This is the third of a three-part series.

Coccidia are one-celled parasites which may infect young animals that have been weakened in some way. Therefore, signs of illness caused by coccidiosis are most prevalent under conditions of poor nutrition, poor sanitation, overcrowding, or after stresses, such as weaning. Infection results when an animal ingests infective eggs (oocysts). These oocysts enter the environment in the feces of an infected pet and develop to cause infection in the intestines.

The most common signs in severe cases are diarrhea (sometimes bloody), weight loss, and dehydration. Your veterinarian will combine the results of fecal examinations with observations of signs and intestinal abnormalities to confirm the diagnosis and treat appropriately.

Sanitation is important, especially in catteries or kennels where large numbers of animals are housed. Feces should be removed frequently, and fecal contamination of food and water should be prevented. Cages and utensils should be disinfected daily. Insect control is also important.

Giardiasis is a long-term, intestinal protozoal infection caused by Giardia. It is seen worldwide in domestic and wild mammals and birds, as well as people. Infection is common in cats. Giardia can be found in fecal samples from pets, with a higher rate of infection in younger animals.

Giardia live in the small intestine, where they attach and multiply. They produce cysts that are passed in the feces. Transmission occurs when animals ingest these cysts, either through contact with an infected animal or a contaminated environment. Shedding of cysts via defecation by an infected pet may be continuous over several days and weeks but is often intermittent.

Giardia infection sometimes causes no signs. In other cases, it causes a poor appetite, weight loss, vomiting, and long-term diarrhea, particularly in kittens. A diagnosis is usually made by identifying Giardia cysts in stool samples. Since Giardia cysts are not shed continuously, several fecal tests may be needed for diagnosis. To treat giardiasis, your veterinarian will prescribe a drug that is effective against protozoa.

Giardia cysts in the feces can be a source of reinfection for pets, particularly those in crowded conditions, such as catteries and kennels. Prompt removal of feces limits environmental contamination. Dogs and cats may be infected with a type of Giardia species that only infects pets or have a species that also infects people. It is important to wash your hands properly after handling infected animals or their feces.

[Reference: Merck Veterinary Manual]

Cheryl Ragalevsky is a local veterinarian with 35 years of experience. She is also a Companion Animal End-of-Life Doula, assisting with the determination of your pet’s quality of life, your choices for hospice care, expectations of the euthanasia process, and support as you go through this difficult journey. Have a question for Dr. Ragalevsky? Please send it to us at fltimes@fltimes.com.

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