Survey of Gastrointestinal Parasites in Cats and Dogs in Peri-Urban Communities of Abuja, North Central Nigeria

Companion animals including cats and dogs are important reservoirs for zoonotic gastrointestinal parasites such as Toxocara species, Ancylostoma species, Dipylidium caninum, and Giardia duodenalis, which pose public health risks particularly to children who frequent contaminated environments. This study surveys gastrointestinal parasites in pet cats and dogs in peri-urban communities of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, North Central Nigeria. A cross-sectional design was adopted, collecting fresh faecal samples from 200 dogs and 100 cats attending veterinary clinics and community animal shelters across Gwagwalada, Kuje, and Bwari area councils. Samples were processed using the direct smear, formal-ether concentration, and floatation techniques with zinc sulphate solution. Pet owner questionnaires collected data on deworming history, housing conditions, outdoor access, owner age, and handwashing after animal contact. Recent literature from 2020 to 2024 documents high Toxocara seroprevalence in children from peri-urban FCT communities, with inadequate pet deworming identified as a key risk factor. This study will generate species-specific prevalence data and assess deworming compliance patterns among pet owners. Findings will be communicated to the FCT veterinary directorate and the Department of Public Health for revision of pet ownership guidelines. Keywords: gastrointestinal parasites, companion animals, peri-urban FCT, zoonoses, pet deworming.