chewing and sucking lice lay individual eggs, called nits, and cement these to hair shafts. The entire life cycle takes approximately 4–6 weeks.
All over Europe but rare, more common in stray cats. The only species of louse that commonly occurs on cats.
Infestations found on the skin, face, pinnae and back resulting in a dull, ruffled coat with scaling, crust and alopecia.
These lice are coloured beige or yellow with brown bands. Adults are 1–1.5 mm in length. Eggs are laid on the fur and hatch in 10–12 days with adult stage reached in 2–3 weeks. Diagnosis from lice or eggs (nits).
All over Europe rare except in Scandinavia where it is the predominant ectoparasite with chewing lice.
Skin lesions such as excoriation, military dermatitis or urticaria-like lesions and even necrotic skin lesions have been described. May cause anaemia in heavy infestation.
Primarily found in the head and neck areas and commonly under the collar. Long-eared dog breeds such as spaniel, basset and Afghan hounds are particularly susceptible.
Sporadic over most of Europe except Scandinavia where lice are the predominant ectoparasite.
A harmful ectoparasite of dogs particularly in puppies and old or debilitated dogs. Intense pruritus, scratching, biting, sleeplessness, nervousness and a matted coat are typical of T. canis infestation. Damage to the skin from scratching can result in inflammation, excoriation, alopecia and secondary bacterial involvement.
Commonly found on the head, neck and tail attached to the base of hairs and feeding on tissue debris. Often congregates around body orifices or wounds seeking moisture. Diagnosis from lice or eggs (nits).
In Europe only sand flies of the genus Phlebotomus are of veterinary importance and are well described in the Mediterranean region. Little is known about the complex biology of the phlebotomes but they are extremely important as vectors of protozoan parasites of the genus Leishmania infantum. L. infantum is transmitted by sand flies and leishmaniosis is a serious disease of dogs which are the main reservoir hosts. Leishmania infantum also affects humans and is a public health hazard for children and immunodeficient adults in particular. Refer to ESCCAP Guideline 5: Control of Vector-borne Diseases in Dogs and Cats.
An isolated case of Phlebotomus mascittii has been recorded in the Bratislava region.
Phlebotomes are widely distributed in the Mediterranean area preferring semi-arid and savannah regions. Distribution tends to be patchy.
The bites from these flies are painful, give rise to weals. Preferred areas where biting occurs are the ears, eyelids, nose, feet and tail.
Unlikely to be seen as they are very small. Crepescular, around evening and dawn females feed on host blood.
Ixodidae or hard ticks are endemic throughout almost all of Europe, and there are more than 12 different species with varying biology and geographical distribution. Commonly found ticks are Ixodes ricinus, Rhipicephalus sanguineus and Dermacentor reticulatus. The main importance of ticks is their role as vectors of pathogenic agents which cause a range of tick-borne diseases (TBDs). Tick-borne diseases are detailed in ESCCAP Guideline 5: Control of Vector-borne diseases in Dogs and Cats.
Endemic in southern and south-eastern parts of the country.
Europe, from the Atlantic coast to Kazakhstan. Vector in dogs for Babesia canis.
Ticks are white with variegated brown splashes. Adult females are 3.8–4.2 mm unfed and 10 mm when engorged.
Imported cases.
Primarily a tick of southern Europe and warmer climates. More prevalent during spring and summer but may feed all year round. In northern European countries R. sanguineus will not normally survive outdoors but may complete its life cycle inside kennels and houses.
On dogs the tick is often found in the ears and between the toes. Immature stages prefer the hair of the neck.
These ticks are yellow, reddish or blackish brown in colour. Size is highly variable and the engorged females can be 12 mm in length.
B. gibsoni and B. vulpes reported in imported dogs.
Also, autochthonous human cases of D. repens and D. immitis (x1).
Imported cases.
Imported cases.
Observed in foxes
Eastern Europe.
Dogs, cats, foxes, mink, wild carnivores and rarely humans.
Usually not evident.
Presence of eggs in faeces by the flotation method.
Yes, but rarely. One fatal incident was the result of consumption of inadequately cooked frogs’ legs. Intermediate hosts are frogs and freshwater snails.
Widespread in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and rarely red foxes. Intermediate hosts are domestic ruminants, primates and humans.
Asymptomatic in dogs. Infections in cattle, sheep and pigs do not show clinical signs.
Difficult as the adult tapeworm segments are sparsely shed and small. Identification is based on size (2.0–3.0 mm), ovoid in shape with a single genital pore.
Yes, one or both lungs can be affected in the human intermediate host. If in the liver, several hydatids may give rise to gross abdominal distention. If a cyst ruptures, there is risk of death from anaphylaxis.
Observed in red foxes.
Everywhere in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs, cats and foxes with ingestion of larval stages in meat or tissues of prey. Pre-patent period is 4–10 weeks with patent period of several years.
None reported.
Infective larvae are found in the abdominal cavity and liver.
Predominantly in southern Europe, sporadic in northern Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and foxes. Ingestion of L3 from environment, larvae in bitches' milk or paratenic hosts. Percutaneous infection of larvae. Pre-patent period is 2–3 weeks and patent period can be prolonged depending on immune status.
Diarrhoea, bloody diarrhoea, weight loss and anaemia. May be acute or chronic signs.
Egg detection by flotation from 3–5 g fresh or fixed faeces. Coproantigen assays detect infections from immature and adult worms, and are not linked to egg production. This enables the identification of infections during pre-patent periods and alleviates challenges of intermittent egg shedding associated with microscopic examinations.
Predominantly central and northern Europe.
Dogs, foxes and cats. Pre-patent period is about 3–4 weeks and patent period can be prolonged depending on immune status. Infection is by ingestion of embryonated eggs from soil or larvae from paratenic hosts.
Diarrhoea, weight loss and anaemia, may be acute or chronic signs.
Egg detection by flotation from 3–5 g fresh or fixed faeces. Coproantigen assays detect infections from immature and adult worms, and are not linked to egg production. This enables identification of infections during pre-patent periods and alleviates challenges of intermittent egg shedding associated with microscopic examinations.
Everywhere in Europe but most predominant in central and southern Europe.
Dogs by ingestion of embryonated eggs from the environment. Pre-patent period is 8 weeks and patent period is up to 18 months.
Asymptomatic but heavy infection associated with anaemia, diarrhoea and weight loss.
Egg detection by flotation from 3–5 g fresh or fixed faeces. Coproantigen assays detect infections from immature and adult worms, and are not linked to egg production. This enables identification of infections during pre-patent periods and alleviates challenges of intermittent egg shedding associated with microscopic examinations.
Everywhere in Europe but more predominant in southern Europe.
Final hosts are dogs, humans and cats with ingestion of embryonated eggs from soil or fur, larvae in milk or paratenic hosts. In utero from dam. Pre-patent period is variable from 9 days and patent period can be several months (3–15 months).
Bloody diarrhoea, dehydration and sometimes death.
Finding large numbers of the characteristic eggs in very young animals, usually in the first few weeks of life, are suggestive of strongyloidosis.
Yes, can cause several forms of disease: a) subcutaneous infection giving rise to an itching dermatitis, b) in the mucosa causing a chronic intestinal syndrome. Symptoms include sporadic diarrhoea, epigastric abdominal pain, heartburn, bloating and weight loss, c) mild transient form can induce mild coughing, and d) can occasionally induce neurological effects such as Gram-negative polymicrobial meningitis.
Everywhere in Europe.
Final hosts are foxes, dogs and cats and infective larvae are ingested from the environment or from earthworms. Pre-patent period is 4 weeks and patent period Is 10–11 months.
Mild infections are usually asymptomatic. Heavy infection of C. hepatica can result in hepatic lesions and hepatic capillariosis is usually fatal. Capillaria philippinensis in the small intestine can cause fatal enteropathy.
Most infections are discovered at routine autopsy.
Yes, three species can infect man: C. philippinensis, C. hepatica and C. aerophila. Capillaria philippinensis infects the small intestine and is largely found in the Philippines with sporadic outbreaks in southern Europe. Capillaria hepatica infection is acquired through the ingestion of soil or via contaminated food or water. Human capillariosis from C. aerophila infection is very rare.
Everywhere in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and foxes and infection is orally from larvae within mollusc or paratenic host. Pre-patent period is 3 weeks, patent period is up to 10 months.
Respiratory symptoms, coughing and possibly exercise intolerance.
Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces or bronchial lavage fluid by Baermann method or microscopic detection in bronchial lavage material.
Everywhere in Europe.
Final host is the cat, particularly strays, and intermediate stage larvae are found in molluscs. Cats are infected when they ingest an intermediate host. Pre-patent period is 7–9 weeks with patent period of several years.
Respiratory symptoms, coughing and possible exercise intolerance. There may be no signs (in a proportion of cats).
Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g of fresh faeces using the Baermann method or microscopic detection of larvae in bronchial lavage material.
In tropical and sub-tropical areas.
Dog, wild dog, fox, occasionally cats and wild cats.
Many infected dogs do not show clinical signs. In some dogs, infection can induce persistent vomiting with worms in the vomit. Sometimes difficultly in swallowing or interference with the action of the stomach.
Granulomatous lesions comprising the spirally coiled worms up to 8 cm in length. Eggs may be found in faeces or vomit otherwise diagnosis may be by endoscopy or radiography.
