Coccidia are microscopic parasites that commonly infect the intestines of dogs and cats. Although most often, Isospora canis and Isospora felis forms of the parasite infect dogs and cats, respectively, Cryptospordium and Toxoplasma forms of coccidia may also infect these and other animals. In addition, these less commonly found parasites are zoonotic, meaning that they can be transmitted to humans.
Coccidiosis rarely affects a healthy dog or cat significantly, but it can lead to gastrointestinal problems and death in debilitated or immunocompromised adult animals. Puppies and kittens also are at risk for serious infection.
