Sandflies transmit the parasite through bites to the skin and the incubation period of the transmitted parasite can range from a few weeks to years. Leishmaniasis is acquired in specific areas where the disease is prevalent: the Mediterranean, central and southern America and Mexico, although there have been several cases reported in Texas recently. While there is treatment for this disease, animals may remain persistently infected.

Leishmaniasis is a serious, chronic disease caused by a protozoal organism. It is not common in cats but is more often seen in dogs and normally transmitted to other hosts (including humans) through a mechanical vector (phlebotomine sandfly). Whilst uncommon in cats, when symptoms present they usually affect the skin or visceral organs.

 

Your veterinarian will perform a complete physical exam, looking for skin and ocular lesions which are common signs of leishmaniasis. As symptom of this disease are diverse, you will need to provide your veterinarian with a complete list of symptoms your pet has been experiencing. It is important to give your veterinarian a complete history of your pet’s travel to any commonly affected locations. As the incubation period can be long, even travel to an affected area several years ago should be communicated. Diagnosis is usually confirmed using cytology, histology, isolation or polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on samples of skin, lymph nodes, blood or any affected tissue.

If the outbreak is not severe, your cat will be treated as an outpatient. The most commonly administered drug is allopurinol, which is usually effective. Other medications that may be tried are miltefosine and N-methylglucamine antimoniate. In addition, skin nodules may be surgically removed. Your veterinarian will discuss risk factors and how to manage outbreaks. Leishmaniasis is a long-term disease and, although outbreaks can be treated, it may recur. If outbreaks are uncontrolled by medication or organ failure has begun, prognosis is poor and euthanasia may be recommended.