At Village Veterinary Practice, we care about your pet's well being and home care as much as their medical
health. Below you will find some articles that we have written to help you take care of your pet.
Coccidia and Giardia form cysts in the intestinal wall,
often causing persistent diarrhea. These are usually picked up from the environment, or by hunting small rodents and other small animals.
Toxoplasma
gondii is an intestinal parasite specific to cats. Cats usually contract the organism after eating an infected rodent. This organism
can also infect people but the most common means of transmission to humans is raw or undercooked meat. Generally when cats pass this
organism in their feces it does not become infectious for a few days, so it is very important to keep the litter box cleaned daily.
Parasite
eggs are shed by the thousands into the environment and a single, untreated puppy can deposit millions of eggs into your yard in less
than a week. Exposure to contaminated areas can lead to infection. After attachment to the lining of the intestine, the worms will
feed on blood and other nutrients. This results in blood loss, diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss and even death if severe.
People and
especially children can become infected by contact with many of these same parasites. This has been an increasing concern. Veterinarians,
physicians and scientists have worked together to develop recommendations to protect your pets and other family members.
Ask us at
Village Veterinary Practice about the best program to protect your family.