Advances in Animal Sciences (Volume 1) | Doi : 10.37446/volbook022025/61-75

PAID ACCESS | Published on : 09-Oct-2025

Protozoan Infections and their Role in Abortion in Domestic Animals

  • Tamilam T V
  • Assistant Professor, Department of Veterinary Parasitology, Veterinary College and Research Institute, Salem, TANUVAS, Tamil Nadu, India.

Abstract

Protozoan infections are a significant cause of reproductive failure and abortion in domestic animals, leading to substantial economic losses in livestock production. The most commonly implicated protozoan parasites include Toxoplasma gondii, Neospora caninum, Babesia spp., Trypanosoma spp., Leishmania spp., Sarcocystis spp., Besnoitia spp., and Tritrichomonas foetus. These parasites affect a wide range of species, including cattle, sheep, goats, and dogs. The mechanisms by which these protozoa induce abortion are varied, including direct tissue damage, immune modulation, and interference with placental function. Effective management of these infections requires accurate diagnosis, early detection, and appropriate therapeutic interventions, which may include antimicrobial drugs, supportive care, and vector control strategies. This review discusses the pathogenesis of protozoan-induced abortion, clinical signs, diagnostic techniques, available treatments, and preventive measures to control transmission in domestic animal populations. Early intervention, herd management, and biosecurity protocols are critical to minimizing the impact of these parasitic infections on reproductive health.

Keywords

Protozoal abortion, Toxoplasma gondii, Neospora caninum, Babesia spp., Trypanosoma spp., Leishmania spp., Sarcocystis spp., Besnoitia spp., Tritrichomonas foetus

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