Mucus in Stool: What Does It Mean?

The presence of mucus in stools can be common. Possible causes include constipation, dehydration, Crohn’s disease, and irritable bowel syndrome.

Mucus is a thick, jelly-like substance. Your body primarily uses mucus to protect and lubricate your delicate tissues and organs.

It’s also used to reduce damage that may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Mucus can also protect against stomach acid or other potentially harmful fluids or irritants.

But if you start to see a noticeable increase in mucus in your stools, it may be the symptom of an underlying health issue.

The presence of mucus in stools can be common. When you’re generally healthy, mucus is typically clear and appears in such small amounts that it’s often difficult to notice.

A small amount of mucus in your stool is common, but if you see a lot of it, you may have an underlying condition that needs treatment. Bloody mucus in your stool is also a cause for concern.

Hemorrhoids and rectal prolapse can also lead to a small amount of mucus leaking into the stool.

Learn more about rectal discharge.

Dehydration and constipation can cause the typical mucus in your colon to leave the body. Mucus caused by these issues may resolve on its own or with medication.

Changes in mucus levels may also be the result of an inflammatory gastrointestinal condition that requires medical treatment. Some of these conditions include:

Crohn’s disease

Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease that affects your gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Early symptoms may include diarrhea or fatigue, as well as an excess of mucus in the stool (due to a disrupted mucus barrier in the inflamed intestines.

Cystic fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that results in the buildup of thick, sticky mucus in your lungs, pancreas, liver, or intestines. Cystic fibrosis may also cause mucus in the stool.

Ulcerative colitis

Like Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease. It’s a chronic condition that causes inflammation in your large intestine or rectum.

An increase in mucus secretion often occurs when the body is dealing with the symptoms of ulcerative colitis, which in turn can increase the mucus in your stools.

Irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is the name for a group of symptoms such as abdominal pain, cramping, and altered bowel habits that occur outside of a disease diagnosis.

Intestinal infection

Intestinal infection can also lead to mucus in the stool. Examples include infection from bacteria such as salmonella and shigellosis, which can occur from eating contaminated food.

Researchers think bacteria may stimulate mucus production, causing mucusy stools. Severe diarrhea can also increase mucus in stools. Parasitic infections can also lead to mucus in stool.

Malabsorption issues

Malabsorption issues occur when your bowel is unable to properly absorb certain nutrients. Conditions related to malabsorption include lactose intolerance and celiac disease.

There are also conditions that can prevent you from absorbing fats, which are then excreted in your stool. This is called steatorrhea and can be caused by conditions like pancreatitis and gallstones.

Colon or rectal cancer

Colon or rectal cancer starts in your colon or rectum and may cause symptoms such as blood in your stool, mucus in your stool, rectal bleeding, and unexplained weight loss.

Because mucus in the stool may be a symptom of an underlying condition, your treatment will vary depending on your diagnosis.

For some mild cases, especially those connected to periodic dehydration or constipation, lifestyle changes may help resolve the issue. Suggestions may include:

• increasing your fluid intake
• eating foods rich in probiotics or supplements that contain probiotics, such as Bifidobacterium or Lactobacillus
• establishing a nutritious balance of fiber, carbohydrates, and fat in your diet

Prescription medications and ongoing treatment may be necessary for people with chronic conditions, such as Crohn’s disease, cystic fibrosis, ulcerative colitis, and irritable bowel syndrome.

If your doctor discovers cancer, you may be referred to an oncologist. This is a specialist who’ll treat your cancer, and this treatment may reduce and ease the symptoms you’re experiencing.

There’s no one-size-fits-all treatment for abnormal mucus in the stool. To treat the excess mucus, your doctor will need to diagnose and treat any underlying problems which may be related to inflammation in your colon.

Most doctors will begin with a physical exam and a blood test. The test results will give your doctor an understanding of your basic physical health.

If additional information is needed, your doctor may request more tests. These may include:

• stool culture
• colonoscopy
• an imaging test, such as an X-ray or a CT scan, or a pelvic MRI scan
• sweat electrolytes test (typically done if there’s the possibility of cystic fibrosis)

For some people, a diagnosis may be reached quickly. For others, the underlying cause may not be determined despite extensive testing.