Lice are dorso-ventrally flattened wingless insects. They cause direct damage to the skin of affected animals and sucking lice can cause anaemia. The dog chewing louseTrichodectes canis, can also act as an intermediate host for the tapeworm Dipylidium caninum. Lice are highly host-specific with two main species on dogs Trichodectes canis and Linognathus setosus, and only one species Felicola subrostratus on cats. The entire life cycle is spent on the host. Adult chewing and sucking lice lay individual eggs, called nits, and cement these to hair shafts. The entire life cycle takes approximately 4–6 weeks.
All over Europe but rare, more common in stray cats. The only species of louse that commonly occurs on cats.
Infestations found on the skin, face, pinnae and back resulting in a dull, ruffled coat with scaling, crust and alopecia.
These lice are coloured beige or yellow with brown bands. Adults are 1–1.5 mm in length. Eggs are laid on the fur and hatch in 10–12 days with adult stage reached in 2–3 weeks. Diagnosis from lice or eggs (nits).
All over Europe rare except in Scandinavia where it is the predominant ectoparasite with chewing lice.
Skin lesions such as excoriation, military dermatitis or urticaria-like lesions and even necrotic skin lesions have been described. May cause anaemia in heavy infestation.
Primarily found in the head and neck areas and commonly under the collar. Long-eared dog breeds such as spaniel, basset and Afghan hounds are particularly susceptible.
Sporadic over most of Europe except Scandinavia where lice are the predominant ectoparasite.
A harmful ectoparasite of dogs particularly in puppies and old or debilitated dogs. Intense pruritus, scratching, biting, sleeplessness, nervousness and a matted coat are typical of T. canis infestation. Damage to the skin from scratching can result in inflammation, excoriation, alopecia and secondary bacterial involvement.
Commonly found on the head, neck and tail attached to the base of hairs and feeding on tissue debris. Often congregates around body orifices or wounds seeking moisture. Diagnosis from lice or eggs (nits).
Ixodidae or hard ticks are endemic throughout almost all of Europe, and there are more than 12 different species with varying biology and geographical distribution. Commonly found ticks are Ixodes ricinus, Rhipicephalus sanguineus and Dermacentor reticulatus. The main importance of ticks is their role as vectors of pathogenic agents which cause a range of tick-borne diseases (TBDs). Tick-borne diseases are detailed in ESCCAP Guideline 5: Control of Vector-borne diseases in Dogs and Cats.
Imported cases.
Primarily a tick of southern Europe and warmer climates. More prevalent during spring and summer but may feed all year round. In northern European countries R. sanguineus will not normally survive outdoors but may complete its life cycle inside kennels and houses.
On dogs the tick is often found in the ears and between the toes. Immature stages prefer the hair of the neck.
These ticks are yellow, reddish or blackish brown in colour. Size is highly variable and the engorged females can be 12 mm in length.
B. gibsoni and B. vulpes reported in imported dogs.
Also, autochthonous human cases of D. repens and D. immitis (x1).
Imported cases.
Imported cases.
Observed in foxes
Eastern Europe.
Dogs, cats, foxes, mink, wild carnivores and rarely humans.
Usually not evident.
Presence of eggs in faeces by the flotation method.
Yes, but rarely. One fatal incident was the result of consumption of inadequately cooked frogs’ legs. Intermediate hosts are frogs and freshwater snails.
Widespread in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and rarely red foxes. Intermediate hosts are domestic ruminants, primates and humans.
Asymptomatic in dogs. Infections in cattle, sheep and pigs do not show clinical signs.
Difficult as the adult tapeworm segments are sparsely shed and small. Identification is based on size (2.0–3.0 mm), ovoid in shape with a single genital pore.
Yes, one or both lungs can be affected in the human intermediate host. If in the liver, several hydatids may give rise to gross abdominal distention. If a cyst ruptures, there is risk of death from anaphylaxis.
Observed in red foxes.
Everywhere in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs, cats and foxes with ingestion of larval stages in meat or tissues of prey. Pre-patent period is 4–10 weeks with patent period of several years.
None reported.
Infective larvae are found in the abdominal cavity and liver.
Predominantly in southern Europe, sporadic in northern Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and foxes. Ingestion of L3 from environment, larvae in bitches' milk or paratenic hosts. Percutaneous infection of larvae. Pre-patent period is 2–3 weeks and patent period can be prolonged depending on immune status.
Diarrhoea, bloody diarrhoea, weight loss and anaemia. May be acute or chronic signs.
Egg detection by flotation from 3–5 g fresh or fixed faeces. Coproantigen assays detect infections from immature and adult worms, and are not linked to egg production. This enables the identification of infections during pre-patent periods and alleviates challenges of intermittent egg shedding associated with microscopic examinations.
Predominantly central and northern Europe.
Dogs, foxes and cats. Pre-patent period is about 3–4 weeks and patent period can be prolonged depending on immune status. Infection is by ingestion of embryonated eggs from soil or larvae from paratenic hosts.
Diarrhoea, weight loss and anaemia, may be acute or chronic signs.
Egg detection by flotation from 3–5 g fresh or fixed faeces. Coproantigen assays detect infections from immature and adult worms, and are not linked to egg production. This enables identification of infections during pre-patent periods and alleviates challenges of intermittent egg shedding associated with microscopic examinations.
Everywhere in Europe but most predominant in central and southern Europe.
Dogs by ingestion of embryonated eggs from the environment. Pre-patent period is 8 weeks and patent period is up to 18 months.
Asymptomatic but heavy infection associated with anaemia, diarrhoea and weight loss.
Egg detection by flotation from 3–5 g fresh or fixed faeces. Coproantigen assays detect infections from immature and adult worms, and are not linked to egg production. This enables identification of infections during pre-patent periods and alleviates challenges of intermittent egg shedding associated with microscopic examinations.
Everywhere in Europe but more predominant in southern Europe.
Final hosts are dogs, humans and cats with ingestion of embryonated eggs from soil or fur, larvae in milk or paratenic hosts. In utero from dam. Pre-patent period is variable from 9 days and patent period can be several months (3–15 months).
Bloody diarrhoea, dehydration and sometimes death.
Finding large numbers of the characteristic eggs in very young animals, usually in the first few weeks of life, are suggestive of strongyloidosis.
Yes, can cause several forms of disease: a) subcutaneous infection giving rise to an itching dermatitis, b) in the mucosa causing a chronic intestinal syndrome. Symptoms include sporadic diarrhoea, epigastric abdominal pain, heartburn, bloating and weight loss, c) mild transient form can induce mild coughing, and d) can occasionally induce neurological effects such as Gram-negative polymicrobial meningitis.
Endemic foci identified in the Košice region.
Everywhere in endemic foci.
Final hosts are foxes and dogs. Infective larvae are ingested within molluscs or paratenic host. Pre-patent period 40–49 days, patent period up to 5 years.
After an asymptomatic period, respiratory signs such as cough, tachypnoea and dyspnoea are most obvious. Occasionally signs of coagulopathy (e.g. subcutaneous haematomas anaemia) and neurological signs are observed. Sudden death can occur even in the absence of respiratory signs.
Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces using the Baermann method, or microscopic detection of larvae in bronchial lavage material. A commercial serological test to detect circulating A. vasorum is now available.
Everywhere in Europe.
Final hosts are foxes, dogs and cats and infective larvae are ingested from the environment or from earthworms. Pre-patent period is 4 weeks and patent period Is 10–11 months.
Mild infections are usually asymptomatic. Heavy infection of C. hepatica can result in hepatic lesions and hepatic capillariosis is usually fatal. Capillaria philippinensis in the small intestine can cause fatal enteropathy.
Most infections are discovered at routine autopsy.
Yes, three species can infect man: C. philippinensis, C. hepatica and C. aerophila. Capillaria philippinensis infects the small intestine and is largely found in the Philippines with sporadic outbreaks in southern Europe. Capillaria hepatica infection is acquired through the ingestion of soil or via contaminated food or water. Human capillariosis from C. aerophila infection is very rare.
Everywhere in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and foxes and infection is orally from larvae within mollusc or paratenic host. Pre-patent period is 3 weeks, patent period is up to 10 months.
Respiratory symptoms, coughing and possibly exercise intolerance.
Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces or bronchial lavage fluid by Baermann method or microscopic detection in bronchial lavage material.
Everywhere in Europe.
Final host is the cat, particularly strays, and intermediate stage larvae are found in molluscs. Cats are infected when they ingest an intermediate host. Pre-patent period is 7–9 weeks with patent period of several years.
Respiratory symptoms, coughing and possible exercise intolerance. There may be no signs (in a proportion of cats).
Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g of fresh faeces using the Baermann method or microscopic detection of larvae in bronchial lavage material.
Endemic in the Nitra, Trnava, Bratislava and Košice regions.
Spain, South of France, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Bosnia, Czech Republic, Turkey and Hungary.
Final hosts are dogs, cats and other carnivores. L3 larvae are transmitted by mosquito vector (intermediate host). Cutaneous infection. Pre-patent period is 27–34 weeks, patent period – several years.
Mostly asymptomatic, very rarely modules or other cutaneous lesions.
Requires 2–4 ml EDTA blood. Detection of microfilariae from 6.2 months post infection. Detection improved by concentration of microfilariae with Difil Test or Knott’s Test. Microfilariae can be speciated using morphological, biochemical or molecular species identification by the use of specialised laboratories.
Yes, usually manifests itself in humans as a single subcutaneous nodule or a single worm in the conjuctiva.
In tropical and sub-tropical areas.
Dog, wild dog, fox, occasionally cats and wild cats.
Many infected dogs do not show clinical signs. In some dogs, infection can induce persistent vomiting with worms in the vomit. Sometimes difficultly in swallowing or interference with the action of the stomach.
