Giardia are single-celled parasites that invade the small intestines of cats, dogs and humans. According to PetEducation.com, most veterinary researchers believe that although many cats serve as hosts to giardia organisms, few actually develop the disease caused by the parasite.
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Features
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According to Pawprints and Purrs, Inc., healthy cats are unlikely to develop giardiasis. It typically occurs in large groups of animals in shelters, catteries or pet stores.
Transmission
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Cats become infected by ingesting giardia cysts, which are left in the soil or in water by infected animals. Once inside a cat's intestines, the cysts rupture and release trophozoites, the active form of giardia.
Symptoms
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Most giardia infestations are asymptomatic. According to PetEducation.com, when giardisis actually develops, the predominant symptom is pale, greasy, foul-smelling and sometimes bloody diarrhea.
Diagnosis
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The presence of giardia is difficult to detect, so diagnosis may take several days of testing. Common tests include a fecal smear, serial stool samples (stool test every day for three days) and the use of a special solution to separate cysts from the feces.
Treatment
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Drugs commonly used for treating giardisis in cats include metronidazole, furazolidone and fenbendazole. Further fluid therapy or antibiotics may be necessary if a bacterial infection or dehydration have occurred.
Prognosis
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Most cats with giardisis make a full recovery. However, if your cat is geriatric or has a compromised immune system, it is at greater risk for complications or even death.
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