While occasionally seeing a bit of mucus in your stool is typically nothing to worry about, if it’s accompanied by these other symptoms, you should see a doctor ASAP:

• persistent diarrhea
• stomach cramping
• blood in stool
• fatigue
• nausea
• vomiting
• unexplained weight loss

Even if there aren’t any other symptoms, persistently seeing mucus in your stool could be a sign of a more serious health issue, and it’s a good idea to see a doctor.

Q:

When would abnormal stool be an emergency?

Anonymous

A:

How much stool is being produced? If you’re producing too much mucus in your stool and experience symptoms like dizziness or feeling faint, call your doctor immediately. It’s highly likely you’re significantly dehydrated, which means you may need IV fluids.

If your stool is bloody or becoming black, this could indicate bleeding from your intestine or colon. If this type of bleeding happens, you may need a blood transfusion.

Mark LaFlamme, MDAnswers represent the opinions of our medical experts. All content is strictly informational and should not be considered medical advice.

Was this helpful?

Most people have mucus in their stools — it’s just typically such a small amount that it isn’t noticed.

Noticeable mucus could be a symptom of a more benign issue, such as occasional dehydration or constipation, or it could be a more chronic health issue.

Depending on the co-occurring symptoms you experience, as well as the duration and amount of mucus in your stool, you may want to talk with your doctor to rule out something more serious.

Your doctor will ask you about your medical and dietary history, do a physical exam, and may run some tests — including blood tests and stool sample tests — if they believe there could be an underlying condition.

Read this article in Spanish.

Mucus in Stool: What Does It Mean?

The presence of mucus in stools can be common. Possible causes include constipation, dehydration, Crohn’s disease, and irritable bowel syndrome.

Mucus is a thick, jelly-like substance. Your body primarily uses mucus to protect and lubricate your delicate tissues and organs.

It’s also used to reduce damage that may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Mucus can also protect against stomach acid or other potentially harmful fluids or irritants.

But if you start to see a noticeable increase in mucus in your stools, it may be the symptom of an underlying health issue.

The presence of mucus in stools can be common. When you’re generally healthy, mucus is typically clear and appears in such small amounts that it’s often difficult to notice.

A small amount of mucus in your stool is common, but if you see a lot of it, you may have an underlying condition that needs treatment. Bloody mucus in your stool is also a cause for concern.

Hemorrhoids and rectal prolapse can also lead to a small amount of mucus leaking into the stool.

Learn more about rectal discharge.

Dehydration and constipation can cause the typical mucus in your colon to leave the body. Mucus caused by these issues may resolve on its own or with medication.

Changes in mucus levels may also be the result of an inflammatory gastrointestinal condition that requires medical treatment. Some of these conditions include:

Crohn’s disease

Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease that affects your gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Early symptoms may include diarrhea or fatigue, as well as an excess of mucus in the stool (due to a disrupted mucus barrier in the inflamed intestines.

Cystic fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that results in the buildup of thick, sticky mucus in your lungs, pancreas, liver, or intestines. Cystic fibrosis may also cause mucus in the stool.

Ulcerative colitis

Like Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease. It’s a chronic condition that causes inflammation in your large intestine or rectum.

An increase in mucus secretion often occurs when the body is dealing with the symptoms of ulcerative colitis, which in turn can increase the mucus in your stools.

Irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is the name for a group of symptoms such as abdominal pain, cramping, and altered bowel habits that occur outside of a disease diagnosis.

Intestinal infection

Intestinal infection can also lead to mucus in the stool. Examples include infection from bacteria such as salmonella and shigellosis, which can occur from eating contaminated food.

Researchers think bacteria may stimulate mucus production, causing mucusy stools. Severe diarrhea can also increase mucus in stools. Parasitic infections can also lead to mucus in stool.

Malabsorption issues

Malabsorption issues occur when your bowel is unable to properly absorb certain nutrients. Conditions related to malabsorption include lactose intolerance and celiac disease.

There are also conditions that can prevent you from absorbing fats, which are then excreted in your stool. This is called steatorrhea and can be caused by conditions like pancreatitis and gallstones.

