What are Giardia?

Giardias are actually protozoa’s (single celled organisms) and are commonly found in the intestinal tract (mostly the small intestines). This microscopic parasite clings to the surface of the intestine, or floats free in the mucous lining of the intestine. A few percent of dogs and cats will carry Giardia organisms and not show any signs of disease.  Actual diarrhea, bloody or mucousy stool often accompanied by gas production is seen most often in affected puppies and kittens.  Giardia can have a significant impact on the health status of malnourished and stressed pups and kittens. 

Life Cycle

The organism is ingested into the system and finds its way into the small intestines. The organism starts out as a premature trophozoite. In the intestinal tract it attaches to the cells with its adhesive disc and rapidly divides to produce a whole population of trophozoites. In this picture you can see the premature organisms (mixed in with the mature trophozoites).

As they detach themselves they are flushed through the intestinal tract. If intestinal flow is fast then they may appear in the stool. However, if they have time, they will develop into the inactive, more durable, cyst form of the organism and these will be passed in the stool. See the picture below:

Once they have entered into this stage they are capable of surviving the environment once they leave their host. They are then able to enter another host repeating the entire cycle again.

Where does Giardia come from?

Giardia is found in the feces of an infected animal or human. Animals need to have their surroundings CLEAN if found infected. They can re-infect themselves by licking the surroundings contaminated with feces.

What are the symptoms of Giardia?

• The stools will look light in color, greasy and soft.
• Straining to have a bowel movement
• Mucus in the stool
• Diarrhea
• Blood in the stool
• Gas
• Fatigue
• Weight loss

If your pet is exhibiting most of these symptoms you may want to have your pet checked for Giardia. (be careful. lf they exhibited only a few symptoms it would be less likely for your pet to have Giardia) These symptoms may last weeks, months or years if untreated.

Treating Giardia

This involves a short treatment of medication. An antibiotic with an anti-parasitic may help. Sometimes a repeat treatment may be necessary. Occasionally the treatment is not effective and the Giardia may remain in the bowel for months or years.