- Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.
Coccidia are tiny parasites that can infect a cat’s intestines. An infection with this parasite can spread when cats ingest coccidia oocytes (egg-like forms) from contaminated environments, like litter boxes, soil, and other animals’ feces.
Coccidiosis, or coccidia infections, are relatively common in cats, says Dr. Kathryn Dench, MA, VetMB, Chief Scientific Advisor at Paw Origins. “In my clinical experience, approximately 10-20% of cat fecal samples reveal coccidia,” she says.
One species of coccidia—Toxoplasma gondii—is particularly well-known because it can infect people too: It causes the disease toxoplasmosis. But some other species are specific to cats.
Healthy adult cats don’t always show signs of infection, and they may recover without treatment. If your cat does have symptoms, they’ll need medical attention.
Here’s everything you need to know about coccidia in cats, including symptoms, treatment, and how to reduce your cat’s risk of infection.
Symptoms of Coccidia In Cats
Coccidia infections can have a number of signs, according to Dr. Alex Blutinger, VMD, DACVECC, Medical Director of the Veterinary Emergency Group in Greenwich.
Symptoms you may notice in your cat include:
- Diarrhea, which may be watery or contain blood or mucus
- Vomiting
- Dehydration
- Weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- Abdominal pain
Coccidia infections can occur in cats of any breed, but Dr. Blutinger says it more commonly affects:
- Kittens: A kitten’s immature immune system leaves them more susceptible to infections. Kittens may become infected through exposure to an infected mother cat’s feces.
- Older cats: Senior cats may have compromised immune systems due to medical conditions or certain medications.
- Outdoor cats: Cats who live outside have a greater chance of coming into contact with contaminated environments or infected wildlife.
- Cats in crowded environments: Cats living in shelters, catteries, and multi-cat households are more likely to come into contact with coccidia and other parasites.
Treatments For Coccidia
Once diagnosed, coccidia infections are relatively easy to treat.
Dr. Sam Varon, DVM, owner of Broadway Pet Hospital, recommends pet parents speak to their vet if they notice any of the symptoms listed above.
He says the primary treatment for coccidia involves:
- Antiprotozoal medications including sulfadimethoxine (Albon) or ponazuril
- Supportive care to ensure your cat stays hydrated and well-nourished
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Do home remedies work?
If you’re concerned your cat does have coccidia, it’s important to seek treatment from your vet right away.
“Home remedies are not recommended for treating coccidia,” Dr. Varon says. “Professional veterinary care is crucial, since severe infections can lead to serious dehydration and nutritional deficiencies.”
While most cases of coccidia aren’t urgent, Dr. Varon says your cat will need emergency care if they are:
- Severely dehydrated
- Unable to keep food or water down
- Vomiting continuously
- Extremely lethargic or unresponsive
- Showing signs of severe pain or distress
Some cats may have no symptoms with a coccidia infection, and they may recover without treatment, Dr. Blutinger says. They may experience some distress, however.
If you notice any unusual symptoms or have any concerns about your cat’s health, your vet can offer more guidance.
Can Coccidia Spread To People Or Other Pets?
“While coccidia species are typically host-specific, certain types can infect multiple species,” Dr. Dench explains.
The common coccidia species, Isospora felis and Isospora rivolta, only infect cats. Two less common species, Toxoplasma gondii and Cryptosporidium parvum are zoonotic, meaning they can also infect humans.
“Toxoplasma is especially concerning for pregnant women,” Dr. Blutinger says. “But most human cases of toxoplasmosis stem from eating contaminated meat rather than contact with cat feces,” he adds. The zoonotic species of coccidia are also a potential health risk for immunocompromised people, people on immune suppressant drugs, people with cancer, and older adults.
To minimize the spread of coccidia to other pets or people, Dr. Dench recommends isolating infected cats and keeping them in a separate, easily cleanable area that you disinfect regularly.
Your vet can test your cat’s feces or blood to determine when the infection has cleared up. Even though human infection with cat coccidia is rare, it’s important to practice good hygiene when caring for sick cats:
- Wash your hands after handling cats, their litter box, or anything else they’ve come in contact with.
- Clean and disinfect your cat’s living area.
- Clean your cat’s litter box regularly.
How To Prevent Coccidia In Pets
Coccidia is common in many different environments. To protect your cat as much as possible, Dr. Varon recommends:
- Maintaining a clean living environment
- Regularly cleaning your cat’s litter tray and living spaces
- Discouraging hunting and scavenging, since cats can catch coccidia if they eat infected prey
- Regular vet check-ups, including fecal exams to detect and treat any infections
- Quarantining new cats until they’ve had the all-clear from your vet
- Avoiding overcrowded living conditions
Getting pet insurance and keeping it up-to-date can also help cover the costs of any treatment your cat may need for coccidia.
