Identification and prevalence of Capnocytophaga canimorsus and Capnocytophaga cynodegmi from the dog population in Wrocław, Poland

Abstract

The bacterium Capnocytophaga spp. is a part of the oral microbiome of dogs, which has zoonotic potential. This study aimed to assess factors that influence the prevalence of Capnocytophaga cynodegmi and Capnocytophaga canimorsus in Wrocaw’s dog population. Molecular detection (PCR) involved 105 swabs, examining parameters such as oral cavity condition, underlying health issues, recent antibiotics, age, medications, material collection, and dog chews. The study highlighted significant associations between the presence of C. cynodegmi and oral cavity condition, material collection method, and use of dog’s chews. Correlations obtained in this study between the oral health of Wroclaw’s dog population and the presence of C. cynodegmi suggest its significance in the oral microbiome of dogs. Limitations, including the small sample size, highlight the need for more research to comprehensively understand additional factors that affect the prevalence of Capnocytophaga spp. in dogs.