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What are Coccidia?
Coccidia are small protozoan's (one-celled organisms) that multiply in the intestinal tracts of dogs and cats, most commonly in kittens and puppies less than six months of age, in adult animals whose immune system is suppressed or in animals who are stressed in other ways (e.g., change in ownership, other disease present).
Most Coccidia are of the genus called Isospora. Isospora canis and I. ohioensis are the species most often encountered in dogs; I. felis and I. rivolta are the most common in cats. Regardless of which species is present we generally refer to the disease as coccidiosis (or coccidia). As a puppy or kitten ages it tends to develop a natural immunity to the effects of Coccidia. As an adult it may carry Coccidia in its intestines, shed the cysts in the feces, but experience no ill effects.
The most common genera are Eimeria and Isospora.
Sarcocystis spp (There are many types of Coccidia, Sarcocystis spp being one of them)
How are Coccidia transmitted?
A puppy or kitten is not born with the Coccidia organisms in its intestine. However, once born, the puppy or kitten is frequently exposed to its mother's feces and if the mother is shedding the infective cysts in her feces then the young animals will likely ingest them and Coccidia will develop within their intestines. Since young puppies and kittens, usually those less than six months of age, have no immunity to Coccidia, the organisms reproduce in great numbers and parasitize the young animal's intestines. Many times this has severe effects.
From exposure to the Coccidia in feces to the onset of the illness is about 13 days. Most puppies and kittens who are ill from Coccidia are, therefore, two weeks of age and older. Although most infections are the result of being passed down from the mother at birth, this is not always the case.
Any infected kitten or puppy is contagious to other puppies and kittens. In breeding facilities, shelters, animal hospitals, etc., it is wise to isolate those infected from those that are not.
Coccidia organisms are not limited to dogs and cats. It can also be found in other animals such as kid goats and bird’s, usually transmitted the same way.
What are the symptoms of Coccidiosis?
The primary sign of an animal suffering with Coccidiosis is diarrhea. The diarrhea may be mild to severe depending on the level of infection. Blood and mucous may be present, especially in advanced cases. Severely affected animals may also vomit, lose their appetite, become dehydrated, and in some instances, die from the disease.
A microscopic fecal exam by a veterinarian will detect the cysts confirming a diagnosis.
What are the risks?
Although many cases are mild it is not uncommon to see severe, bloody diarrhea result in dehydration and even death. This is most common in animals who are ill or infected with other parasites, bacteria or viruses. Coccidiosis is very contagious, especially among young kittens and puppies. Entire kennels and catteries may become contaminated with puppies and kittens of many age groups simultaneously affected.
Treating Coccidiosis?
This involves a short treatment of medication. An antibiotic with an anti-parasitic may help. Sometimes a repeat treatment may be necessary. Occasionally the treatment is not effective and the Coccidia may remain in the bowel for months or years.