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Zoonotic Diseases

  • Cryptosporidium is a species of single-celled parasite that can infect your dog through the gastrointestinal tract. Clinical signs such as diarrhea and weight loss may only be seen in immunosuppressed patients, including puppies. These patients may need supportive care and other treatment to control disease. Certain Cryptosporidium species can be spread between pets and humans, making this parasite zoonotic.

  • Diarrhea is a symptom of an underlying problem that may be minor or very serious. Some cases may resolve on their own or with minimal treatment, while other cases require in-depth diagnostic testing and more aggressive treatment to address the underlying condition. The possible causes, diagnostic tests, and treatment protocols for diarrhea in cats are numerous and they are explained in this handout.

  • Echinococcosis refers to being infected with a tapeworm of the genus Echinococcus and is primarily a parasite of coyotes and foxes. Infected cats are usually asymptomatic, but in both cats and humans the parasite can cause large cysts to form within the lungs and liver. E.multilocularis is treated with praziquantel and in most cases the prognosis is good.

  • Echinococcosis refers to being infected with a tapeworm of the genus Echinococcus and is primarily a parasite of coyotes and foxes. Infected dogs are usually asymptomatic, but in both dogs and humans the parasite can cause large cysts to form within the lungs and liver. E.multilocularis is treated with praziquantel and in most cases the prognosis is good.

  • Giardia is a microscopic, parasitic organism that causes an intestinal infection in humans and animals called giardiasis. It is relatively rare in healthy adult cats and more commonly seen in kittens and debilitated adult cats, often occurring in densely populated groups such as catteries or animal shelters. Infected cats may have no signs.

  • Giardia is a microscopic, parasitic organism that causes an intestinal infection in humans and animals called giardiasis. Giardiasis can be an important cause of diarrhea in animals, but many infected dogs never develop any signs of illness.

  • Feline viral rhinotracheitis (FVR) is an infectious disease caused by feline herpesvirus type-1. It is a major cause of upper respiratory disease in cats and is the most common cause of conjunctivitis. (inflammation of the tissues surrounding the eye, especially the lining of the lids and the third eyelid).

  • Hookworm is a parasitic infection of the gastrointestinal tract. The parasites have hook-like mouthparts they use to anchor themselves to the lining of the intestinal wall. This handout outlines clinical signs, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

  • Hookworm is a parasitic infection of the gastrointestinal tract. The parasites have hook-like mouthparts they use to anchor themselves to the lining of the intestinal wall. This handout outlines clinical signs, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

  • Vaccinations are important to prevent serious illness in cats. Even cats that spend all their time indoors should be vaccinated. Some viruses can be carried into your home on inanimate objects such as shoes and clothing. Your veterinarian can help you determine what vaccinations your cat needs to be protected.