Abstract
BACKGROUND: Helicobacter species are spiral-shaped gram-negative bacteria that colonize the gastrointestinal tract of humans and animals. Helicobacter pylori are most famous for their role in gastritis, peptic ulcers, and gastric cancer. Their unique adaptation to the harsh acidic environment of the stomach is a key aspect of pathogenicity. AIM: This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of Helicobacter spp. in cats in Kazan and identify the species of these bacteria using molecular genetic methods. METHODS: The research is based on endoscopic, microscopic, and molecular genetic methods of investigation. Cats with pronounced clinical signs of gastrointestinal disease were examined. RESULTS: Endoscopic examination revealed ulcers, erosions, and hyperplasia in all cases. Microscopic examination of biopsy samples from these animals identified characteristic spirally shaped Helicobacter spp. in 70% of cases. A noninvasive method for the laboratory diagnosis of Helicobacter infection was used to identify Helicobacter spp. in cats. Fecal samples from cats with gastrointestinal clinical signs and from asymptomatic cats were investigated using polymerase chain reaction method. The deoxyribonucleic acid of Helicobacter spp was present in 61.7% of cases, with the species Helicobacter rappini being the most frequently isolated (51.35%). Additionally, H. pylori was detected in 18.92% of cases and Helicobacter bilis in 45.95%, highlighting the variety of bacterial combinations in the stomachs of cats. CONCLUSION: Based on the obtained data, this study concluded that there exists an important relationship between Helicobacter spp. and gastrointestinal diseases in cats. Furthermore, this widespread occurrence indicated a high degree of adaptation of these bacteria to this animal species.