What is coccidia in dogs?

Coccidia is a tiny parasite that lives in a dog’s intestines. You cannot see it with your eyes. It can make dogs — especially puppies — very sick with diarrhea.

How do dogs get it?

Infected animals pass tiny egg-like forms (called oocysts) in their stool. These can live for months in dirt, grass, and on surfaces.

• Sniffing or licking dirt or water that has the parasite
• Eating an infected mouse or other small animal
• Contact with infected stool (yards, parks, kennels, shelters)
• Using bowls, bedding, or outdoor areas that were not cleaned well

Signs to watch for

• Watery diarrhea (sometimes with mucus)
• Bloody stool in worse cases
• Dehydration (dry gums, sunken eyes, low energy)
• Less appetite and weight loss
• Vomiting (sometimes)
• Weakness or tiredness

If your puppy has sudden watery or bloody diarrhea, do not wait it out — get help.

Diagnosis & treatment

We look for coccidia with a fecal (stool) test. One negative test does not always mean “no coccidia,” especially if symptoms continue.

Good news: coccidia can be treated. A common medicine is sulfadimethoxine (Albon). Treatment often lasts about 10 to 14 days. Your vet may also use other medicines such as ponazuril when that is the better fit. Fluids, probiotics, and a bland diet may be needed if your dog is dehydrated.

Cleaning at home

• Pick up stool right away
• Clean hard floors with diluted ammonia (about 1 cup per gallon of water). Regular bleach often does not kill coccidia
• Steam-clean carpets when you can
• Wash bedding and toys in hot water; dry on high heat