TREATMENT OF GIARDIASIS IN DOMESTIC CATS

Abstract

Giardiasis is a disease caused by Giardia sp. a protozoan which infects the small intestine causing non-specific diarrhea in humans and other mammals. This article aims to help readers find out the causes of giardiasis in cats, and how to treat cases of giardiasis in cats. A 1-year-old queen named Qaqa that weighs 2.15 kg had suffered diarrhea for a month. Previously, the cat had been given an antidiarrheal drug called Guanistrep which helped in reducing the frequency of diarrhea but after finishing the drug, the diarrhea recurred. Clinical examination showed the cat experience inflammation on the anus, slow capillary refill time (CRT), and increased body temperature but there was no indication that the cat was dehydrated. Examination of the feces found the presence of the protozoa Giardia sp. The Hematological examination of the cat indicates leukocytosis, monocytosis, and granulocytosis. The cat was diagnosed with Giardiasis. The therapy given is the administration of Metronidazole, Nutria Gel Plus, and Guanistrep which all were given orally. Two weeks after the administration of the medication, the frequency of the cat's defecation decreased and the feces had a solid consistency. To avoid Giardia sp. infection, owners need to be educated on how to properly care for their cat’s by providing drinking water with mineral water and limiting the interaction with wild animals, as well as maintaining the cleanliness of the cat's residence, especially where the cat eats and drinks.