Thread: Giardia

How do I control Giardia in my cattery?

Infection with Giardia can be a big problem in catteries (and multi-cat households), and a multi-faceted approach is needed.

Treat Animals: Treat all nonpregnant animals. On the last day of treatment, move them to a holding facility while a clean area is established. When the animals are moved back to the clean area, treat them once again.

Decontaminate the Environment: Establish a clean area. If possible, this can be the whole facility. Otherwise, create a few clean runs or cages, separate from the others. Remove all fecal material from the areas since the organic matter in feces can greatly decrease the effectiveness of many disinfectants. Steam clean the area. Quaternary ammonium disinfectants used according to manufacturer's directions or a 1:5 or 1:10 solution of bleach can usually kill the cysts within one minute. Allow the area to dry for several days before reintroducing the animals. These solutions can also be used to clean litterboxes. Rinse out very well and allow to dry before reusing. NOTE: Use extreme caution when using quaternary ammonium compounds and bleach solutions. Use proper ventilation, gloves, protective clothing and follow your veterinarian's recommendations.

Clean the Animals: Cysts can remain stuck to the haircoats of infected animals. So before moving the treated animals to the clean area, they should be shampooed and rinsed well. Especially concentrate on the perianal area.

Prevent Reintroduction of Giardia: Giardia can be brought into the cattery either by introducing an infected animal or on your shoes or boots. Any new animal should be quarantined from the rest of the animals and be treated and cleaned as described above. You should either use disposable shoe covers or clean shoes/boots and use a footbath containing quaternary ammonium compounds to prevent people from reintroducing Giardia.

Remember, Giardia of cats may infect people, so good, personal hygiene should be used by adults when cleaning litter boxes or picking up the yard, and by children who may play with pets or in potentially contaminated areas.