Coccidia in dogs is an intestinal parasite that causes severe digestive issues, especially in puppies. These parasites are microscopic, single-celled organisms that cause a disease called canine coccidiosis.
Unlike usual parasitic worms in the dog’s intestines, coccidia cannot be seen with the naked eye. They reproduce within the dog’s intestines and produce their tiny eggs, called oocysts, in the feces. This then contaminates the environment.
How Do Dogs Get Coccidia?
The parasite spreads through the fecal-oral route. It’s even more common in crowded areas where dogs are congested. Their eggs can survive for long periods of time in the environment. This makes dogs in shelters, dog parks, and kennels carry an increased risk.
Common spaces and shared items such as food bowls, towels, or bedding can make it easier for the coccidia oocysts to spread between dogs.
Coccidia in puppies is an even more concerning issue, as the parasite is much more dangerous in dogs with underdeveloped immune systems.
Additionally, dogs that are malnourished, stressed, recovering from illness, or suffering from a chronic health issue will have weaker immune systems. This makes them more susceptible to canine coccidiosis as they are unable to effectively fend off coccidia.
What Are the Symptoms of Coccidia in Dogs?
Canine coccidia infections usually present mild symptoms at first. But this can quickly progress to more serious ones, especially in younger dogs and those with weaker immune systems. Common signs of coccidia in dogs include:
Watery or Mucus-Filled Diarrhea. Loose stools in dogs that may contain mucus or blood are the usual symptoms of coccidia infection. This results from irritation of the intestinal lining.
Reduced Appetite. Dogs infected with this parasite often have a decreased appetite, most likely through the discomfort and nausea experienced.
Mild Dehydration. Mild dehydration is to be expected, which can be seen as dry gums and loss of skin elasticity.
Lethargy. A drop in energy or a lack of interest in playtime is a typical sign of discomfort.
Severe symptoms of canine coccidiosis include:
Persistent Diarrhea. Diarrhea that lasts for a few days, presenting large-volume stools, is often a concern for more severe dehydration.
Vomiting. Coupled with diarrhea, vomiting can quickly worsen hydration levels and electrolyte imbalances.
Significant Weight Loss. Due to constant diarrhea, vomiting, and reduced appetite, the disease results in significant weight loss.
Weakness. Severe dehydration and discomfort may leave dogs too weak to get up, stand, or walk.
Death. In severe cases, especially those affecting puppies and dogs with weakened immune systems, coccidia can result in death.
How Do Vets Test for Coccidia in Dogs?
If your dog shows any of the symptoms, then it’s important to have them checked. Since the symptoms often mimic other health issues, a lot of tests will be needed to rule out other conditions. In the case of this parasite, the coccidia test for dogs involves a fecal examination.
But first, we often start with a complete physical exam to get to know your dog’s hydration levels, symptoms, and overall health. Your input will be important here as well.
Next, we can proceed to do the fecal examination. Usually, our vets do a fecal flotation test. It involves mixing a fecal sample with a specific solution that allows the oocysts to float up. These are collected and examined under a microscope.
Another method is the direct smear. Here, our vets directly examine a sample of feces to identify any oocysts. For cases where the dog has low parasite numbers, we may use a centrifugal flotation test.
This test works by mixing a small amount of fecal matter with a special solution and spinning it in a centrifuge. The oocysts will then float up, and our vets will examine them under the microscope.
Along the process, blood tests will be done to assess your dog’s overall health.
What Is the Coccidia Treatment in Dogs?
Treating and eliminating coccidiosis involves medications and supportive care methods. Because the parasite is internal, we usually prescribe medications that stop the reproduction of parasites and eliminate them completely. This includes sulfadimethoxine and ponazuril.
The use of antiparasitic drugs often takes anywhere from 5 days to 3 weeks. This depends on the severity of the infection. It’s essential to finish the full course of medication to ensure complete recovery.
Dogs with dehydration will be given fluids to help bring back hydration levels. In severe cases, they will be given intravenously for faster recovery.
Home Care and Recovery for Canine Coccidiosis
Helping your dog doesn’t end with medication. Effective home care helps your dog recover and stops the parasite from spreading.
Clean Your Home
The parasite’s oocysts are hardy and can easily survive in the environment for weeks. This poses a risk to your dog’s recovery. Make sure to clean the feces in your house promptly. Wash bedding, bowls, and towels with hot water and soap.
Provide a Bland Diet
Bland diets and probiotics for dogs will be recommended during recovery. Boiled chicken and white rice are often the recommended options to help your dog’s digestive tract recover while still providing enough nutrition. However, it shouldn’t be a permanent meal.
Keep an Eye on Your Dog
Make sure to watch your dog closely and keep a close eye on its appetite, energy level, and stool consistency. If you notice anything, then be sure to contact us. These observations will be helpful during regular follow-up appointments.
Vet Tips: How to Prevent Coccidia in Dogs
The best way to protect your dog from coccidia is to make sure its home is clean. Any feces in your yard or house should be cleaned up immediately. If you want to have your dog stay in a boarding facility or dog park, make sure the place is well-maintained and has good reviews.
Also, be sure to schedule regular health checkups so we can make sure your dog is free from this parasite.
“With your care, your dog can bounce back and be happier than ever.”
- Dr. Mafalda Sardinha
Final Thoughts
Coccidia in dogs is a dangerous parasite, but it can be prevented. By knowing how it spreads and what the signs are, you’ll be better informed on the things you have to do to keep your dog safe from it. Through a quick read, you can protect your dog for years to come.
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