Protecting our cats from diseases means taking note of the potential parasites that they might come across. One of these is Giardia.
Giardia is a tiny parasite that causes a lot of problems in your cat’s digestive system. It’s one of the most common intestinal parasites found in cats, affecting both indoor and outdoor cats alike.
In this blog, we’re going to talk about everything you need to know about Giardia in cats, from what it is to how it’s treated and prevented.
What Is Giardia in Cats?
Giardia is a microscopic, single-celled protozoan parasite that attacks a cat’s intestinal lining, causing giardiasis. As a result, this can cause several gastrointestinal problems and symptoms, all of which require prompt treatment and attention.
When Giardia enters your cat’s system, it attaches to the lining of the intestines, where it disrupts the normal absorption of nutrients. This disruption leads to the symptoms commonly associated with giardiasis, such as diarrhea and weight loss.
While the condition is more common in vulnerable cats, such as kittens, older cats, and cats with health issues, any cat can become infected.
Causes of Giardia in Cats
Now that we know what Giardia is, let’s talk about how it spreads.
Direct Ingestion
Cats can get Giardia through ingestion, meaning the parasite is transmitted when they ingest it from objects contaminated with infected feces. This can be anywhere from contaminated soil, water, and food.
One of the primary sources of a Giardia infection in cats is contaminated water. If your cat drinks from puddles, streams, or other bodies of water that have been exposed to infected feces, they can ingest the cysts.
These sources of water are most likely found outdoors and in your yards and gardens, or if their water bowls haven’t been cleaned for a long time.
Contaminated Objects and Surfaces
Additionally, cats can also get Giardia through the fecal-oral route. This happens when they directly touch the contaminated feces with their bodies and then groom themselves.
The cysts of Giardia can survive on surfaces like bedding, food bowls, or even your hands if you’ve been in contact with contaminated material. This means that even indoor cats can be at risk if their living environment is not properly sanitized.
Nursing
Mother cats can also transmit the parasite during nursing. This happens when kittens drink the milk of an infected mother cat or make contact with her contaminated coat.
What Are the Symptoms of Giardia in Cats?
Giardia can trigger a whole range of symptoms, although not every cat may show any sign at all. Here are some of the most common signs of Giardia in cats:
Diarrhea. Diarrhea is often the first and most noticeable symptom of Giardia in cats. Their stool may be soft, watery, or contain mucus and blood. Prolonged diarrhea can disrupt your cat’s daily activity and is a sign for veterinary action.
Weight Loss. Giardia interferes with nutrient absorption, which prevents our cats from getting the nutrition they need to get better and stronger. Infected cats may lose weight even with a normal appetite.
Lethargy. Cats infected with Giardia may become less active and seem more tired than usual. They might prefer to lie down most of the time, reducing their desire for physical activity and playtime.
Abdominal Discomfort. Another common sign of Giardia in cats is when they appear noticeably stressed and uncomfortable. Some cats can vocalize while others can hide and withdraw from their owners.
Vomiting. While less common, some cats may vomit as a result of the irritation caused by Giardia in the digestive tract. Vomiting, combined with diarrhea, can lead to dehydration. When these two symptoms arise, it’s important to seek emergency vet care.
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