Giardia in Cats

Giardia in Cats

One of the microscopic parasites that can affect cats is called giardia. This parasite is contagious, and it causes the disease called giardiasis. This parasite is typically found on contaminated areas, including water, food or soils that contain contaminated fecal matter from infected animals or humans.

When cats ingest the infectious or contaminated substances in an infected animal’s poop, then the giardia cysts enter their body. Giardiasis is, therefore, transmitted primarily transmitted between hosts through ingestion.

Symptoms of Giardia Infection

A cat may have the giardia parasite in their body without becoming sick. The cat may carry and transmit these cysts to other cats and never show any clinical symptoms. While cat giardiasis is quite low in most parts of North America, it is a severe issue in shelters, catteries, and individual homes with several cats.

Some of the indications of giardiasis are related to gastrointestinal issues, and they include:

•    Mucus in feces

•    Vomiting 

•    Nausea

•    Diarrhea

•    Excess gas

•    Weight loss

Diagnosing Giardia

Regularly checking the litterbox is critical in identifying giardia early on. If you see the symptoms shown above, take your cat quickly to your veterinarian. 

Your vet will first observe the contents of your cat’s poop or diarrhea. Giardia cysts can be easily viewed using a microscope. Another SNAP test may be used to confirm the diagnosis. 

Treating Giardia

Giardia doesn’t have any approved medications currently. Nevertheless, your vet will treat the symptoms, which will minimize pain and discomfort for your cat. It is challenging to clear pets of an infection, but consult your vet about the best steps to guarantee better health for your cat.

Preventing Giardia

If your cat encounters contaminated giardia cysts within your environment, use solutions made with quaternary ammonium to fight the parasites. Remember that infective cysts may even stick onto the cat’s coat. Hence, regularly shampoos and proper rinsing will be beneficial, especially around the cat’s perianal area. 

As giardia doesn’t have a preventative vaccine yet, the best prevention measure is to avoid exposure to that parasite. You must keep your cats indoors and far away from places that are contaminated by poop of various other animals.

Like with other microscopic parasites that affect the gastrointestinal system, effective prevention of giardia will rely on quickly treating any cats that show symptoms. Also, use proper sanitary procedures to kill or minimize these parasites in the cat’s immediate surroundings. Consult or visit your vet for additional help with managing giardia. 

References: Pet Health Network, Petmd, VCA Hospitals