Helminths in feline coprolites up to 9000 years in the Brazilian Northeast

- At least seven families of helminths were identified in feline coprolites.
- It was possible to differentiate feline parasites from those related to their prey.
- For the first time Toxocara cati was identified in coprolites.
- The distribution of Spirometra was expanded geographically and in temporal scale.
- Zoonotic species were identified in areas used by prehistoric human groups.

The identification of parasites in animal coprolites has been an important tool to promote knowledge about parasites infecting different zoological groups in the past. It also helps the understanding of parasites causing zoonoses, which is especially important for animals that were part of the diet of prehistoric human groups. Nevertheless, the study of feline coprolites is still scarce. This study analyzed 30 feline coprolites from southeastern Piauí taken from archeological sites used by human groups in the past. Eggs of Spirometra sp., Toxocara cati, Spirurida, Oxyuroidea Calodium cf. hepaticum, Trichuris cf. muris, Trichuris sp., and other Trichuridae, Oncicola sp., and nematode larvae were found. Some of these findings reflect the consumption of infected prey. The role of felines in the transmission of helminthes causing zoonoses in the region is discussed.