Coccidia in Cats: Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention

Coccidia lives in the intestines of kittens and cats. These tiny parasites are found in cats and other mammals in a variety of species, some of which are contagious to humans. The good news is that healthy adult cats rarely get coccidia, and most cats can recover from coccidia infections without treatment. Continue reading to learn more about coccidia in cats, as well as signs that your cat may be infected with these parasites.

Coccidia in Cats: What Is It?

Coccidia is parasites that live in cats' and other mammals' gastrointestinal tracts. There are several types of coccidia parasites, and cats can harbor several of them. Isospora felis and Isospora rivolta, intestinal parasites that only infect cats, and Cryptosporidium parvum and Toxoplasma gondii, two coccidia species that are both zoonotic, or contagious to humans, are examples of common types.

Coccidia are spread in the same way, regardless of species: through accidental ingestion of sporulated oocysts, the infectious life stage of coccidia parasites. Oocysts can be found in the feces of infected cats, as well as in food or water contaminated with feces. Toxoplasma can also be transmitted through raw meat infected with parasitic cysts; therefore, cats who hunt or eat raw meat are more likely to develop coccidia.

Coccidia Symptoms in Cats

The symptoms of a coccidia infection differ depending on the species of coccidia as well as the cat's age and health. Because kittens have a weaker immune system than adult cats, coccidia in kittens usually causes more clinical signs than coccidia in healthy adult cats. Adult cats, on the other hand, may show no symptoms — the cat may appear and act perfectly healthy and be able to overcome the infection without treatment. Cats with other underlying health issues are more likely to develop coccidia.

Watery or mucusy diarrhea, sometimes streaked with blood, is a sign of coccidia in kittens. In kittens, a severe coccidia infection can cause weakness. Signs of a possible Toxoplasma infection in a cat may include none at all, or the cat may exhibit signs such as:

• Excessive sleepiness or tiredness

• Loss of weight

• Fever

• Squinting or excessive eye discharge

• Breathing difficulties

• Diarrhea

• Vomiting

• Loss of equilibrium

• Seizures

• Weakness

Another consideration is that pregnant cats infected with Toxoplasma may give birth to stillborn kittens. Male cats, on the other hand, appear to be more susceptible to Toxoplasma than female cats.

Coccidia Diagnosis in Cats

If you suspect your cat has a coccidia infection, schedule an appointment with your local veterinarian. Bring a fresh sample of feces with you when you take your cat to the vet. Coccidia is typically diagnosed through a combination of your history, a physical exam of your cat, and a microscopic fecal examination.

Because many cats can be infected without showing clinical signs, it's critical to have your cat's feces tested at least once a year to ensure that your cat isn't unknowingly harboring and spreading the parasite. The good news for toxoplasmosis is that cats only shed this parasite for about 7 days after being exposed for the first time. Although repeated exposure may cause your cat to become ill, it is unlikely that they will expose other pets or people in your home to the parasite.

If your cat is visibly ill, or if the vet suspects a Toxoplasma infection or another disease, the vet may order additional tests to assess how your cat's internal organs are functioning and rule out other diseases. They may also perform blood tests to look for antibodies against the toxoplasma parasite to see if they've ever been exposed or have an active infection.

Treatment Alternatives

Most coccidial infections, thankfully, resolve on their own. Coccidia, on the other hand, can be easily treated if necessary. Sulfadimethoxine is frequently prescribed for Isospora infections, and affected cats are treated until their fecal parasite tests come back negative. Antibiotics such as tylosin or paromomycin can be used to treat cryptosporidium in cats. Ponazuril, another type of medication, may also be prescribed. In any case, your veterinarian will know the best medication to give your cat.

Toxoplasma infections are more likely to require treatment, especially if your cat is displaying symptoms of illness, and are typically treated with a two-week course of an antibiotic called clindamycin. Clindamycin can cause adverse reactions in some cats, such as loss of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea. If you experience any side effects, contact your veterinarian. Otherwise, even if your cat appears to be feeling better, continue to administer all medications as directed.

If your cat is extremely ill or dehydrated, your veterinarian may advise you to rehydrate him with subcutaneous or intravenous fluids.

Alternatives for Prevention

Coccidial parasites can be found in almost any environment. Fortunately, most healthy adult cats' immune systems are capable of combating coccidia. Keeping cats indoors and having their feces tested for parasites on a yearly basis is an effective way to reduce your and your cat's exposure to internal parasites.

Toxoplasma is most dangerous to pregnant women because the parasite can cause potentially fatal birth defects in human babies. If you're pregnant and have cats, have someone else clean the litter box, avoid handling cat feces, and wash your hands after petting or playing with them.

To assess your risk, you can also consult your doctor about being tested for Toxoplasma antibodies or consult your veterinarian about having your cat tested for antibodies.

Remember that the most common form of coccidia in cats, Isospora felis, is not contagious to humans or dogs, and most adult cats recover without treatment. If you have a kitten, your cat is acting sick, or you are concerned in any way, never hesitate to seek assistance from your local veterinarian.

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