Granulomatous lesions comprising the spirally coiled worms up to 8 cm in length. Eggs may be found in faeces or vomit otherwise diagnosis may be by endoscopy or radiography.
Found in dogs and red foxes; endemic foci in Košice and Bratislava regions.
Italy, France (Dordogne) and southern Switzerland.
Dogs and cats probably via a dipteran arthropod vector. Pre-patent period about 3 weeks and patent period of months to years.
Blepharospasm and epiphora.
By detection of adult or larval stages from samples of the tear film from the surface of the conjunctiva.
Lice are dorso-ventrally flattened wingless insects. They cause direct damage to the skin of affected animals and sucking lice can cause anaemia. The dog chewing louseTrichodectes canis, can also act as an intermediate host for the tapeworm Dipylidium caninum. Lice are highly host-specific with two main species on dogs Trichodectes canis and Linognathus setosus, and only one species Felicola subrostratus on cats. The entire life cycle is spent on the host. Adult chewing and sucking lice lay individual eggs, called nits, and cement these to hair shafts. The entire life cycle takes approximately 4–6 weeks.
All over Europe but rare, more common in stray cats. The only species of louse that commonly occurs on cats.
Infestations found on the skin, face, pinnae and back resulting in a dull, ruffled coat with scaling, crust and alopecia.
These lice are coloured beige or yellow with brown bands. Adults are 1–1.5 mm in length. Eggs are laid on the fur and hatch in 10–12 days with adult stage reached in 2–3 weeks. Diagnosis from lice or eggs (nits).
All over Europe rare except in Scandinavia where it is the predominant ectoparasite with chewing lice.
Skin lesions such as excoriation, military dermatitis or urticaria-like lesions and even necrotic skin lesions have been described. May cause anaemia in heavy infestation.
Primarily found in the head and neck areas and commonly under the collar. Long-eared dog breeds such as spaniel, basset and Afghan hounds are particularly susceptible.
Sporadic over most of Europe except Scandinavia where lice are the predominant ectoparasite.
A harmful ectoparasite of dogs particularly in puppies and old or debilitated dogs. Intense pruritus, scratching, biting, sleeplessness, nervousness and a matted coat are typical of T. canis infestation. Damage to the skin from scratching can result in inflammation, excoriation, alopecia and secondary bacterial involvement.
Commonly found on the head, neck and tail attached to the base of hairs and feeding on tissue debris. Often congregates around body orifices or wounds seeking moisture. Diagnosis from lice or eggs (nits).
Ixodidae or hard ticks are endemic throughout almost all of Europe, and there are more than 12 different species with varying biology and geographical distribution. Commonly found ticks are Ixodes ricinus, Rhipicephalus sanguineus and Dermacentor reticulatus. The main importance of ticks is their role as vectors of pathogenic agents which cause a range of tick-borne diseases (TBDs). Tick-borne diseases are detailed in ESCCAP Guideline 5: Control of Vector-borne diseases in Dogs and Cats.
Endemic in southern and south-eastern parts of the country.
Europe, from the Atlantic coast to Kazakhstan. Vector in dogs for Babesia canis.
Ticks are white with variegated brown splashes. Adult females are 3.8–4.2 mm unfed and 10 mm when engorged.
Imported cases.
Primarily a tick of southern Europe and warmer climates. More prevalent during spring and summer but may feed all year round. In northern European countries R. sanguineus will not normally survive outdoors but may complete its life cycle inside kennels and houses.
On dogs the tick is often found in the ears and between the toes. Immature stages prefer the hair of the neck.
These ticks are yellow, reddish or blackish brown in colour. Size is highly variable and the engorged females can be 12 mm in length.
B. gibsoni and B. vulpes reported in imported dogs.
Also, autochthonous human cases of D. repens and D. immitis (x1).
Confirmed in red foxes and dogs in the Košice and Prešov regions.
Imported cases.
Imported cases.
Observed in foxes
Eastern Europe.
Dogs, cats, foxes, mink, wild carnivores and rarely humans.
Usually not evident.
Presence of eggs in faeces by the flotation method.
Yes, but rarely. One fatal incident was the result of consumption of inadequately cooked frogs’ legs. Intermediate hosts are frogs and freshwater snails.
Widespread in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and rarely red foxes. Intermediate hosts are domestic ruminants, primates and humans.
Asymptomatic in dogs. Infections in cattle, sheep and pigs do not show clinical signs.
Difficult as the adult tapeworm segments are sparsely shed and small. Identification is based on size (2.0–3.0 mm), ovoid in shape with a single genital pore.
Yes, one or both lungs can be affected in the human intermediate host. If in the liver, several hydatids may give rise to gross abdominal distention. If a cyst ruptures, there is risk of death from anaphylaxis.
Observed in red foxes.
Everywhere in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs, cats and foxes with ingestion of larval stages in meat or tissues of prey. Pre-patent period is 4–10 weeks with patent period of several years.
None reported.
Infective larvae are found in the abdominal cavity and liver.
Predominantly in southern Europe, sporadic in northern Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and foxes. Ingestion of L3 from environment, larvae in bitches' milk or paratenic hosts. Percutaneous infection of larvae. Pre-patent period is 2–3 weeks and patent period can be prolonged depending on immune status.
Diarrhoea, bloody diarrhoea, weight loss and anaemia. May be acute or chronic signs.
Egg detection by flotation from 3–5 g fresh or fixed faeces. Coproantigen assays detect infections from immature and adult worms, and are not linked to egg production. This enables the identification of infections during pre-patent periods and alleviates challenges of intermittent egg shedding associated with microscopic examinations.
Predominantly central and northern Europe.
Dogs, foxes and cats. Pre-patent period is about 3–4 weeks and patent period can be prolonged depending on immune status. Infection is by ingestion of embryonated eggs from soil or larvae from paratenic hosts.
Diarrhoea, weight loss and anaemia, may be acute or chronic signs.
Egg detection by flotation from 3–5 g fresh or fixed faeces. Coproantigen assays detect infections from immature and adult worms, and are not linked to egg production. This enables identification of infections during pre-patent periods and alleviates challenges of intermittent egg shedding associated with microscopic examinations.
Everywhere in Europe but most predominant in central and southern Europe.
Dogs by ingestion of embryonated eggs from the environment. Pre-patent period is 8 weeks and patent period is up to 18 months.
Asymptomatic but heavy infection associated with anaemia, diarrhoea and weight loss.
Egg detection by flotation from 3–5 g fresh or fixed faeces. Coproantigen assays detect infections from immature and adult worms, and are not linked to egg production. This enables identification of infections during pre-patent periods and alleviates challenges of intermittent egg shedding associated with microscopic examinations.
Everywhere in Europe but more predominant in southern Europe.
Final hosts are dogs, humans and cats with ingestion of embryonated eggs from soil or fur, larvae in milk or paratenic hosts. In utero from dam. Pre-patent period is variable from 9 days and patent period can be several months (3–15 months).
Bloody diarrhoea, dehydration and sometimes death.
Finding large numbers of the characteristic eggs in very young animals, usually in the first few weeks of life, are suggestive of strongyloidosis.
Yes, can cause several forms of disease: a) subcutaneous infection giving rise to an itching dermatitis, b) in the mucosa causing a chronic intestinal syndrome. Symptoms include sporadic diarrhoea, epigastric abdominal pain, heartburn, bloating and weight loss, c) mild transient form can induce mild coughing, and d) can occasionally induce neurological effects such as Gram-negative polymicrobial meningitis.
Endemic in Nitra, Trnava and Bratislava.
Portugal, Spain, South of France, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Bosnia, Czech Republic, Turkey, Hungary, Bulgaria and Romania.
Final hosts are dogs, cats and other carnivores. Rarely occurs in cats. L3 stage larvae are transmitted by mosquito vectors (intermediate host). Cutaneous infection. In dogs, pre-patent period is 4–6 months, patent period is several years. In cats, pre-patent period is approximately 8 months.
Low worm burden often asymptomatic. Infections with D.immitis may cause a severe and potentially fatal disease in dogs and cats. First clinical manifestation 5–7 months after infection: loss of condition, dyspnoea, cough. Chronic disease: cough, tachycardia, "Caval syndrome", tachypnoea. See GL5: Control of Vector-borne Diseases in Dogs and Cats.
Detection of microfilaria earliest 6 months after infection in dogs. For cats, detection of microfilaria from 8 months p.i. may be negative as levels can be very low. Detection improved by concentration of microfilaria with Difil Test or Knott’s Test. Microfilariae can be speciated using morphological, biochemical or molecular species identification in specialised laboratories only. Circulating antigens are detected from 5 months after infection with a sensitivity around 90% and approximately 100% if one female worm or more are present, respectively.
D. immitis is a zoonotic parasite, however human infection is rare.
Everywhere in Europe.
Final hosts are foxes, dogs and cats and infective larvae are ingested from the environment or from earthworms. Pre-patent period is 4 weeks and patent period Is 10–11 months.
Mild infections are usually asymptomatic. Heavy infection of C. hepatica can result in hepatic lesions and hepatic capillariosis is usually fatal. Capillaria philippinensis in the small intestine can cause fatal enteropathy.
Most infections are discovered at routine autopsy.
Yes, three species can infect man: C. philippinensis, C. hepatica and C. aerophila. Capillaria philippinensis infects the small intestine and is largely found in the Philippines with sporadic outbreaks in southern Europe. Capillaria hepatica infection is acquired through the ingestion of soil or via contaminated food or water. Human capillariosis from C. aerophila infection is very rare.