Colon or rectal cancer

Colon or rectal cancer starts in your colon or rectum and may cause symptoms such as blood in your stool, mucus in your stool, rectal bleeding, and unexplained weight loss.

Because mucus in the stool may be a symptom of an underlying condition, your treatment will vary depending on your diagnosis.

For some mild cases, especially those connected to periodic dehydration or constipation, lifestyle changes may help resolve the issue. Suggestions may include:

• increasing your fluid intake
• eating foods rich in probiotics or supplements that contain probiotics, such as Bifidobacterium or Lactobacillus
• establishing a nutritious balance of fiber, carbohydrates, and fat in your diet

Prescription medications and ongoing treatment may be necessary for people with chronic conditions, such as Crohn’s disease, cystic fibrosis, ulcerative colitis, and irritable bowel syndrome.

If your doctor discovers cancer, you may be referred to an oncologist. This is a specialist who’ll treat your cancer, and this treatment may reduce and ease the symptoms you’re experiencing.

There’s no one-size-fits-all treatment for abnormal mucus in the stool. To treat the excess mucus, your doctor will need to diagnose and treat any underlying problems which may be related to inflammation in your colon.

Most doctors will begin with a physical exam and a blood test. The test results will give your doctor an understanding of your basic physical health.

If additional information is needed, your doctor may request more tests. These may include:

• stool culture
• colonoscopy
• an imaging test, such as an X-ray or a CT scan, or a pelvic MRI scan
• sweat electrolytes test (typically done if there’s the possibility of cystic fibrosis)

For some people, a diagnosis may be reached quickly. For others, the underlying cause may not be determined despite extensive testing.

While occasionally seeing a bit of mucus in your stool is typically nothing to worry about, if it’s accompanied by these other symptoms, you should see a doctor ASAP:

• persistent diarrhea
• stomach cramping
• blood in stool
• fatigue
• nausea
• vomiting
• unexplained weight loss

Even if there aren’t any other symptoms, persistently seeing mucus in your stool could be a sign of a more serious health issue, and it’s a good idea to see a doctor.

Q:

When would abnormal stool be an emergency?

Anonymous

A:

How much stool is being produced? If you’re producing too much mucus in your stool and experience symptoms like dizziness or feeling faint, call your doctor immediately. It’s highly likely you’re significantly dehydrated, which means you may need IV fluids.

If your stool is bloody or becoming black, this could indicate bleeding from your intestine or colon. If this type of bleeding happens, you may need a blood transfusion.

Mark LaFlamme, MDAnswers represent the opinions of our medical experts. All content is strictly informational and should not be considered medical advice.

Was this helpful?

Most people have mucus in their stools — it’s just typically such a small amount that it isn’t noticed.

Noticeable mucus could be a symptom of a more benign issue, such as occasional dehydration or constipation, or it could be a more chronic health issue.

Depending on the co-occurring symptoms you experience, as well as the duration and amount of mucus in your stool, you may want to talk with your doctor to rule out something more serious.

Your doctor will ask you about your medical and dietary history, do a physical exam, and may run some tests — including blood tests and stool sample tests — if they believe there could be an underlying condition.

Read this article in Spanish.

Why white mucus appears in the stool: causes and tips

Content

• 1 White mucus in the stool: causes and what to do
  • 1. 1 White mucus in the stool: what is it and how to determine it?
  • 1.2 Causes of white mucus in stool
  • 1.3 Diseases that may cause white mucus in stool
  • 1.4 What foods can cause white mucus in stool?
  • 1.5 What habits can cause white mucus in the stool
  • 1.6 How to avoid white mucus in the stool: tips and tricks
  • 1.7 Diet helps to get rid of white mucus in the stool
  • 1.8 What medical help is needed for white mucus in the stool
  • 1.9 Getting rid of white mucus in the stool: folk methods
  • 1.10 How to distinguish between harmless white mucus in stools and dangerous symptoms
  • 1.11 Bowel care to avoid white mucus in stools
  • 1.12 Related videos:
  • 1.13 Q&A:
    • • 1.13.0.1 What are the main causes of white mucus in the stool?
      • 1.13.0.2 How can white mucus be avoided in the stool?
      • 1.13.0.3 Does the skin reagent affect the appearance of white mucus in the stool?
      • 1. 13.0.4 Can certain foods cause white mucus in the stool?
      • 1.13.0.5 Can antibiotics cause white mucus in the stool?
      • 1.13.0.6 What can happen if you don’t see a doctor if you have white mucus in your stool?

