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Category: Canine,Feline
Isospora spp., Isospora canis, Isospora felis
Coccidia
AffectedAnimals:
Dogs and cats.
Overview:
Coccidiosis is an infection of microscopic parasites called coccidia that invade the intestines of dogs and cats. The most common type of coccidia in dogs is Isospora canis, while cats are most frequently affected by Isospora felis. Coccidiosis usually is not a great threat to a healthy dog or cat, but animals that are debilitated or immunocompromised can become very ill from a coccidia infection. Puppies and kittens also are much more susceptible to severe coccidiosis.
Animals that are affected by a coccidia infection may experience intestinal problems such as watery diarrhea that can be severe, vomiting and dehydration. Death may result in severe cases. However, antibiotics have been successful at decreasing the presence of the parasites and restoring the animal's health.
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