Neospora spp

From Felipedia

Neospora caninum, a microscopic protozoan parasite, has been recently described and has since been shown to be a major cause of bovine abortion throughout the world[1].

In some areas, Neospora caninum is thought to be responsible for over 30% of all abortions in cattle and initial investigations in North Queensland dairy herds estimate that about 26% of these cattle are infected with this parasite. A survey of 1400 beef cattle from 32 central Queensland beef properties showed over 15% of the animals infected, only one property not having a positive.

Also, researchers in the United States have reported a 5% decrease in milk production in infected first-lactation dairy heifers and also decreased weight gains in infected beef cattle. Neospora infections have also been reported from many other animals, including cats, and a close relative of this parasite, Neospora hughesi has just been described from horses. However, this review will focus only on the impact of Neospora caninum on cattle.

Clinical signs

The disease is most frequently seen in kittens and young cats, typically causing a hind-limb paresis or ataxia, progressing to affect forelimbs, swallowing and breathing. Rigid hyperextension develops in many cases. Bloos results often show elevated CK levels. Other clinical signs which have been reported are forelimb ataxia, head tremors, myocarditis and pneumonia. The disease can prove fatal in young kittens often with several litter mates being affected; but some cats respond to treatment, usually with clindamycin.

The life cycle of this parasite is not fully understood, however it is known that transplacental infection from subclinically infected bitches does occur and therefore can cause particular problems in breeding programmes. Testing of breeding bitches is recommended.