Coccidia: Single-celled parasite.
Common in: Puppies, kittens and debilitated adults.
Diagnosis: Microscopic fecal exam of fresh stool sample.
Treatment: Varies greatly; No treatment; oral medication; hospitalization for severe cases.
Possible Symptoms: None; diarrhea; blood in stool (dark tar-colored stool).
Possible Transmission: Ingestion of the infective stage of the parasite.
Lifestyle Prevention: Disposal of all stools and cleaning the pet's living area.
Medical Prevention: None.
Zoonotic Transmission: Uncommon, but can occur.