In the U.S., giardiasis is the most common intestinal parasitic disease among humans, reports the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). But did you know that giardia can also wreak havoc on the intestines of your beloved cat?
Though sometimes confused with intestinal worms, giardia is actually a type of parasite called a protozoan that invades the gastrointestinal tract. Though the parasite can cause severe diarrhea, giardia in cats treatment is typically very effective and carries a great prognosis.
How Do Cats Get Giardia?
There is little research about how giardia causes disease in cats, so much of the information that veterinarians have is based on studies of giardia in humans. It is believed that cats become infected with giardia when they swallow the organism in its immature state. Once inside the cat's intestine, the organism matures into a cyst. Eventually, the cat passes more infected cysts in their stool. If other cats come in contact with the stool, they can get infected. Cats may also ingest giardia in contaminated drinking water, outdoor puddles, or ponds.
Symptoms of Giardiasis
Many cats who become infected with giardia are asymptomatic, meaning they don't show any signs of illness. Kittens, old cats and cats who are stressed, have a weakened immune system or are housed in close quarters are most likely to show signs of clinical illness. These signs can include severe, watery diarrhea and weight loss. Giardiasis can be fatal if left untreated.
How Is Giardiasis Diagnosed?
Giardia in cats can be detected through a microscopic examination of their stool for ova and parasites. Occasionally, the parasites may be seen on a direct smear of the feces. If giardia is suspected, your vet can test your cat's blood or feces for specific antigens of giardia. These tests are more accurate than the stool exam but take longer, as the sample usually needs to be sent to an outside laboratory.
What is the treatment for Giardia?
In the U.S., no drug is officially approved for the treatment of giardia in cats. However, the typical cat giardia treatment is metronidazole, an antibiotic, which cats usually need to take for five to seven days. Your vet may also suggest another similar medication, like albendazole or fenbendazole.
Tasty Tips
Eliminating Giardia
If your cat is diagnosed with giardiasis, environmental disinfection is key to preventing them from getting reinfected and from infecting you, says the CDC. First, remove your kitty from any potentially contaminated areas. To clean the space, use a diluted chlorine bleach solution of one cup of bleach in a gallon of water. Alternatively, you can steam or chemically clean with a disinfectant containing quaternary ammonium. Giardia cysts easily die in dry conditions, so keep the area as dry as possible for several days.
Your cat's coat may also be carrying giardia. The best way to remove the organisms from their coat is by bathing them with a pet shampoo and thoroughly rinsing. After this initial bath to remove organic material, you should bathe them again with a quaternary ammonium disinfectant. Limit application to three to five minutes, as prolonged contact with this chemical can irritate a cat's skin and mucous membranes. After bathing them, paying close attention to the anal region, thoroughly rinse off the solution. Because bathing cats is rarely an easy task, you might wish to have your vet do this. If your cat is too stressed, gentle sedation can be administered by your veterinarian.
Vaccination and Prevention
To date, no drug has been shown to convincingly prevent cats from giardiasis. While there is a reported giardia vaccine available, there isn't enough evidence to determine its efficacy. While one study showed that young kittens who received the vaccine were immune to infection six to 12 months later, the vaccine has been shown to lead to local reactions. Other studies suggest that the vaccine may not be successful in cats who are already infected and may fail to prevent reinfection.
The best prevention remains environmental control, which includes decontaminating potentially infected areas of your home and ensuring there are no giardia organisms on your cat's coat. Additionally, the best line of defense is understanding your cat's normal behavior and health. Any signs that it is changing, you should contact your veterinarian to get their expert opinion.
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Chicken & Vegetable Stew Cat Food
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Cuisine Roasted Chicken & Rice Medley Cat Food
Delicious roasted chicken and rice in a mouthwatering sauce
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Tender Chicken Dinner Cat Food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Indoor Chicken Recipe Cat Food
Supports energy level and beautiful fur in mature indoor cats
Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Cuisine Seared Tuna & Carrot Medley Cat Food
Delicious seared tuna paired with tender carrots in a mouthwatering sauce
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Chicken Recipe
Supports the developmental needs of kittens to help start life with healthy growth and a strong immune system.ain, eye & immune system development
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Perfect Digestion Chicken, Barley & Whole Oats Recipe Cat Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome for cats age 7+
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Savory Chicken Entrée Cat Food
Delicious taste of gourmet chicken in precisely balanced nutrition. Provide a synergistic ingredient blend to help support energy & activity level.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Cat Food
Highly digestible food that is gentle on the stomach. Nourishes skin & promotes lustrous fur.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Savory Entrée Can Variety Pack Cat Food
Hill's Science Diet Adult 11+ Healthy Cuisine Seared Tuna & Carrot Medley Cat Food
Delicious seared tuna paired with tender carrots in a mouthwatering sauce
Hill's Science Diet Adult Tender Tuna Dinner Cat Food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Roasted Vegetable & Chicken Medley cat food
Over 70% of cats lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Pollock & Barley Cat Food
Highly digestible food that is gentle on the stomach. Nourishes skin & promotes lustrous fur.
