Etiology, Distribution and Transmission

Canine Leishmania infections are predominantly due to Leishmania infantum. However, other zoonotic species of Leishmania may infect dogs.

The information in these guidelines is focused on infection and disease due to L. infantum.

Leishmania infantum infection is typically transmitted by a specific group of phlebotomine vectors (sand flies) which represent the main risk of transmission. Apart from dogs and humans, L. infantum may infect a wide range of mammal species, including cats.

Non-vectorial modalities of transmission have also been demonstrated (sexual, vertical and blood transfusion).