Feline coccidiosis is a disease caused by coccidia parasites that can cause diarrhea, dehydration, and other gastrointestinal issues in cats:
Signs
Diarrhea is the most common sign, but many cats with coccidia don't show any other symptoms. In kittens and debilitated cats, coccidiosis can cause more severe symptoms, including watery or mucousy diarrhea, dehydration, abdominal distress, loss of appetite, and vomiting.
Treatment
The most common treatment for coccidiosis is sulfadimethoxine (Albon®), an oral antimicrobial medication, given for 5–20 days. Other treatments include amprolium (Albac/Amprol Hi-E®), ponazuril (Marquis®), or toltrazuril (Baycox®).
Diagnosis
A veterinarian can diagnose coccidiosis by examining a stool sample under a microscope for oocysts, which are immature coccidia. PCR tests can also be used to detect the coccidia's genetic material.
Prevention
To minimize exposure to coccidia, you can keep your cat indoors and have their feces tested yearly for parasites. You can also help reduce the risk of infection by frequently removing feces and thoroughly cleaning the litter box.
Coccidiosis is usually more serious in kittens, but it can occur in older cats as well. Severe infections can be fatal, especially in kittens.
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