A common digestive parasite
Coccidia in dogs are microscopic intestinal parasites frequently found in puppies and dogs with weakened immune systems. Coccidia in dogs can lead to digestive issues ranging from mild to severe, especially in young or newly adopted animals.
Common symptoms to watch for
Infected dogs may show the following signs:
- Yellow or mustard-colored diarrhea, sometimes with blood
- Occasional vomiting
- Dehydration
- Lethargy or weakness
- Loss of appetite
These symptoms are most often seen in puppies between 4 and 6 weeks old or in immunocompromised dogs.
How coccidia are transmitted
Coccidia are spread when dogs ingest eggs found:
- In feces from an infected animal
- In contaminated water sources
- On dirty surfaces like bowls, floors, or toys
Life cycle of coccidia
- Eggs are shed in the feces of infected dogs
- After a few days in the environment, the eggs become infectious
- Once ingested, they release sporozoites in the intestine
- These invade intestinal cells, multiply, and destroy the host cells
- New eggs are then released in the stool, ready to restart the cycle
The complete cycle takes 9 to 11 days. Coccidia eggs can survive in the environment for up to a year in cool and moist conditions.
Diagnosing coccidia infection
Diagnosis is performed by a veterinarian using:
- Microscopic stool examination
- Identification of thick-walled, oval-shaped eggs with dark inner and clear outer layers
Treatment options
- Prescription antiparasitic medication specific to coccidia
- Supportive care (hydration, anti-diarrheals) for dogs with severe symptoms
- Recovery is generally quick when treatment is started early
How to prevent coccidia
Prevention is based on strict hygiene:
- Pick up feces promptly and dispose of them properly
- Clean and disinfect the dog’s environment regularly (bowls, bedding, crates)
- Isolate infected puppies until they are fully treated
Good hygiene and early veterinary care are key to controlling this intestinal parasite and protecting vulnerable dogs.