Everywhere in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and foxes and infection is orally from larvae within mollusc or paratenic host. Pre-patent period is 3 weeks, patent period is up to 10 months.
Respiratory symptoms, coughing and possibly exercise intolerance.
Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces or bronchial lavage fluid by Baermann method or microscopic detection in bronchial lavage material.
Everywhere in Europe.
Final host is the cat, particularly strays, and intermediate stage larvae are found in molluscs. Cats are infected when they ingest an intermediate host. Pre-patent period is 7–9 weeks with patent period of several years.
Respiratory symptoms, coughing and possible exercise intolerance. There may be no signs (in a proportion of cats).
Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g of fresh faeces using the Baermann method or microscopic detection of larvae in bronchial lavage material.
Endemic in the Nitra, Trnava, Bratislava and Košice regions.
Spain, South of France, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Bosnia, Czech Republic, Turkey and Hungary.
Final hosts are dogs, cats and other carnivores. L3 larvae are transmitted by mosquito vector (intermediate host). Cutaneous infection. Pre-patent period is 27–34 weeks, patent period – several years.
Mostly asymptomatic, very rarely modules or other cutaneous lesions.
Requires 2–4 ml EDTA blood. Detection of microfilariae from 6.2 months post infection. Detection improved by concentration of microfilariae with Difil Test or Knott’s Test. Microfilariae can be speciated using morphological, biochemical or molecular species identification by the use of specialised laboratories.
Yes, usually manifests itself in humans as a single subcutaneous nodule or a single worm in the conjuctiva.
In tropical and sub-tropical areas.
Dog, wild dog, fox, occasionally cats and wild cats.
Many infected dogs do not show clinical signs. In some dogs, infection can induce persistent vomiting with worms in the vomit. Sometimes difficultly in swallowing or interference with the action of the stomach.
Granulomatous lesions comprising the spirally coiled worms up to 8 cm in length. Eggs may be found in faeces or vomit otherwise diagnosis may be by endoscopy or radiography.
Lice are dorso-ventrally flattened wingless insects. They cause direct damage to the skin of affected animals and sucking lice can cause anaemia. The dog chewing louseTrichodectes canis, can also act as an intermediate host for the tapeworm Dipylidium caninum. Lice are highly host-specific with two main species on dogs Trichodectes canis and Linognathus setosus, and only one species Felicola subrostratus on cats. The entire life cycle is spent on the host. Adult chewing and sucking lice lay individual eggs, called nits, and cement these to hair shafts. The entire life cycle takes approximately 4–6 weeks.
All over Europe but rare, more common in stray cats. The only species of louse that commonly occurs on cats.
Infestations found on the skin, face, pinnae and back resulting in a dull, ruffled coat with scaling, crust and alopecia.
These lice are coloured beige or yellow with brown bands. Adults are 1–1.5 mm in length. Eggs are laid on the fur and hatch in 10–12 days with adult stage reached in 2–3 weeks. Diagnosis from lice or eggs (nits).
All over Europe rare except in Scandinavia where it is the predominant ectoparasite with chewing lice.
Skin lesions such as excoriation, military dermatitis or urticaria-like lesions and even necrotic skin lesions have been described. May cause anaemia in heavy infestation.
Primarily found in the head and neck areas and commonly under the collar. Long-eared dog breeds such as spaniel, basset and Afghan hounds are particularly susceptible.
Sporadic over most of Europe except Scandinavia where lice are the predominant ectoparasite.
A harmful ectoparasite of dogs particularly in puppies and old or debilitated dogs. Intense pruritus, scratching, biting, sleeplessness, nervousness and a matted coat are typical of T. canis infestation. Damage to the skin from scratching can result in inflammation, excoriation, alopecia and secondary bacterial involvement.
Commonly found on the head, neck and tail attached to the base of hairs and feeding on tissue debris. Often congregates around body orifices or wounds seeking moisture. Diagnosis from lice or eggs (nits).
Ixodidae or hard ticks are endemic throughout almost all of Europe, and there are more than 12 different species with varying biology and geographical distribution. Commonly found ticks are Ixodes ricinus, Rhipicephalus sanguineus and Dermacentor reticulatus. The main importance of ticks is their role as vectors of pathogenic agents which cause a range of tick-borne diseases (TBDs). Tick-borne diseases are detailed in ESCCAP Guideline 5: Control of Vector-borne diseases in Dogs and Cats.
Endemic in southern and south-eastern parts of the country.
Europe, from the Atlantic coast to Kazakhstan. Vector in dogs for Babesia canis.
Ticks are white with variegated brown splashes. Adult females are 3.8–4.2 mm unfed and 10 mm when engorged.
Imported cases.
Primarily a tick of southern Europe and warmer climates. More prevalent during spring and summer but may feed all year round. In northern European countries R. sanguineus will not normally survive outdoors but may complete its life cycle inside kennels and houses.
On dogs the tick is often found in the ears and between the toes. Immature stages prefer the hair of the neck.
These ticks are yellow, reddish or blackish brown in colour. Size is highly variable and the engorged females can be 12 mm in length.
B. gibsoni and B. vulpes reported in imported dogs.
Also, autochthonous human cases of D. repens and D. immitis (x1).
Imported cases.
Imported cases.
Observed in foxes
Eastern Europe.
Dogs, cats, foxes, mink, wild carnivores and rarely humans.
Usually not evident.
Presence of eggs in faeces by the flotation method.
Yes, but rarely. One fatal incident was the result of consumption of inadequately cooked frogs’ legs. Intermediate hosts are frogs and freshwater snails.
Widespread in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and rarely red foxes. Intermediate hosts are domestic ruminants, primates and humans.
Asymptomatic in dogs. Infections in cattle, sheep and pigs do not show clinical signs.
Difficult as the adult tapeworm segments are sparsely shed and small. Identification is based on size (2.0–3.0 mm), ovoid in shape with a single genital pore.
Yes, one or both lungs can be affected in the human intermediate host. If in the liver, several hydatids may give rise to gross abdominal distention. If a cyst ruptures, there is risk of death from anaphylaxis.
Endemic in the Žilina and Prešov regions.
Endemic in central and eastern Europe.
Final hosts are foxes, dogs, raccoon dogs and cats, after ingestion of larval stages in intermediate hosts (mainly rodents). Dogs should be prevented from having access to raw offal and carcases. Pre-patent period is 28 days and patent period can be for several months.
Asymptomatic.
Morphology and size of proglottids on faecal samples. Egg detection with flotation, sedimentation or combined techniques (not very sensitive and Taenia-type eggs cannot be differentiated morphologically). Coproantigen detection enables detection of pre-patent infections 10 days p.i. with a sensitivity of more than 90% if more than 50 worms are present, lower if less than 50 worms are present. PCR/sequencing allows species identification (from isolated eggs or proglottids).
Red foxes, raccoon dogs and rarely dogs and cats may excrete eggs of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces. The accidental oral consumption of E. multilocularis eggs causes alveolar echinococcosis in humans, which if untreated has potentially fatal consequences and this is therefore of major public health concern. Infection with eggs results in the formation of cysts also in animals such as pigs, horses and dogs.
Observed in red foxes.
Everywhere in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs, cats and foxes with ingestion of larval stages in meat or tissues of prey. Pre-patent period is 4–10 weeks with patent period of several years.
None reported.
Infective larvae are found in the abdominal cavity and liver.
Predominantly in southern Europe, sporadic in northern Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and foxes. Ingestion of L3 from environment, larvae in bitches' milk or paratenic hosts. Percutaneous infection of larvae. Pre-patent period is 2–3 weeks and patent period can be prolonged depending on immune status.
Diarrhoea, bloody diarrhoea, weight loss and anaemia. May be acute or chronic signs.
Egg detection by flotation from 3–5 g fresh or fixed faeces. Coproantigen assays detect infections from immature and adult worms, and are not linked to egg production. This enables the identification of infections during pre-patent periods and alleviates challenges of intermittent egg shedding associated with microscopic examinations.
Predominantly central and northern Europe.
Dogs, foxes and cats. Pre-patent period is about 3–4 weeks and patent period can be prolonged depending on immune status. Infection is by ingestion of embryonated eggs from soil or larvae from paratenic hosts.
Diarrhoea, weight loss and anaemia, may be acute or chronic signs.
Egg detection by flotation from 3–5 g fresh or fixed faeces. Coproantigen assays detect infections from immature and adult worms, and are not linked to egg production. This enables identification of infections during pre-patent periods and alleviates challenges of intermittent egg shedding associated with microscopic examinations.
Everywhere in Europe but most predominant in central and southern Europe.
Dogs by ingestion of embryonated eggs from the environment. Pre-patent period is 8 weeks and patent period is up to 18 months.
Asymptomatic but heavy infection associated with anaemia, diarrhoea and weight loss.
Egg detection by flotation from 3–5 g fresh or fixed faeces. Coproantigen assays detect infections from immature and adult worms, and are not linked to egg production. This enables identification of infections during pre-patent periods and alleviates challenges of intermittent egg shedding associated with microscopic examinations.
Everywhere in Europe but more predominant in southern Europe.
Final hosts are dogs, humans and cats with ingestion of embryonated eggs from soil or fur, larvae in milk or paratenic hosts. In utero from dam. Pre-patent period is variable from 9 days and patent period can be several months (3–15 months).
Bloody diarrhoea, dehydration and sometimes death.
Finding large numbers of the characteristic eggs in very young animals, usually in the first few weeks of life, are suggestive of strongyloidosis.
