Here in the shelter we have had first-hand experience with this nasty
amoeba-like parasite which attacks the stomach and digestive tract of
many animals.
 
Coccidia is NOT species-specific, which means that it can be spread from
to one animal to another.  Coccidia is mostly seen in pet store ferrets
and animal shelters.  (Puppy mills and animal pounds are famous for it).
Symptoms are usually severe diarrhea with weight loss, dehydration, poor
coat, lethargy and sometimes lack of appetite.  The younger animals
affected by it will sometimes only have diarrhea, which is often
misdiaganosed as change of diet, stress or distemper.  A simple fecal
test can let you know if your pet has coccidia.  This parasite attacks
the lining of the digestive tract and does a great deal of damage to the
stomach and intestines.  ALBON is the wormer/antibiotic that vets use
to treat coccidia.  The usual treatment is ALBON given orally for 10-14
days, with a repeat fecal test to determine if the parasite is no longer
present.
 
Coccidia is a difficult, sturdy parasite that actually is not killed by
ALBON, but instead it is only stunned so that the animal can pass the
parasite when it poops.  It can be spread by contact - which can then be
passed to another pet if they share the same litter box.  It is
transmitted by feces.  If you have an infected pet, the animal should not
come in contact with other pets, as grooming (licking) and direct contact
can spread it.  BLEACH is the best disinfectant to use for coccidia.
Litter boxes should be cleaned frequently and wiped out with a bleach
solution ( 1 oz bleach for 8 oz water).  Bedding, towels and other pet
bedding should be changed and washed frequently.  Cages should be wiped
with a bleach solution also.  Hands should be washed each time after
contact with the pet or the pet's bedding.  The infected pet can recover
if treated promptly and correctly.
 
Humans CANNOT "catch" coccidia, but it can be spread between ferrets,
cats, dogs and other small animals.
 
Coccidia is a pain in the butt, but not usually life-threatening (unless
left untreated, which results in dehydration and bad health).
 
Hugs and dooks,
Marlene B. /RFRL / www.rfrl.net
[Posted in FML issue 4555]