Giardia in Cats: Causes, Treatments and Prevention Tips

Giardia is a parasite that lives in your cat's intestines and can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration. It's also known as "beaver fever" because it's commonly found in beavers (and their feces).

 

The good news is that there are ways to prevent your cat from contracting Giardia, and treatments are available if it does happen.

 

This article will discuss the causes, treatment options, and prevention tips for Giardia in cats.

 

Causes

Giardia is a parasite that causes severe diarrhea and vomiting in cats, and it can also cause dehydration, which can be fatal if not corrected quickly. Giardia is spread through the feces of infected animals and is passed promptly to other pets and humans.

 

Giardia is most common in kittens and young cats, but it can affect any cat at any age. The prevalence of giardia in the U.S. as determined by a national survey, was 4% in 2020. This indicates that giardia is not a very common parasite. However, it's still important to be aware of the symptoms and take your cat to the vet if you suspect he has been infected with Giardia.

Treatment

When treating our cats, we want to be sure that their health is restored as quickly and effectively as possible. This means taking them to the vet for a diagnosis and following their recommended treatment plan. 

 

Two common drugs used to treat giardia are fenbendazole and metronidazole. But again, seek professional advice before taking your cat off any medications because Giardia is a relatively rare disease that might cause many problems if it isn't treated immediately.

 

Prevention

The most common way to prevent giardia in cats is to ensure they always have access to clean water and don't use public drinking fountains or water bowls left out by other people.

 

Plus, training your cat not to eat things off the ground outside is essential. If you have a cat showing symptoms of giardia, it's necessary to get them to the vet immediately. The sooner your cat receives treatment, the better its chance of recovering quickly.

 

 

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We're not just another vet clinic—we're a place where families come together to learn how to love their pets better. 

 

At Culebra Creek Veterinary Hospital and Resort, we know that caring for your pet is more than just taking them in when they're sick or injured. It's about providing them with the best possible environment so they can thrive. That's why we offer boarding services so you can enjoy time away from home without worrying about your pet's safety and comfort.

 

If you have any questions or concerns about anything related to our practice or services, please don't hesitate to contact us!