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Indoor Chicken Recipe
Healthy digestion for easy litter box clean-up
Hill's Science Diet Adult Indoor Ocean Fish Entrée Cat Food
Precisely balanced nutrition for indoor cats with the delicious taste of savory minced seafood
Hill's Science Diet Adult No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice cat food
Supports healthy immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful fur
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Tender Chicken Dinner
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Kitten No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Supports healthy brain, eye & immune system development
Hill's Science Diet Adult Salmon & Brown Rice Recipe Cat Food
Supports lean muscle and beautiful fur for adult cats
Related articles
Is Your Cat Hiding Their Pain? Recognizing the Signs & Symptoms.
Cats can often mask their pain or discomfort depending on the ailment. It is important to spot the signs early and consult your vet. Learn more here.
Do Cats Like Music?
Have you ever wondered if cat's like music? And if so, what kind? Check out this article that digs into the science behind your cat's taste in music.
Hyperthyroidism in Cats: Warning Signs, Management & Treatment
Learn how to spot the warning signs and symptoms of hyperthyroidism in your cats. Read more to know what questions to ask your vet.
Recognizing Cat Obesity, Causes and Signs
Feline obesity puts cats at higher risk of several health concerns. Here's how to tell if you have an overweight cat so you can intervene early.
Can Cats Get Asthma?
Could your cat's wheezing & breathing issues be an asthma attack, or is it just a hairball? Learn to recognize signs of asthma and what you should do.
Why Do Cats Stick Their Tongue Out?
They look super cute when doing it, but why do cats stick their tongue out? Read on to find out what it means!
Liver Disease in Cats: Background, Symptoms & Treatment
Learn about feline liver disease, one of the most common problems affecting a cat's internal organs, including symptoms & treatments for this condition.
Why Does My Cat Attack My Feet?
Inquiring cat parents want to know: Why do cats attack feet? Why do cats like feet so much? Find out why your furry friend is nipping at your toes.
Do Cats Understand Mirrors?
Do cats understand mirrors? Find out what science can to tell us and how cats perceive their own reflections.
Subtle Signs that Your Cat is Aging
Health-related issues in cat become more common as they age. Here are 6 senior feline health concerns you need to know about.
Helping a Cat with Sensitive Skin
Discover how to identify cat sensitive skin and what you can do to help your cat thrive from head to paw.
How to Care for Cat Paw Pads
Learn why it's important to keep your cat's paw pads clean and healthy, including household items you can use to keep her paws moisturized.
Diabetes in Cats: Causes, Signs & Treatments
Know the causes of diabetes in felines to better understand how to prevent it in your cat. Ask your vet for treatment options.
Cat Parents: Bringing Your New Cat Home
Discover ten ways to care for your new cat after adoption, from preparing your home before she arrives to making her feel comfortable once she's arrived.
The Most Common Poisonous Plants to Cats
Learn about common houseplants that can be dangerous or poisonous to cats. Get tips on how to keep your cat safe around houseplants.
The Tales Your Cat's Tail Tells
Your cat's tail can tell you about what's going on inside her head. Tails are good indicators of mood. Take a little time to observe your cat's behavior and you will start to get a feel of the tales the tail tell
Real Life Stories of Caring for Cats with Disabilities
Read about the journey of three cats with disabilities and how, despite their handicaps, they're just as lovable and capable as any other cat.
Cat & Kitten Swollen Belly: Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment
Learn the many causes that can give your cat or kitten a swollen belly, from organ-related issues to simple gas, how it's diagnosed and treatment options.
How to Talk to Cats (and Are They Really Listening?)
Learn tips for talking & communicating with your cat, including suggested gestures like blinking, as well as how to tell if they are actually listening.
Why Regular Veterinary Visits Are Important to Your Kitten
Ensure you are providing the best care possible for your kitten by making regular visits to the veterinary. Learn why here.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.