Efficacy of tafenoquine in dogs naturally infected with Babesia gibsoni

Abstract

There are various treatments have been reported for canine babesiosis. However, treatment methods that can eliminate the parasites have not been established. The current study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effects of tafenoquine against natural Babesia gibsoni infection. In total, seven dogs with canine babesiosis and one dog with canine babesiosis not controlled with diminazene aceturate were included. Oral tafenoquine at dose of 10–20 mg/kg was administered orally on days 0 and 7. The hematocrit level and platelet count of the dogs were measured. The clinical symptoms of all dogs rapidly improved. Two dogs relapsed. However, their symptoms improved after two more doses of tafenoquine. Although recurrence could not be prevented, tafenoquine might be a treatment against canine babesiosis.