Cats are not small dogs: is there an immunological explanation for why cats are less affected by arthropod-borne disease than dogs?

摘要: It is widely recognized that cats appear to be less frequently affected by arthropod-borne infectious diseases than dogs and share fewer zoonotic pathogens with man. This impression supported the relative lack of scientific publications related feline vector-borne infections. review explores possible reasons for difference between two most common small companion animal species, including hypothesis might have a genetically-determined immunological resistance arthropod vectors or microparasites they transmit. A number simple possibilities account lower prevalence these in cats, factors lifestyle behaviour cat, lesser spend on preventative healthcare reduced opportunities research funding animals. The dog cat substantially similar immune system components, but differences function part markedly distinct clinicopathological appearance autoimmune, allergic, idiopathic inflammatory, immunodeficiency, neoplastic species. Cats greater genetic diversity much linkage disequilibrium compared canine breed groups. Immune intrinsically nature intestinal microbiome subtle microbial populations also impact disease resistance. apparent susceptibility are likely complex, warrant further investigation.