Giardia is a parasite that infects cats and dogs, leading to a disease that can cause them grave harm. Below, we’ll discuss the symptoms of Giardia infection and the treatment options available.
What Is A Giardia Parasite?
Giardia is a water-borne microscopic protozoan parasite, also called Giardia duodenalis. It’s an intestinal parasite that causes a disease known as Giardiasis in cats, dogs and humans.
What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Giardia In Pets?
Common signs and symptoms of Giardia infection in both pets and humans include:
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain and discomfort
- Gas
- Vomiting
Many people and pets who are infected with Giardia don’t show any signs or symptoms.
Pet owners, you should consult University Animal Clinic for a medical examination if you suspect that your pet is showing signs of Giardia infection.
Can Humans Contract Giardia From Pets?
Your risk of contracting Giardia infection from your cat or dog is quite small. The type of Giardia parasite which infects humans is not the same one that infects mammals like cats and dogs. However, you must also note that some rodents and other mammalian species may harbor the type of Giardia that affects humans. So, if you have exotic or household pets exhibiting giardia symptoms, you need to consult your veterinarian for a checkup.
How Does Giardia Spread?
Anything that has contact with the feces of infected animals or humans may become contaminated with a Giardia duodenalis parasite. However, animals and humans only become infected if they ingest or swallow this parasite. The parasite is not transferred through blood contact.
How Can My Cat Or Dog Become Infected With Giardia?
Your pet can become infected in any of the following ways:
- Drinking contaminated water from a pond, pool or creek
- Contacting fecal matter that’s infected with the parasite
- Eating grass that has been contaminated with the feces of an infected animal
- Playing or rolling around in contaminated soil
- Licking the body after it has contacted a contaminated litter box or cage
Puppies and kittens (young pets) have a higher risk of contracting this illness than adult pets.
How Do You Protect Yourself If Your Pet Has A Giardia Infection?
While the risk of contracting Giardia from your pet is minimal, you can take these steps to reduce your exposure to a Giardia infection:
- Disinfect places that your furry friend has frequent access to, including bedding, toys, food and water bowls.
- Put on gloves while doing gardening to minimize the risk of touching infected feces or soil.
- Follow all the rules for proper hand washing, especially when you’re working in your kitchen or when you want to eat or drink anything to avoid the risks of contracting Giardia.
How To Treat Giardia In Pets
If you observe that your pet has recurrent diarrhea, call your vet immediately. Take your pet to your vet early to prevent complications like dehydration that can occur with persistent gastrointestinal issues.
Your vet will run tests on your pet to diagnose and treat Giardia. Bear in mind that there are no over-the-counter medications that can be used to treat this condition. Only a licensed veterinarian can carry out a proper Giardia diagnosis for your pet and prescribe the appropriate treatment.
Contact University Animal Clinic To Schedule A Checkup
Call University Animal Clinic at (941) 253-5218 or schedule an appointment online to receive the highest quality vet care for your furry friend. We have effective pet wellness plans that will help you reduce the cost of keeping your pets healthy. If you suspect your pet needs Giardia treatment, we’ll provide a thorough examination as soon as possible.