Yes, can cause several forms of disease: a) subcutaneous infection giving rise to an itching dermatitis, b) in the mucosa causing a chronic intestinal syndrome. Symptoms include sporadic diarrhoea, epigastric abdominal pain, heartburn, bloating and weight loss, c) mild transient form can induce mild coughing, and d) can occasionally induce neurological effects such as Gram-negative polymicrobial meningitis.
Endemic foci identified in the Prešov region.
Everywhere in endemic foci.
Final hosts are foxes and dogs. Infective larvae are ingested within molluscs or paratenic host. Pre-patent period 40–49 days, patent period up to 5 years.
After an asymptomatic period, respiratory signs such as cough, tachypnoea and dyspnoea are most obvious. Occasionally signs of coagulopathy (e.g. subcutaneous haematomas anaemia) and neurological signs are observed. Sudden death can occur even in the absence of respiratory signs.
Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces using the Baermann method, or microscopic detection of larvae in bronchial lavage material. A commercial serological test to detect circulating A. vasorum is now available.
Everywhere in Europe.
Final hosts are foxes, dogs and cats and infective larvae are ingested from the environment or from earthworms. Pre-patent period is 4 weeks and patent period Is 10–11 months.
Mild infections are usually asymptomatic. Heavy infection of C. hepatica can result in hepatic lesions and hepatic capillariosis is usually fatal. Capillaria philippinensis in the small intestine can cause fatal enteropathy.
Most infections are discovered at routine autopsy.
Yes, three species can infect man: C. philippinensis, C. hepatica and C. aerophila. Capillaria philippinensis infects the small intestine and is largely found in the Philippines with sporadic outbreaks in southern Europe. Capillaria hepatica infection is acquired through the ingestion of soil or via contaminated food or water. Human capillariosis from C. aerophila infection is very rare.
Everywhere in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and foxes and infection is orally from larvae within mollusc or paratenic host. Pre-patent period is 3 weeks, patent period is up to 10 months.
Respiratory symptoms, coughing and possibly exercise intolerance.
Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces or bronchial lavage fluid by Baermann method or microscopic detection in bronchial lavage material.
Everywhere in Europe.
Final host is the cat, particularly strays, and intermediate stage larvae are found in molluscs. Cats are infected when they ingest an intermediate host. Pre-patent period is 7–9 weeks with patent period of several years.
Respiratory symptoms, coughing and possible exercise intolerance. There may be no signs (in a proportion of cats).
Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g of fresh faeces using the Baermann method or microscopic detection of larvae in bronchial lavage material.
In tropical and sub-tropical areas.
Dog, wild dog, fox, occasionally cats and wild cats.
Many infected dogs do not show clinical signs. In some dogs, infection can induce persistent vomiting with worms in the vomit. Sometimes difficultly in swallowing or interference with the action of the stomach.
Granulomatous lesions comprising the spirally coiled worms up to 8 cm in length. Eggs may be found in faeces or vomit otherwise diagnosis may be by endoscopy or radiography.
Lice are dorso-ventrally flattened wingless insects. They cause direct damage to the skin of affected animals and sucking lice can cause anaemia. The dog chewing louseTrichodectes canis, can also act as an intermediate host for the tapeworm Dipylidium caninum. Lice are highly host-specific with two main species on dogs Trichodectes canis and Linognathus setosus, and only one species Felicola subrostratus on cats. The entire life cycle is spent on the host. Adult chewing and sucking lice lay individual eggs, called nits, and cement these to hair shafts. The entire life cycle takes approximately 4–6 weeks.
All over Europe but rare, more common in stray cats. The only species of louse that commonly occurs on cats.
Infestations found on the skin, face, pinnae and back resulting in a dull, ruffled coat with scaling, crust and alopecia.
These lice are coloured beige or yellow with brown bands. Adults are 1–1.5 mm in length. Eggs are laid on the fur and hatch in 10–12 days with adult stage reached in 2–3 weeks. Diagnosis from lice or eggs (nits).
All over Europe rare except in Scandinavia where it is the predominant ectoparasite with chewing lice.
Skin lesions such as excoriation, military dermatitis or urticaria-like lesions and even necrotic skin lesions have been described. May cause anaemia in heavy infestation.
Primarily found in the head and neck areas and commonly under the collar. Long-eared dog breeds such as spaniel, basset and Afghan hounds are particularly susceptible.
Sporadic over most of Europe except Scandinavia where lice are the predominant ectoparasite.
A harmful ectoparasite of dogs particularly in puppies and old or debilitated dogs. Intense pruritus, scratching, biting, sleeplessness, nervousness and a matted coat are typical of T. canis infestation. Damage to the skin from scratching can result in inflammation, excoriation, alopecia and secondary bacterial involvement.
Commonly found on the head, neck and tail attached to the base of hairs and feeding on tissue debris. Often congregates around body orifices or wounds seeking moisture. Diagnosis from lice or eggs (nits).
Ixodidae or hard ticks are endemic throughout almost all of Europe, and there are more than 12 different species with varying biology and geographical distribution. Commonly found ticks are Ixodes ricinus, Rhipicephalus sanguineus and Dermacentor reticulatus. The main importance of ticks is their role as vectors of pathogenic agents which cause a range of tick-borne diseases (TBDs). Tick-borne diseases are detailed in ESCCAP Guideline 5: Control of Vector-borne diseases in Dogs and Cats.
Imported cases.
Primarily a tick of southern Europe and warmer climates. More prevalent during spring and summer but may feed all year round. In northern European countries R. sanguineus will not normally survive outdoors but may complete its life cycle inside kennels and houses.
On dogs the tick is often found in the ears and between the toes. Immature stages prefer the hair of the neck.
These ticks are yellow, reddish or blackish brown in colour. Size is highly variable and the engorged females can be 12 mm in length.
B. gibsoni and B. vulpes reported in imported dogs.
Also, autochthonous human cases of D. repens and D. immitis (x1).
Confirmed in red foxes and dogs in the Košice and Prešov regions.
Imported cases.
Imported cases.
Observed in foxes
Eastern Europe.
Dogs, cats, foxes, mink, wild carnivores and rarely humans.
Usually not evident.
Presence of eggs in faeces by the flotation method.
Yes, but rarely. One fatal incident was the result of consumption of inadequately cooked frogs’ legs. Intermediate hosts are frogs and freshwater snails.
Widespread in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and rarely red foxes. Intermediate hosts are domestic ruminants, primates and humans.
Asymptomatic in dogs. Infections in cattle, sheep and pigs do not show clinical signs.
Difficult as the adult tapeworm segments are sparsely shed and small. Identification is based on size (2.0–3.0 mm), ovoid in shape with a single genital pore.
Yes, one or both lungs can be affected in the human intermediate host. If in the liver, several hydatids may give rise to gross abdominal distention. If a cyst ruptures, there is risk of death from anaphylaxis.
Observed in red foxes.
Everywhere in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs, cats and foxes with ingestion of larval stages in meat or tissues of prey. Pre-patent period is 4–10 weeks with patent period of several years.
None reported.
Infective larvae are found in the abdominal cavity and liver.
Predominantly in southern Europe, sporadic in northern Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and foxes. Ingestion of L3 from environment, larvae in bitches' milk or paratenic hosts. Percutaneous infection of larvae. Pre-patent period is 2–3 weeks and patent period can be prolonged depending on immune status.
Diarrhoea, bloody diarrhoea, weight loss and anaemia. May be acute or chronic signs.
Egg detection by flotation from 3–5 g fresh or fixed faeces. Coproantigen assays detect infections from immature and adult worms, and are not linked to egg production. This enables the identification of infections during pre-patent periods and alleviates challenges of intermittent egg shedding associated with microscopic examinations.
Predominantly central and northern Europe.
Dogs, foxes and cats. Pre-patent period is about 3–4 weeks and patent period can be prolonged depending on immune status. Infection is by ingestion of embryonated eggs from soil or larvae from paratenic hosts.
Diarrhoea, weight loss and anaemia, may be acute or chronic signs.
Egg detection by flotation from 3–5 g fresh or fixed faeces. Coproantigen assays detect infections from immature and adult worms, and are not linked to egg production. This enables identification of infections during pre-patent periods and alleviates challenges of intermittent egg shedding associated with microscopic examinations.
Everywhere in Europe but most predominant in central and southern Europe.
Dogs by ingestion of embryonated eggs from the environment. Pre-patent period is 8 weeks and patent period is up to 18 months.
Asymptomatic but heavy infection associated with anaemia, diarrhoea and weight loss.
Egg detection by flotation from 3–5 g fresh or fixed faeces. Coproantigen assays detect infections from immature and adult worms, and are not linked to egg production. This enables identification of infections during pre-patent periods and alleviates challenges of intermittent egg shedding associated with microscopic examinations.
Everywhere in Europe but more predominant in southern Europe.
Final hosts are dogs, humans and cats with ingestion of embryonated eggs from soil or fur, larvae in milk or paratenic hosts. In utero from dam. Pre-patent period is variable from 9 days and patent period can be several months (3–15 months).
Bloody diarrhoea, dehydration and sometimes death.
Finding large numbers of the characteristic eggs in very young animals, usually in the first few weeks of life, are suggestive of strongyloidosis.
Yes, can cause several forms of disease: a) subcutaneous infection giving rise to an itching dermatitis, b) in the mucosa causing a chronic intestinal syndrome. Symptoms include sporadic diarrhoea, epigastric abdominal pain, heartburn, bloating and weight loss, c) mild transient form can induce mild coughing, and d) can occasionally induce neurological effects such as Gram-negative polymicrobial meningitis.
