What It Is:
Coccidia are microscopic intestinal parasites that infect the lining of a cat’s intestines, causing irritation, digestive upset, and in some cases, severe diarrhea. The condition caused by coccidia is called coccidiosis. While coccidia infections are most common in kittens, they can affect cats of any age, especially those who are stressed, immunocompromised, or living in crowded environments.
Coccidia are protozoa, not worms, and cannot be seen without a microscope.
🐾 Common Symptoms
Some cats infected with coccidia show no signs at all. When symptoms do appear, they may include:
- Watery or mucous filled diarrhea
- Bloody stool in severe cases
- Dehydration
- Weight loss or failure to gain weight
- Vomiting
- Lethargy
- Poor appetite
- Rough or unkempt coat
Kittens and senior cats are more likely to develop severe illness or complications from coccidia.
🦠 Causes and Transmission
Coccidia are typically spread through the fecal oral route. This means cats become infected by ingesting oocysts, which are microscopic eggs passed in the feces of infected animals.
Common sources of infection include:
- Ingesting contaminated soil, food, water, or objects
- Contact with infected feces in litter boxes, kennels, or shared spaces
- Grooming paws or fur after contact with contaminated surfaces
- Eating infected prey or insects
Coccidia are not contagious to humans, but they can spread between cats and sometimes dogs, especially in shared environments.
🔍 Diagnosis
Coccidia cannot be seen with the naked eye. Diagnosis is made through fecal testing at a veterinary clinic.
Tests may include:
- Fecal flotation to detect oocysts under a microscope
- Centrifugal flotation or ELISA tests for increased sensitivity
- Repeat testing if symptoms persist but the first test is negative
Because symptoms overlap with other intestinal parasites or infections, a full fecal panel is often recommended.
💊 Treatment
Treatment is straightforward and usually effective when started promptly.
Common treatments include:
- Sulfa based medications such as sulfadimethoxine (Albon) to stop reproduction of coccidia
- Ponazuril, a more recent medication that may clear infection faster
- Supportive care such as fluids or anti diarrheal medications if needed
- Hygiene measures to prevent reinfection
- Disinfection of the environment, as oocysts can survive in the environment for long periods
Most cats begin to feel better within a few days of starting treatment, though the full course should always be completed.
🩺 Prognosis
With proper treatment, prognosis is excellent. However:
- Kittens or immunocompromised cats may need additional support
- Untreated coccidiosis can cause dehydration, malnutrition, and secondary infections
- Reinfection is possible without thorough cleaning of the environment
Prompt veterinary care prevents most complications.
💡 Cat Owner Note
Coccidia may be invisible, but the mess it leaves behind is hard to miss. If your kitten has diarrhea that just will not go away, this little parasite may be the reason. Fortunately, with a quick trip to the vet and some simple meds, most cats bounce back in no time.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Coccidia in Cats
Can coccidia go away on its own?
Sometimes in adult cats, but treatment is strongly recommended, especially for kittens or symptomatic cats.
How do I prevent my cat from getting coccidia?
Keep litter boxes clean, remove feces promptly, avoid overcrowding, and disinfect regularly. Limit exposure to stray or outdoor animals.
Can humans catch coccidia from cats?
No. The species of coccidia that infect cats do not infect humans. However, always wash hands after handling litter or sick animals.
Is coccidia the same as worms?
No. Coccidia are single celled protozoa, not intestinal worms, and require different medications.
Can indoor cats get coccidia?
Yes. They can be exposed through contaminated shoes, hands, other animals, or litter boxes.
How long does treatment take?
Most cats are treated for five to ten days, depending on the medication used and the severity of the infection.