coccidia in dogs

Coccidia in Dogs: Natural Treatment

If you’re a dog owner, chances are you’ve heard of parasites like worms, but have you ever heard of Coccidia? These tiny parasites can cause big problems for your pooch, especially if they’re a puppy. Don’t worry, though—this guide will help you understand what Coccidia are, how they can affect your dog, and what you can do to protect your pet.

Table of Contents

What Is Coccidia?

Coccidia are microscopic parasites that live in a dog’s intestines. They’re so small you can’t see them without a microscope, but their impact can be significant. These parasites are common in dogs, and while healthy adults might not show any signs, puppies and dogs with weaker immune systems are more likely to get poorly.

The most common type of Coccidia that affects dogs comes from a group called Isospora. Once inside your dog’s intestines, these parasites can multiply and cause a condition called Coccidiosis, which can lead to stomach upset and other issues.

What Is the Difference Between Coccidia and Giardia?

Coccidia is a similar parasite to Giardia. Severe Coccidia infection causes explosive watery diarrhoea. The difference between this and Giardia is that Coccidia can lead to long-term damage of the intestinal lining. That affects the absorption of nutrients, leads to dehydration and can even cause death if untreated.

Giardia is usually contracted when your dog drinks contaminated water or is around the poop of an infected dog. This leads to diarrhoea. Giardia doesn’t penetrate the intestinal wall, infect surrounding tissues, or enter the bloodstream.

How Do Dogs Get Coccidia?

Dogs usually pick up Coccidia from their environment. Here are some common ways your dog might get infected:

  • Eating contaminated faeces: Dogs can accidentally ingest Coccidia oocysts (a life stage of the parasite) from another dog’s poop.
  • Contact with contaminated surfaces: Coccidia can stick to places like water bowls, grass, or even your dog’s paws.
  • Eating infected animals: Small creatures like rodents or insects can carry Coccidia, and dogs can get it if they eat them.

Puppies are especially vulnerable because their immune systems aren’t fully developed, and they’re curious about everything—often putting things they shouldn't in their mouths!

What Are the Symptoms of Coccidia in Dogs?

Not all dogs with Coccidia will show symptoms, but when they do, it’s often related to digestive issues. Watch for:

  • Diarrhoea: This is the most common symptom and can sometimes be bloody or contain mucus.
  • Loss of appetite: Your dog might not want to eat as much as usual.
  • Lethargy: They might seem more tired or sluggish than normal.
  • Weight loss: Especially in puppies, Coccidiosis can cause noticeable weight loss.
  • Vomiting or dehydration: Severe cases can lead to dehydration, which is dangerous.

If your dog is showing any of these signs, it’s time to call the vet or undertake a worm count to see what is going on. Left untreated, Coccidia can be life-threatening, especially for puppies.

How Is Coccidia Diagnosed?

Coccidia is usually diagnosed by looking at your dog’s poop under a microscope to spot the oocysts. Since Coccidia don’t always shed evenly, you might need multiple samples to confirm the infection. These tests can be done at home with a Worm Count Test or via your vet who may run other tests to check why your dog may be poorly.

How Is Coccidia Treated?

The good news is that Coccidia can be treated!

Chemically: Your vet will prescribe medication to stop the parasites from multiplying. The most commonly used treatment is a sulfa-based antibiotic called sulfadimethoxine (Albon), but there are newer options like ponazuril or toltrazuril that can work faster.

Treatment usually lasts for about 1-2 weeks, but it’s important to follow your vet’s instructions and finish the medication even if your dog starts feeling better. Along with meds, your vet might recommend extra steps to manage symptoms, like giving your dog fluids to prevent dehydration.

Naturally: Grapefruit Seed Extract (GSE) can successful treat Coccidia. The dosage is 1 drop per 1kg of dog per day for 10 days. So if your dog weighs 10kg, it would be 10 drops per day on food for 10 days. We would then recommend running a Worm Count Retest to ensure the Coccidia has been eliminated.

If your dog is showing severe signs of Coccidiosis, we recommend speaking with your vet as your dog may need additional support. If your dog is asymptomatic (showing no signs) but has had a positive Coccidia test, then GSE would be a suitable and effective treatment.

Can Coccidia Spread to Humans?

Here’s some reassurance: the types of coccidia that infect dogs are typically species-specific, meaning they don’t infect humans. However, there’s a small risk if your dog is carrying a less common type like Cryptosporidium, which can affect people with weakened immune systems. Practicing good hygiene—like washing your hands after handling your dog or cleaning up after them—will minimise any risk.

How Can I Prevent Coccidia in My Dog?

Prevention is key when it comes to Coccidia. While it’s impossible to eliminate every risk, these tips can help:

  • Pick up poop promptly: Clean up your dog’s waste regularly to reduce environmental contamination.
  • Keep their environment clean: Wash bedding, food bowls, and water dishes often. If your dog has had Coccidia, disinfect their items with a diluted bleach solution or anti-bacterial spray, but be careful—bleach can damage certain surfaces.
  • Prevent hunting: If your dog likes to chase or eat small animals, try to discourage the behaviour.
  • Run regular Worm Count Tests: Puppies should have regular faecal exams to catch infections early.
  • Be mindful of group settings: If your dog goes to daycare, the park, or other places with lots of dogs, keep an eye out for cleanliness.

What Should I Do If My Dog Has Coccidia?

If your dog is diagnosed with Coccidia and is showing symptoms, don’t panic! Most dogs recover fully with proper treatment. Here’s what to do:

  • Follow your vet’s treatment plan: Give medications as directed and don’t stop early, even if your dog seems better.
  • Keep your dog hydrated: Diarrhoea can lead to dehydration, so make sure your dog has access to fresh water.
  • Isolate them temporarily: If you have multiple dogs, keep the infected dog separate until they’re better to prevent the spread.
  • Sanitise their environment: Clean their living area thoroughly to kill any lingering oocysts.

Will My Dog Recover from Coccidia?

Yes! With early treatment, most dogs bounce back from Coccidia quickly. Puppies and dogs with weaker immune systems might take a little longer to recover, but they can still go on to live happy, healthy lives. Just remember to keep their environment clean and watch for any recurring symptoms.

Coccidia might sound scary, but it’s a common issue with dogs. Knowing the signs and taking quick action can make all the difference for your dog. If you ever notice symptoms like diarrhoea or lethargy, trust your instincts and call your vet—it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

For any further help and advice please contact us on 01484 246420 and why not join our social media channels and online community on Instagram, Facebook or YouTube.

With Wags and Woofs,

Laura, Dolly & Reggie

Back to blog