RESEARCH FOR MALASSEZIA PACHYDERMATIS IN DOGS AND CATS FROM PET SHOPS IN THE MUNICIPALITIES OF PIMENTA BUENO AND CACOAL

Abstract

Malassezia pachydermatis encompasses a group of fungi that normally inhabit the skin of dogs and other animals. Its prevalence occurs due to climate changes, including changes in temperature, pH and humidity levels, as well as imbalances in the skin microbiota. The shared nature of environments in pet stores may play a role in the spread and increase of these microorganisms. The objective of this study is to carry out research into the presence of Malassezia pachydermatis in dogs and cats that frequent pet stores in Pimenta Bueno and Cacoal – RO. 100 otological cytological samples were analyzed, collected by veterinarians from several clinics in Pimenta Bueno and Cacoal, and analyzed at the VetCare veterinary laboratory, in Cacoal. Subsequently, the animals were divided into three distinct groups: Group 1, composed of dogs and cats that frequent baths and grooming and present manifestations of Malassezia sp.; Group 2, formed by dogs and cats that frequent the pet shop without manifestations of Malassezia sp.; and Group 3, which includes dogs and cats that do not frequent the pet store, but show manifestations of the condition. Of the 100 animals analyzed, 48% tested positive and 52% negative, with the positives distributed as follows: 35% in Group 1 and 13% in Group 3, while the negatives were concentrated in Group 2 (52%). The results of this study highlight the need for strict hygiene control in the bathing and grooming environment, due to the high frequency of M. pachydermatis in pet shop animals.