Endemic in Nitra, Trnava and Bratislava.
Portugal, Spain, South of France, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Bosnia, Czech Republic, Turkey, Hungary, Bulgaria and Romania.
Final hosts are dogs, cats and other carnivores. Rarely occurs in cats. L3 stage larvae are transmitted by mosquito vectors (intermediate host). Cutaneous infection. In dogs, pre-patent period is 4–6 months, patent period is several years. In cats, pre-patent period is approximately 8 months.
Low worm burden often asymptomatic. Infections with D.immitis may cause a severe and potentially fatal disease in dogs and cats. First clinical manifestation 5–7 months after infection: loss of condition, dyspnoea, cough. Chronic disease: cough, tachycardia, "Caval syndrome", tachypnoea. See GL5: Control of Vector-borne Diseases in Dogs and Cats.
Detection of microfilaria earliest 6 months after infection in dogs. For cats, detection of microfilaria from 8 months p.i. may be negative as levels can be very low. Detection improved by concentration of microfilaria with Difil Test or Knott’s Test. Microfilariae can be speciated using morphological, biochemical or molecular species identification in specialised laboratories only. Circulating antigens are detected from 5 months after infection with a sensitivity around 90% and approximately 100% if one female worm or more are present, respectively.
D. immitis is a zoonotic parasite, however human infection is rare.
Everywhere in Europe.
Final hosts are foxes, dogs and cats and infective larvae are ingested from the environment or from earthworms. Pre-patent period is 4 weeks and patent period Is 10–11 months.
Mild infections are usually asymptomatic. Heavy infection of C. hepatica can result in hepatic lesions and hepatic capillariosis is usually fatal. Capillaria philippinensis in the small intestine can cause fatal enteropathy.
Most infections are discovered at routine autopsy.
Yes, three species can infect man: C. philippinensis, C. hepatica and C. aerophila. Capillaria philippinensis infects the small intestine and is largely found in the Philippines with sporadic outbreaks in southern Europe. Capillaria hepatica infection is acquired through the ingestion of soil or via contaminated food or water. Human capillariosis from C. aerophila infection is very rare.
Everywhere in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and foxes and infection is orally from larvae within mollusc or paratenic host. Pre-patent period is 3 weeks, patent period is up to 10 months.
Respiratory symptoms, coughing and possibly exercise intolerance.
Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces or bronchial lavage fluid by Baermann method or microscopic detection in bronchial lavage material.
Everywhere in Europe.
Final host is the cat, particularly strays, and intermediate stage larvae are found in molluscs. Cats are infected when they ingest an intermediate host. Pre-patent period is 7–9 weeks with patent period of several years.
Respiratory symptoms, coughing and possible exercise intolerance. There may be no signs (in a proportion of cats).
Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g of fresh faeces using the Baermann method or microscopic detection of larvae in bronchial lavage material.
Endemic in the Nitra, Trnava, Bratislava and Košice regions.
Spain, South of France, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Bosnia, Czech Republic, Turkey and Hungary.
Final hosts are dogs, cats and other carnivores. L3 larvae are transmitted by mosquito vector (intermediate host). Cutaneous infection. Pre-patent period is 27–34 weeks, patent period – several years.
Mostly asymptomatic, very rarely modules or other cutaneous lesions.
Requires 2–4 ml EDTA blood. Detection of microfilariae from 6.2 months post infection. Detection improved by concentration of microfilariae with Difil Test or Knott’s Test. Microfilariae can be speciated using morphological, biochemical or molecular species identification by the use of specialised laboratories.
Yes, usually manifests itself in humans as a single subcutaneous nodule or a single worm in the conjuctiva.
In tropical and sub-tropical areas.
Dog, wild dog, fox, occasionally cats and wild cats.
Many infected dogs do not show clinical signs. In some dogs, infection can induce persistent vomiting with worms in the vomit. Sometimes difficultly in swallowing or interference with the action of the stomach.
Granulomatous lesions comprising the spirally coiled worms up to 8 cm in length. Eggs may be found in faeces or vomit otherwise diagnosis may be by endoscopy or radiography.
Lice are dorso-ventrally flattened wingless insects. They cause direct damage to the skin of affected animals and sucking lice can cause anaemia. The dog chewing louseTrichodectes canis, can also act as an intermediate host for the tapeworm Dipylidium caninum. Lice are highly host-specific with two main species on dogs Trichodectes canis and Linognathus setosus, and only one species Felicola subrostratus on cats. The entire life cycle is spent on the host. Adult chewing and sucking lice lay individual eggs, called nits, and cement these to hair shafts. The entire life cycle takes approximately 4–6 weeks.
All over Europe but rare, more common in stray cats. The only species of louse that commonly occurs on cats.
Infestations found on the skin, face, pinnae and back resulting in a dull, ruffled coat with scaling, crust and alopecia.
These lice are coloured beige or yellow with brown bands. Adults are 1–1.5 mm in length. Eggs are laid on the fur and hatch in 10–12 days with adult stage reached in 2–3 weeks. Diagnosis from lice or eggs (nits).
All over Europe rare except in Scandinavia where it is the predominant ectoparasite with chewing lice.
Skin lesions such as excoriation, military dermatitis or urticaria-like lesions and even necrotic skin lesions have been described. May cause anaemia in heavy infestation.
Primarily found in the head and neck areas and commonly under the collar. Long-eared dog breeds such as spaniel, basset and Afghan hounds are particularly susceptible.
Sporadic over most of Europe except Scandinavia where lice are the predominant ectoparasite.
A harmful ectoparasite of dogs particularly in puppies and old or debilitated dogs. Intense pruritus, scratching, biting, sleeplessness, nervousness and a matted coat are typical of T. canis infestation. Damage to the skin from scratching can result in inflammation, excoriation, alopecia and secondary bacterial involvement.
Commonly found on the head, neck and tail attached to the base of hairs and feeding on tissue debris. Often congregates around body orifices or wounds seeking moisture. Diagnosis from lice or eggs (nits).
Ixodidae or hard ticks are endemic throughout almost all of Europe, and there are more than 12 different species with varying biology and geographical distribution. Commonly found ticks are Ixodes ricinus, Rhipicephalus sanguineus and Dermacentor reticulatus. The main importance of ticks is their role as vectors of pathogenic agents which cause a range of tick-borne diseases (TBDs). Tick-borne diseases are detailed in ESCCAP Guideline 5: Control of Vector-borne diseases in Dogs and Cats.
Endemic in southern and south-eastern parts of the country.
Europe, from the Atlantic coast to Kazakhstan. Vector in dogs for Babesia canis.
Ticks are white with variegated brown splashes. Adult females are 3.8–4.2 mm unfed and 10 mm when engorged.
Imported cases.
Primarily a tick of southern Europe and warmer climates. More prevalent during spring and summer but may feed all year round. In northern European countries R. sanguineus will not normally survive outdoors but may complete its life cycle inside kennels and houses.
On dogs the tick is often found in the ears and between the toes. Immature stages prefer the hair of the neck.
These ticks are yellow, reddish or blackish brown in colour. Size is highly variable and the engorged females can be 12 mm in length.
Also, autochthonous human cases of D. repens and D. immitis (x1).
Imported cases.
Imported cases.
Observed in foxes
Eastern Europe.
Dogs, cats, foxes, mink, wild carnivores and rarely humans.
Usually not evident.
Presence of eggs in faeces by the flotation method.
Yes, but rarely. One fatal incident was the result of consumption of inadequately cooked frogs’ legs. Intermediate hosts are frogs and freshwater snails.
Widespread in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and rarely red foxes. Intermediate hosts are domestic ruminants, primates and humans.
Asymptomatic in dogs. Infections in cattle, sheep and pigs do not show clinical signs.
Difficult as the adult tapeworm segments are sparsely shed and small. Identification is based on size (2.0–3.0 mm), ovoid in shape with a single genital pore.
Yes, one or both lungs can be affected in the human intermediate host. If in the liver, several hydatids may give rise to gross abdominal distention. If a cyst ruptures, there is risk of death from anaphylaxis.
Endemic in the Žilina and Prešov regions.
Endemic in central and eastern Europe.
Final hosts are foxes, dogs, raccoon dogs and cats, after ingestion of larval stages in intermediate hosts (mainly rodents). Dogs should be prevented from having access to raw offal and carcases. Pre-patent period is 28 days and patent period can be for several months.
Asymptomatic.
Morphology and size of proglottids on faecal samples. Egg detection with flotation, sedimentation or combined techniques (not very sensitive and Taenia-type eggs cannot be differentiated morphologically). Coproantigen detection enables detection of pre-patent infections 10 days p.i. with a sensitivity of more than 90% if more than 50 worms are present, lower if less than 50 worms are present. PCR/sequencing allows species identification (from isolated eggs or proglottids).
Red foxes, raccoon dogs and rarely dogs and cats may excrete eggs of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces. The accidental oral consumption of E. multilocularis eggs causes alveolar echinococcosis in humans, which if untreated has potentially fatal consequences and this is therefore of major public health concern. Infection with eggs results in the formation of cysts also in animals such as pigs, horses and dogs.
Observed in red foxes.
Everywhere in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs, cats and foxes with ingestion of larval stages in meat or tissues of prey. Pre-patent period is 4–10 weeks with patent period of several years.
None reported.
Infective larvae are found in the abdominal cavity and liver.
