Coccidiosis is an infectious disease caused by the parasitizing and multiplying of a type of protozoan called coccidia in the small intestine.
Coccidia that grows in the cell of the digestive tract is excreted through faeces.
Because coccidia is so small, it can only be seen under a microscope instead of the naked eye.
Each oval capsule represents the infectious oocysts (immature coccidia).
<Symptoms>
The main symptoms are diarrhea and vomiting.
Due to the poor condition of the intestine, other bacterial or viral infections might occur simultaneously, leading to symptoms such as lethargy, loss of appetite and fever etc.
The symptoms are easier to identify in younger pets. However, in some cases, symptoms do not even show in some older dogs and cats.
Coccidiosis is a disease that should be taken seriously as it might cause a loss of appetite and low blood pressure especially in puppies and kittens.
<Treatments>
Coccidiosis can be treated by medication.
In some cases, this disease cannot be cured completely with a single dose of medication. Hence, it may be necessary to administer the medication several times.
<Disinfection, etc.>
It is hard to get rid of oocysts (immature coccidia) with normal disinfectants and detergents. Therefore, reinfection might occur if oocysts are still present in your carpets or bed. If your pets are diagnosed with coccidiosis, it is crucial to get rid of their faeces immediately.
Since coccidia is sensitive to high heat, operating a steam cleaner with 100 degree Celsius for a minute could help get rid of them.
Grassy areas and soil are also a source of infection, and it might cause symptoms that could last a month.
Also, since children might be a source of risk of coccidiosis, it is recommended that there should be no contact between your children and pets from the beginning till the end of the treatments.
Parasites, such as coccidia, are commonly found in younger pets. Therefore, it is recommended that you bring your pets’ stool for a faeces test whenever you come to our hospital for a vaccination or a health checkup.
Animal Hospital in Shibuya, Ebisu, and Daikanyama.
HALU Animal Hospital
03-6712-7299
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