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Overview:
Cryptosporidiosis is
coccidian
protozoan caused by
microscopic, single celled
parasites of the
genus Cryptosporidium.
Cryptosporidiosis is a cause of diarrhea in cats
and cats become infected by ingesting the oocysts. These are shed in the feces &
begin 5 days after infection & continues for 2-3 weeks. [1] Cryptosporidium
(along with Giardia) are both well known as they are common causes of waterborne
disease. That is, they can spread from host to host in water.
What
are the symptoms of cryptosporidiosis in cats?
Some cats may show
no symptoms at all, immunocompromised cats may have longer lasting & more severe
symptoms & may die.
How do cats
become infected with cryptosporidium?
Nonsporulated (non-infective)
oocysts are passed in the feces. Once they are on the outside, they
mature. Once the oocyst matures (which depends on environmental conditions),
they become infective (sporulated oocyst). These are then accidentally
swallowed, and infection begins.
Each oocyst contains 4
sporozoites in each of 2 sporocysts. The "zoites" invade the intestinal cells
and develop to the schizont stage. The schizonts release more zoites which
invade new cells and give rise to the next generation of schizonts. There are 3
generations of schizonts. Zoites released from the last generation of schizonts
invade cells and form gametocytes. The male gametocyte releases gametes which
fuse with the female gametocytes and form oocysts.
Damage to the intestinal cells
leads to diarrhoea.
How
is cryptosporidiosis diagnosed?
Routine fecal examinations can
detect the condition. A negative result is not a definite indication that your
cat doesn't have coccidioses, and it may be necessary to perform repeat fecal
examinations.
How
is cryptosporidiosis treated?
There are no
effective medications to treat cryptosporidiosis in cats. A cat with a healthy
immune system will rid themselves of the parasite in time.
Supportive care may
be needed required.
Can
I catch cryptosporidiosis from my cat?
Yes you can. As with
cats, a healthy immune system usually fights off the disease relatively quickly,
however it can have devastating effects on the immunocompromised.
References:
[1] Niels Pederson -
Feline Husbandry; Diseases & Management of the Multiple Cat Household.
Please note:
The medical
articles on this site have not been written by a veterinarian &
should not be considered a replacement for a veterinarian visit.
The articles are provided for informative purposes only & should
not be used for
the diagnosis or treatment of any
medical condition.
Always seek
immediate veterinary advice for any problems (health or
behavioral) in your pets.
While great care
has been made in the creation of these articles, we cannot
guarantee the accuracy or omissions on these pages. If in any
doubt whatsoever, seek professional medical advice.
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