What are the symptoms of giardiasis?

Soft diarrhoea, sometimes greasy and foul-smelling. Intermittent diarrhoea (it comes and goes). Weight loss or slow growth in puppies. Occasional vomiting. Many animals are carriers without symptoms

Is Giardiasis contagious?

Yes, giardiasis spreads between animals. It is also a zoonosis: it can be transmitted to people too.

Parásitos

Giardiasis

Intestinal infection caused by the protozoan Giardia. Very common, especially in puppies and in animals that live in groups. It can be a zoonosis.

Mild🐕 Dogs🐈 Cats🐰 Rabbits Contagious Zoonosis

Symptoms to watch for

• Soft diarrhoea, sometimes greasy and foul-smelling
• Intermittent diarrhoea (it comes and goes)
• Weight loss or slow growth in puppies
• Occasional vomiting
• Many animals are carriers without symptoms

Causes

Spread through cysts present in faeces, water or a contaminated environment. It survives well in damp environments. Common in breeding kennels, boarding facilities and shelters.

Diagnosis

A specific faecal test (antigen test or cyst detection). It is worth testing several samples because shedding is intermittent.

Treatment

Specific antiparasitics (fenbendazole, metronidazole) as prescribed by the vet. Intensive environmental hygiene: the cyst is resilient. Bathe the animal to remove cysts from the coat.

Prevention

Hygiene, picking up faeces, clean water, preventing drinking from puddles. Disinfection of the environment when animals live in groups.

When should you see the vet?

See your vet if there is intermittent diarrhoea that does not resolve, especially in puppies or if several animals are affected.

Consult a vet

WetAi guides you and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Wallapets accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.