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Summary
Subclinical coccidiosis caused by Isospora felis is common in cats. Daily treatment with sulphadimethoxine for 14 days effectively eradicated Isospora felis infections in cats, alongside hygienic measures.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Parasitology
- Feline Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Coccidiosis is a significant parasitic disease in cats.
- Clinical signs of coccidiosis can vary.
- Subclinical infections may be prevalent in feline populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the occurrence of subclinical coccidiosis in a cat colony.
- To evaluate the efficacy of sulphadimethoxine in treating Isospora felis infections.
- To describe ancillary hygienic measures for controlling coccidiosis.
Main Methods:
- A survey of 58 cats in a colony was conducted to assess Isospora felis infection.
- Treatment involved a 20% solution of sulphadimethoxine at 50 mg/kg bodyweight daily for 14 days.
- Hygienic measures included disposable utensils, frequent fecal removal, and disinfection with sodium carbonate solution.
Main Results:
- Subclinical Isospora felis infection was found in 49 out of 58 cats (84.5%).
- Sulphadimethoxine treatment successfully eradicated the infection in the treated cats.
- Sulphadimidine showed no significant effect on oocyst shedding in one cat.
Conclusions:
- Isospora felis causes widespread subclinical coccidiosis in domestic cats.
- Sulphadimethoxine is an effective treatment for feline coccidiosis.
- Integrated control strategies including chemotherapy and enhanced hygiene are crucial for managing coccidiosis in cat colonies.