Coccidia are one-celled organisms or protozoa that live in the intestinal tract of dogs and cats. Fortunately, most dogs have some immunity to coccidia, which are very contagious. However, puppies less than six months of age and older dogs that are stressed and those that have suppressed immune systems are most likely to show symptoms of coccidiosis.
Puppies are not born with coccidia protozoa in their intestines. However, they are frequently introduced to coccidia through contact with their mother’s infected feces that contain cysts of the protozoa. Dogs can also become infected by eating carriers such as mice or cockroaches.
Most coccidia that infect dogs are of the genus isospora canis and isospora ohioensis.
It takes about 13 days for a dog to develop coccidiosis following contact with coccidia in feces. Thus, puppies two weeks and older are susceptible to the coccidia protozoa.
Because coccidia are extremely contagious and can be passed from puppies to other puppies or from puppies to kittens, it is a good idea to isolate the infected animals, especially in animal shelters, kennels, breeding facilities and animal hospitals. Beware of infected dogs that run around public areas or routinely visit your local dog park.
Diarrhea, which can vary from mild to severe depending on the level of infection, is the main symptom of coccidiosis. It is possible that the feces could contain blood and mucous. Dogs that have a severe case of coccidiosis may vomit and become dehydrated. There is often a loss of appetite.
Pet owners need to take coccidia seriously because coccidiosis can result in death if not properly treated. Most dogs that die from coccidiosis are usually infected with other parasites, bacteria or viruses.
If you even remotely suspect that your dog has coccidia, schedule an appointment with the pet’s veterinarian. Take a fresh stool sample along so that the vet can test for coccidia cysts.
Since stress has a lot to do with a dog developing coccidiosis, pay close attention to any new puppy or older dog that you bring into your home. Puppies that are taken from their mothers to live in new homes are at serious risk of developing coccidiosis within two to three weeks of their departure from mom’s side. Remember that it takes about 13 days for the illness to show up after being exposed to coccidia.
Although coccidiosis can be very serious, the good news is that the disease is easily treated. Most vets will prescribe a form of sulfadimethoxine or trimethoprimsulfadiazine. Neither drug kills the coccidia. They work by preventing the coccidia from reproducing.
A dog that becomes ill with coccidiosis will take time to completely recover. Recovery takes place only after the dog’s immune system is well established. This usually takes about two weeks.
Prevention of coccidiosis is fairly simple. Clean up any feces that you find in your yard because your dog can get it directly from another animal’s stools or through transmission by fleas, ticks, flies and cockroaches. Take a stand against insect and rodents that may be attracted to your yard.
Make sure Rover’s water dish is kept clean. It is best if you keep other dogs from drinking from your pet’s dish.
Few disinfectants work to kill coccidia. Boiling water or ammonia can be used to clean items that the dog uses.
Don’t expect cold weather to solve the problem of coccidia. The protozoa can withstand freezing temperatures.
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