Predominantly in southern Europe, sporadic in northern Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and foxes. Ingestion of L3 from environment, larvae in bitches' milk or paratenic hosts. Percutaneous infection of larvae. Pre-patent period is 2–3 weeks and patent period can be prolonged depending on immune status.
Diarrhoea, bloody diarrhoea, weight loss and anaemia. May be acute or chronic signs.
Egg detection by flotation from 3–5 g fresh or fixed faeces. Coproantigen assays detect infections from immature and adult worms, and are not linked to egg production. This enables the identification of infections during pre-patent periods and alleviates challenges of intermittent egg shedding associated with microscopic examinations.
Predominantly central and northern Europe.
Dogs, foxes and cats. Pre-patent period is about 3–4 weeks and patent period can be prolonged depending on immune status. Infection is by ingestion of embryonated eggs from soil or larvae from paratenic hosts.
Diarrhoea, weight loss and anaemia, may be acute or chronic signs.
Egg detection by flotation from 3–5 g fresh or fixed faeces. Coproantigen assays detect infections from immature and adult worms, and are not linked to egg production. This enables identification of infections during pre-patent periods and alleviates challenges of intermittent egg shedding associated with microscopic examinations.
Everywhere in Europe but most predominant in central and southern Europe.
Dogs by ingestion of embryonated eggs from the environment. Pre-patent period is 8 weeks and patent period is up to 18 months.
Asymptomatic but heavy infection associated with anaemia, diarrhoea and weight loss.
Egg detection by flotation from 3–5 g fresh or fixed faeces. Coproantigen assays detect infections from immature and adult worms, and are not linked to egg production. This enables identification of infections during pre-patent periods and alleviates challenges of intermittent egg shedding associated with microscopic examinations.
Everywhere in Europe but more predominant in southern Europe.
Final hosts are dogs, humans and cats with ingestion of embryonated eggs from soil or fur, larvae in milk or paratenic hosts. In utero from dam. Pre-patent period is variable from 9 days and patent period can be several months (3–15 months).
Bloody diarrhoea, dehydration and sometimes death.
Finding large numbers of the characteristic eggs in very young animals, usually in the first few weeks of life, are suggestive of strongyloidosis.
Yes, can cause several forms of disease: a) subcutaneous infection giving rise to an itching dermatitis, b) in the mucosa causing a chronic intestinal syndrome. Symptoms include sporadic diarrhoea, epigastric abdominal pain, heartburn, bloating and weight loss, c) mild transient form can induce mild coughing, and d) can occasionally induce neurological effects such as Gram-negative polymicrobial meningitis.
Everywhere in Europe.
Final host is the cat, particularly strays, and intermediate stage larvae are found in molluscs. Cats are infected when they ingest an intermediate host. Pre-patent period is 7–9 weeks with patent period of several years.
Respiratory symptoms, coughing and possible exercise intolerance. There may be no signs (in a proportion of cats).
Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g of fresh faeces using the Baermann method or microscopic detection of larvae in bronchial lavage material.
Everywhere in Europe.
Final hosts are foxes, dogs and cats and infective larvae are ingested from the environment or from earthworms. Pre-patent period is 4 weeks and patent period Is 10–11 months.
Mild infections are usually asymptomatic. Heavy infection of C. hepatica can result in hepatic lesions and hepatic capillariosis is usually fatal. Capillaria philippinensis in the small intestine can cause fatal enteropathy.
Most infections are discovered at routine autopsy.
Yes, three species can infect man: C. philippinensis, C. hepatica and C. aerophila. Capillaria philippinensis infects the small intestine and is largely found in the Philippines with sporadic outbreaks in southern Europe. Capillaria hepatica infection is acquired through the ingestion of soil or via contaminated food or water. Human capillariosis from C. aerophila infection is very rare.
Everywhere in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and foxes and infection is orally from larvae within mollusc or paratenic host. Pre-patent period is 3 weeks, patent period is up to 10 months.
Respiratory symptoms, coughing and possibly exercise intolerance.
Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces or bronchial lavage fluid by Baermann method or microscopic detection in bronchial lavage material.
In tropical and sub-tropical areas.
Dog, wild dog, fox, occasionally cats and wild cats.
Many infected dogs do not show clinical signs. In some dogs, infection can induce persistent vomiting with worms in the vomit. Sometimes difficultly in swallowing or interference with the action of the stomach.
Granulomatous lesions comprising the spirally coiled worms up to 8 cm in length. Eggs may be found in faeces or vomit otherwise diagnosis may be by endoscopy or radiography.
Lice are dorso-ventrally flattened wingless insects. They cause direct damage to the skin of affected animals and sucking lice can cause anaemia. The dog chewing louseTrichodectes canis, can also act as an intermediate host for the tapeworm Dipylidium caninum. Lice are highly host-specific with two main species on dogs Trichodectes canis and Linognathus setosus, and only one species Felicola subrostratus on cats. The entire life cycle is spent on the host. Adult chewing and sucking lice lay individual eggs, called nits, and cement these to hair shafts. The entire life cycle takes approximately 4–6 weeks.
All over Europe but rare, more common in stray cats. The only species of louse that commonly occurs on cats.
Infestations found on the skin, face, pinnae and back resulting in a dull, ruffled coat with scaling, crust and alopecia.
These lice are coloured beige or yellow with brown bands. Adults are 1–1.5 mm in length. Eggs are laid on the fur and hatch in 10–12 days with adult stage reached in 2–3 weeks. Diagnosis from lice or eggs (nits).
All over Europe rare except in Scandinavia where it is the predominant ectoparasite with chewing lice.
Skin lesions such as excoriation, military dermatitis or urticaria-like lesions and even necrotic skin lesions have been described. May cause anaemia in heavy infestation.
Primarily found in the head and neck areas and commonly under the collar. Long-eared dog breeds such as spaniel, basset and Afghan hounds are particularly susceptible.
Sporadic over most of Europe except Scandinavia where lice are the predominant ectoparasite.
A harmful ectoparasite of dogs particularly in puppies and old or debilitated dogs. Intense pruritus, scratching, biting, sleeplessness, nervousness and a matted coat are typical of T. canis infestation. Damage to the skin from scratching can result in inflammation, excoriation, alopecia and secondary bacterial involvement.
Commonly found on the head, neck and tail attached to the base of hairs and feeding on tissue debris. Often congregates around body orifices or wounds seeking moisture. Diagnosis from lice or eggs (nits).
Ixodidae or hard ticks are endemic throughout almost all of Europe, and there are more than 12 different species with varying biology and geographical distribution. Commonly found ticks are Ixodes ricinus, Rhipicephalus sanguineus and Dermacentor reticulatus. The main importance of ticks is their role as vectors of pathogenic agents which cause a range of tick-borne diseases (TBDs). Tick-borne diseases are detailed in ESCCAP Guideline 5: Control of Vector-borne diseases in Dogs and Cats.
Imported cases.
Primarily a tick of southern Europe and warmer climates. More prevalent during spring and summer but may feed all year round. In northern European countries R. sanguineus will not normally survive outdoors but may complete its life cycle inside kennels and houses.
On dogs the tick is often found in the ears and between the toes. Immature stages prefer the hair of the neck.
These ticks are yellow, reddish or blackish brown in colour. Size is highly variable and the engorged females can be 12 mm in length.
B. gibsoni and B. vulpes reported in imported dogs.
Also, autochthonous human cases of D. repens and D. immitis (x1).
Imported cases.
Imported cases.
Ticks are active in the spring and autumn. Avoid forested areas and open areas which are high risk. Regular tick treatment and checks for ticks are required. Prevent access to animal carcases.
Prevalent in the Scottish islands
Widespread in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and rarely red foxes. Intermediate hosts are domestic ruminants, primates and humans.
Asymptomatic in dogs. Infections in cattle, sheep and pigs do not show clinical signs.
Difficult as the adult tapeworm segments are sparsely shed and small. Identification is based on size (2.0–3.0 mm), ovoid in shape with a single genital pore.
Yes, one or both lungs can be affected in the human intermediate host. If in the liver, several hydatids may give rise to gross abdominal distention. If a cyst ruptures, there is risk of death from anaphylaxis.
Praziquantel treatment is compulsory 1–5 days before entering the UK. Further information on pet travel (including parasites) can be found on the UK's government services website, on the Scottish government website or on the ESCCAP UK & Ireland website.
Ticks are active in the spring and autumn. Avoid forested areas and open areas which are high risk. Regular tick treatment and checks for ticks are required. Prevent access to animal carcasses.
Praziquantel treatment is compulsory 1–5 days before entering the UK. Further information on pet travel (including parasites) can be found on the UK's government services website or on the ESCCAP UK & Ireland website.
Ticks are active in the spring and autumn. Avoid forested areas and open areas which are high risk. Regular tick treatment and checks for ticks are required. Prevent access to animal carcasses.
Prevalent in Wales and the Welsh Borders
Widespread in Europe.
Final hosts are dogs and rarely red foxes. Intermediate hosts are domestic ruminants, primates and humans.
Asymptomatic in dogs. Infections in cattle, sheep and pigs do not show clinical signs.
Difficult as the adult tapeworm segments are sparsely shed and small. Identification is based on size (2.0–3.0 mm), ovoid in shape with a single genital pore.
Yes, one or both lungs can be affected in the human intermediate host. If in the liver, several hydatids may give rise to gross abdominal distention. If a cyst ruptures, there is risk of death from anaphylaxis.
Praziquantel treatment is compulsory 1–5 days before entering the UK. Further information on pet travel (including parasites) can be found on the UK's government services website or on the ESCCAP UK & Ireland website.
