Can Humans Get Coccidia from Cats? Understanding the Risks
Coccidia are
microscopic parasites that infect the intestinal tract of cats. Although they can cause significant illness in young or immunocompromised cats, it’s important to understand whether these parasites pose a threat to humans. In this article, we’ll explore the transmission, symptoms, and prevention of coccidiosis in cats—from both veterinary and human safety perspectives.
What Are Coccidia?
Coccidia are single-celled, protozoan parasites. In cats, the species most commonly implicated in infections are
Isospora felis and
Isospora rivolta. These are
host-specific parasites, meaning they can only infect cats and not other animals or humans.
Other less common coccidia species that may be found in cats include:
- Hammondia
- Toxoplasma gondii
- Besnoitia
- Sarcocystis
- Cryptosporidium
Among these,
Toxoplasma gondii and
Cryptosporidium are zoonotic, meaning they
can infect humans, particularly those with weakened immune systems or pregnant women.
How Coccidia Are Transmitted in Cats
Cats become infected by ingesting
infective oocysts from contaminated sources such as:
- Feces in litter boxes
- Contaminated soil or food
- Grooming fur or paws after stepping in infected areas
- Hunting and eating infected rodents
Infected cats shed immature oocysts in their feces. These then
sporulate (mature) in the environment over 6 to 10 days and become infective. The hardy oocysts can survive for months, making environmental sanitation critical.
Symptoms of Coccidiosis in Cats
Most adult cats remain asymptomatic. However, in kittens and immunocompromised cats, symptoms may include:
- Watery or bloody diarrhea
- Dehydration
- Lethargy
- Weight loss
- Abdominal pain and cramping
The severity generally correlates with age, immune status, and stress levels. Triggers such as weaning or environmental change may exacerbate symptoms.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Veterinarians diagnose coccidiosis by examining fresh stool samples using a
fecal flotation test. When this is inconclusive,
PCR testing may help confirm the infection.
Treatments include:
- Sulfadimethoxine (Albon): Standard oral medication that inhibits replication
- Ponazuril or toltrazuril: Used when Albon is ineffective
- Supportive care: Fluids, probiotics, and dietary changes
Treatment duration varies from 5–21 days. Severely ill kittens may require hospitalization.
Preventing Coccidiosis
Key prevention tips:
- Remove feces from litter boxes daily
- Disinfect surfaces with diluted bleach (1 cup per gallon of water)
- Use steam cleaning or high-heat methods
- Prevent hunting and feeding raw meat
- Keep infected cats isolated
Can Humans Catch Coccidia from Cats?
In general,
humans cannot catch the typical cat-specific coccidia like Isospora felis and Isospora rivolta. These parasites are host-specific and do not pose a direct threat to human health.
However,
Toxoplasma gondii and
Cryptosporidium—other protozoa sometimes present in cats—
can infect humans. Infections with these organisms can cause serious health issues:
- Toxoplasma gondii: Risky for pregnant women due to potential birth defects
- Cryptosporidium: Hazardous to people with weakened immune systems
Protecting Human Health
To minimize any zoonotic risks:
- Use gloves when cleaning litter boxes
- Wash hands thoroughly after handling cats or cleaning up feces
- Do not feed cats raw or undercooked meats
- Keep indoor cats away from rodents
- Disinfect litter boxes and surrounding areas regularly
No vaccine currently exists for coccidia in cats, so proactive hygiene and veterinary care remain the best prevention methods.
Outlook and Conclusion
With proper
diagnosis, treatment, and environmental management, most cats recover fully from coccidiosis. Although most cat coccidia are not transferable to humans, awareness and good hygiene can prevent rare zoonotic cases involving Toxoplasma or Cryptosporidium.
By understanding the nature of these parasites and how to manage them, you can keep both your feline friends and your household safe.
