Coccidiosis is an intestinal infection caused by an internal parasite called coccidia. This infection can cause watery diarrhea and vomiting, and even death in extreme cases. It is usually treated with antibiotics; however, some cats and kittens may need additional supportive treatment for their symptoms. Preventing coccidiosis through keeping a clean environment is the most effective supportive treatment.
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The Coccidia Parasite
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Although they are intestinal parasites, coccidia are not worms. Rather, they are one-celled organisms known as protozoa. Cystoisospora felis and Cystoisospora rivolta are the two most common forms of coccidia to infect cats. Coccidia protozoa are spread when cats come in contact with feces infected with the infective coccidia oocysts, microscopic eggs spread by mice, cockroaches and flies. Kittens often get the oocysts from contact with their mothers.
Diagnosing Coccidia
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The presence of coccidia is diagnosed by thoroughly examining a stool sample under a microscope. It can also be diagnosed with a blood test.
Coccidia Treatment
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The coccidiosis infection is commonly treated with the antibiotics sulfonamide and nitrofurazone, usually over a period of up to 14 days . Sulfonamides are often given in liquid form. These drugs do not kill the protozoans; instead, they prevent the organisms from reproducing. This process results in the oocysts gradually being shed from the cat or kitten̵7;s intestinal tract while she develops an immunity to the infection.
Supportive Treatment of Coccidia
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A bland diet will help soothe the cat̵7;s irritated intestinal tract. Encouraging the infected cat to drink water will aid in replacing the fluids lost through diarrhea and vomiting. The cat̵7;s environment should be kept clean and free of rodents and other vermin. Cleaning the cat̵7;s environment with a solution of water and bleach or ammonia, and steam-cleaning surfaces, are both effective means of preventing the spread of coccidiosis during treatment.
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