Tick risk is high in spring and autumn (see also Babesiosis). Dogs hunting rodents (see also Tapeworms) or known to eat snails (see also Angiostrongylus vasorum) should be dewormed regularly.
Echinococcus multilocularis and alveolar echinococcosis are found throughout Switzerland. Angiostrongylus vasorum is found throughout Switzerland below an altitude of 600m.
Leishmania and Dirofilaria are not found. An exception is represented by the southern parts of the Canton of Ticino, where prophylaxis against Dirofilaria immitis is recommended. Concerning Leishmania, restricted vector populations are present on the territory, however no autochthonous cases have been found.
For Babesia canis and babesiosis there is a local risk (depending on the presence of infected vectors) below an altitude of 500m.
Risk for tick bites is highest in spring and autumn.
Endemic in central and eastern Europe.
Final hosts are foxes, dogs, raccoon dogs and cats, after ingestion of larval stages in intermediate hosts (mainly rodents). Dogs should be prevented from having access to raw offal and carcases. Pre-patent period is 28 days and patent period can be for several months.
Asymptomatic.
Morphology and size of proglottids on faecal samples. Egg detection with flotation, sedimentation or combined techniques (not very sensitive and Taenia-type eggs cannot be differentiated morphologically). Coproantigen detection enables detection of pre-patent infections 10 days p.i. with a sensitivity of more than 90% if more than 50 worms are present, lower if less than 50 worms are present. PCR/sequencing allows species identification (from isolated eggs or proglottids).
Red foxes, raccoon dogs and rarely dogs and cats may excrete eggs of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces. The accidental oral consumption of E. multilocularis eggs causes alveolar echinococcosis in humans, which if untreated has potentially fatal consequences and this is therefore of major public health concern. Infection with eggs results in the formation of cysts also in animals such as pigs, horses and dogs.
Present throughout the country below 600 metres of altitude in endemic foci.
Everywhere in endemic foci.
Final hosts are foxes and dogs. Infective larvae are ingested within molluscs or paratenic host. Pre-patent period 40–49 days, patent period up to 5 years.
After an asymptomatic period, respiratory signs such as cough, tachypnoea and dyspnoea are most obvious. Occasionally signs of coagulopathy (e.g. subcutaneous haematomas anaemia) and neurological signs are observed. Sudden death can occur even in the absence of respiratory signs.
Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces using the Baermann method, or microscopic detection of larvae in bronchial lavage material. A commercial serological test to detect circulating A. vasorum is now available.
Distribution: Babesia canis and Babesia vogeli cause babesiosis. Babesiosis is highly endemic in the western part of the country around the lake of Geneva (cantons of Geneva, Vaud and Fribourg) and occurs in an increasing number of endemic spots throughout the northern part of the Alps (i.e. Dotzigen (canton of Berne), Obergösgen (Solothurn), Baldegg (Lucerne), Jona and Wangs (Sankt Gallen)).
Infection: Final hosts are dogs, which are infected through Dermacentor reticulatus tick bites. The transmission of Babesia sporozoites occurs within 48-96 hours after the tick bite.
Clinical signs: Apathia, anorexia, hyperthermia, anaemia, icterus, haemoglobinuria, circulatory signs (acute life threatening process).
Diagnosis: Strong suspicion in case of tick infestation in an endemic area. Detection of merozoites in dyed blood smears in acute cases; detection of DNA in blood or serological detection of antibodies.
Further information about pet travel can be found on the Swiss Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office website.
Tick risk is high in spring and autumn. Dogs hunting rodents or known to eat snails should be dewormed regularly.
Endemic in central and eastern Europe.
Final hosts are foxes, dogs, raccoon dogs and cats, after ingestion of larval stages in intermediate hosts (mainly rodents). Dogs should be prevented from having access to raw offal and carcases. Pre-patent period is 28 days and patent period can be for several months.
Asymptomatic.
Morphology and size of proglottids on faecal samples. Egg detection with flotation, sedimentation or combined techniques (not very sensitive and Taenia-type eggs cannot be differentiated morphologically). Coproantigen detection enables detection of pre-patent infections 10 days p.i. with a sensitivity of more than 90% if more than 50 worms are present, lower if less than 50 worms are present. PCR/sequencing allows species identification (from isolated eggs or proglottids).
Red foxes, raccoon dogs and rarely dogs and cats may excrete eggs of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces. The accidental oral consumption of E. multilocularis eggs causes alveolar echinococcosis in humans, which if untreated has potentially fatal consequences and this is therefore of major public health concern. Infection with eggs results in the formation of cysts also in animals such as pigs, horses and dogs.
Present throughout the country below 600metres altitude
Everywhere in endemic foci.
Final hosts are foxes and dogs. Infective larvae are ingested within molluscs or paratenic host. Pre-patent period 40–49 days, patent period up to 5 years.
After an asymptomatic period, respiratory signs such as cough, tachypnoea and dyspnoea are most obvious. Occasionally signs of coagulopathy (e.g. subcutaneous haematomas anaemia) and neurological signs are observed. Sudden death can occur even in the absence of respiratory signs.
Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces using the Baermann method, or microscopic detection of larvae in bronchial lavage material. A commercial serological test to detect circulating A. vasorum is now available.
Babesia canis giving rise to babesiosis is higly endemic in the western part of the country around Geneva.
Distribution: Babesia canis and Babesia vogeli cause babesiosis. Babesiosis is highly endemic in the western part of the country around the lake of Geneva (cantons of Geneva, Vaud and Fribourg) and occurs in an increasing number of endemic spots throughout the northern part of the Alps (i.e. Dotzigen (canton of Berne), Obergösgen (Solothurn), Baldegg (Lucerne), Jona and Wangs (Sankt Gallen)).
Infection: Final hosts are dogs, which are infected through Dermacentor reticulatus tick bites. The transmission of Babesia sporozoites occurs within 48-96 hours after the tick bite.
Clinical signs: Apathia, anorexia, hyperthermia, anaemia, icterus, haemoglobinuria, circulatory signs (acute life threatening process).
Diagnosis: Strong suspicion in case of tick infestation in an endemic area. Detection of merozoites in dyed blood smears in acute cases; detection of DNA in blood or serological detection of antibodies.
Further information about pet travel can be found on the Swiss Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office website.
Tick risk is high in spring and autumn. Dogs hunting rodents or known to eat snails should be dewormed regularly.
Endemic in central and eastern Europe.
Final hosts are foxes, dogs, raccoon dogs and cats, after ingestion of larval stages in intermediate hosts (mainly rodents). Dogs should be prevented from having access to raw offal and carcases. Pre-patent period is 28 days and patent period can be for several months.
Asymptomatic.
Morphology and size of proglottids on faecal samples. Egg detection with flotation, sedimentation or combined techniques (not very sensitive and Taenia-type eggs cannot be differentiated morphologically). Coproantigen detection enables detection of pre-patent infections 10 days p.i. with a sensitivity of more than 90% if more than 50 worms are present, lower if less than 50 worms are present. PCR/sequencing allows species identification (from isolated eggs or proglottids).
Red foxes, raccoon dogs and rarely dogs and cats may excrete eggs of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces. The accidental oral consumption of E. multilocularis eggs causes alveolar echinococcosis in humans, which if untreated has potentially fatal consequences and this is therefore of major public health concern. Infection with eggs results in the formation of cysts also in animals such as pigs, horses and dogs.
In southern Ticino there is a low infection risk for the heartworm Dirofilaria immitis; therefore, prophylaxis against D. immitis is recommended.
Portugal, Spain, South of France, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Bosnia, Czech Republic, Turkey, Hungary, Bulgaria and Romania.
Final hosts are dogs, cats and other carnivores. Rarely occurs in cats. L3 stage larvae are transmitted by mosquito vectors (intermediate host). Cutaneous infection. In dogs, pre-patent period is 4–6 months, patent period is several years. In cats, pre-patent period is approximately 8 months.
Low worm burden often asymptomatic. Infections with D.immitis may cause a severe and potentially fatal disease in dogs and cats. First clinical manifestation 5–7 months after infection: loss of condition, dyspnoea, cough. Chronic disease: cough, tachycardia, "Caval syndrome", tachypnoea. See GL5: Control of Vector-borne Diseases in Dogs and Cats.
Detection of microfilaria earliest 6 months after infection in dogs. For cats, detection of microfilaria from 8 months p.i. may be negative as levels can be very low. Detection improved by concentration of microfilaria with Difil Test or Knott’s Test. Microfilariae can be speciated using morphological, biochemical or molecular species identification in specialised laboratories only. Circulating antigens are detected from 5 months after infection with a sensitivity around 90% and approximately 100% if one female worm or more are present, respectively.
D. immitis is a zoonotic parasite, however human infection is rare.
Present throughout the country below 700m altitude
Everywhere in endemic foci.
Final hosts are foxes and dogs. Infective larvae are ingested within molluscs or paratenic host. Pre-patent period 40–49 days, patent period up to 5 years.
After an asymptomatic period, respiratory signs such as cough, tachypnoea and dyspnoea are most obvious. Occasionally signs of coagulopathy (e.g. subcutaneous haematomas anaemia) and neurological signs are observed. Sudden death can occur even in the absence of respiratory signs.
Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces using the Baermann method, or microscopic detection of larvae in bronchial lavage material. A commercial serological test to detect circulating A. vasorum is now available.
There is a low risk of Leishmania in central and southern Ticino. Restricted vector populations are present on the territory but neither infected vectors nor autochthonous cases have been found.
Further information about pet travel can be found on the Swiss Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office website.
