General
Information
Coccidiosis
is an infection with a one-celled organism; these organisms
are classified as protozoa and are called Coccidia. Coccidia
are NOT worms; they are microscopic parasites, which live
within the cells of the intestinal lining. Because they
live in the intestinal tract and commonly cause diarrhea,
they are often confused with worms.
Problems
Caused By Coccidial Infection
In puppies and debilitated
adult dogs, they may cause severe, watery diarrhea, dehydration,
abdominal distress, and vomiting. In severe cases, death
may occur.
Diagnosis
Coccidiosis is diagnosed
by performing a microscopic examination of a stool sample.
Since the cocysts are much smaller than the eggs of intestinal
worms, a very careful study must be made.
Treatment
The most common drug
used to eliminate Coccidia is a sulfa-type antibiotic. It
is given for 10-14 days. Other drugs are also used
if diarrhea and Dehydration occur. If the sulfa-type drug
is not Effective, others are available.
Reinfection of
dogs is common so Environmental disinfection is important.
The use of chlorine bleach, one cup in a gallon of water,
(500 ml in 4 Liters), is effective if the surfaces and premises
can be safely treated with it.
Coccidial
Parasites Of Dogs Infectious To Humans?
The most common Coccidia
found in dogs do not have any affect on humans.
