Domestic cats as overlooked reservoirs for zoonotic parasites: New records and molecular confirmation of Echinochasmus spp., Opisthorchis felineus, Metagonimus romanicus and Physaloptera praeputialis

Domestic cats can act as important carrier for numerous zoonotic parasites. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence, diversity, and risk factors associated with digestive and respiratory endoparasites in 338 domestic cats originating from nine Romanian counties between 2017 and 2025. Copro-microscopic examinations using flotation, sedimentation, and larval concentration techniques, complemented by molecular confirmation for unusual findings, revealed an overall parasitic prevalence of 44.1%, comprising 17 species, of which 10 had zoonotic potential. Toxocara cati (26.6%), Ancylostoma spp. (13.3%), Aelurostrongylus abstrusus (9.5%), and Cystoisospora spp. (6.2%) were the most frequently identified parasites. Outdoor access and mouser lifestyle were significantly associated with increased infection risk, whereas other host-related factors showed limited influence. Three potentially zoonotic trematodes, Echinochasmus spp., Opisthorchis felineus , and Metagonimus romanicus were identified in cats from Tulcea County. Physaloptera praeputialis was identified in a cat from Alba County, representing the first confirmed case in Romania and the first molecular confirmation in Europe. Continuous epidemiological surveillance, improved diagnostic strategies, and public education are essential. • Ten out of 17 parasites identified in infected cats (58.82%) have zoonotic potential. • Toxocara cati, Ancylostoma spp. , A. abstrusus , and Cystoisospora spp. predominated. • First Romanian and European molecular report of Physaloptera praeputialis in cats. • Three zoonotic trematodes were identified in a city adjacent to the Danube Delta. • Outdoor access and mouser behavior significantly increased infection risk.