Toxoplasmosis and Other Intestinal Coccidial Infections in Cats and Dogs

Toxoplasma gondii and related coccidians are intracellular protozoan parasites. Coccidia are obligate intracellular parasites normally found in the intestinal tract. Virtually all warm blooded animals, including humans are commonly infected with coccidians. This article reviews the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of infections in cats and dogs related to Isospora spp, Toxoplasma gondii, and Neospora caninum. Much remains to be learned concerning the pathogenesis of clinical coccidiosis.