The appearance of white mucus in the stool can be caused by various reasons. Do not panic, but you need to pay attention to your health and consult a doctor if the appearance of mucus is accompanied by other symptoms.

When we look into the toilet, we usually expect to see clean water, but sometimes feces can look unusual. It is not uncommon for people to find white mucus on their stools, which can be surprising and cause a feeling of anxiety. Well, don’t panic about this, as most cases of white mucus in the stool are not indicative of serious health problems. However, this may be a sign of some minor bowel problems that need to be addressed in time.

In this article, we will look at several causes of white mucus in the stool and give tips on how to avoid it. We will also explain when to see a doctor and what measures to take to keep the intestines healthy.

Therefore, read this article carefully to get important information about the causes of white mucus in the stool, as well as what actions to take to maintain the health of your intestines.

White mucus on feces: what is it and how to determine it?

White mucus in the stool can be a sign of various health problems, so it is important to learn how to identify it in time. This mucus usually looks like mucus from the nose or mouth and may be white in color. To determine its presence, it is necessary to pay attention to its presence in the feces with each act of defecation.

If white mucus appears on the stool regularly, then this may be a sign of bowel disease, such as ulcerative colitis, chronic constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, and so on. It can also be associated with a violation of the digestive system and a violation of the bacterial balance in the body.

• • Symptoms of white mucus in the stool:
    1. When various bowel problems appear;
    2. For abdominal discomfort;
    3. If there is blood or other unusual material in the stool;
    4. If white mucus develops during pregnancy.

If you notice white mucus in your stool, you need to see a doctor for further examination. Only a specialist will be able to determine the cause of such an unpleasant symptom and prescribe the appropriate treatment. In case of detection of manifestations of white mucus, it is not recommended to postpone the visit to the doctor and the treatment itself, because. this can lead to the progression of the disease and increase its complexity.

Causes of white mucus in the stool

White mucus in the stool can appear for various reasons and signal various health problems in the body.

• • • Improper nutrition . One of the most common causes of white mucus in the stool is the use of certain foods, especially flour products, fast food, and foods with the addition of artificial colors and flavors.
    • Dysbacteriosis . An imbalance in the intestinal microflora can lead to the appearance of white mucus in the stool.
    • Infections . Diseases caused by germs, viruses, and fungi can also cause white mucus in the stool.
    • Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract . Inflammatory processes, tumors and other diseases of the intestinal wall or organs of the digestive system can lead to the appearance of white mucus in the stool.

If you notice white mucus in your stool, see your doctor to determine the cause and prescribe treatment.

Diseases that may cause the appearance of white mucus in the stool

The appearance of white mucus in the stool can be caused by various diseases:

• • • Dyspepsia. This is a disease that occurs as a result of a violation of the digestive process. If you have white mucus in your stool, you may have dyspepsia.
    • Celiac disease. This is a disease that results from a malfunction in the processing of gluten in the intestines. If you have white mucus in your stool, you may have celiac disease.
    • Intestinal infection. This is a disease that occurs as a result of the invasion of pathogenic microorganisms in the intestine. If you have white mucus in your stool, you may have an intestinal infection.
    • Colitis. This is a disorder that affects the colon and can present with symptoms such as abdominal pain and stool changes. If you have white mucus in your stool, you may have colitis.

If you notice the appearance of white mucus in your stool, you should see a doctor and get diagnosed to determine the cause of this phenomenon and receive appropriate treatment.

What foods can cause white mucus in the stool?

Dairy products: The protein and fat found in dairy products can cause white mucus to form in the stool. This can happen in people who are lactose intolerant or allergic to dairy products.

Fiber: Lack of sufficient fiber in the diet can cause white mucus in the stool. Fiber is found in vegetables, fruits, and grains and helps improve bowel function and prevent constipation.

Fatty foods: Too much fat in foods can lead to the formation of mucus in the stool. Fatty foods that can lead to these problems include fast food, fatty meats, and frying oils.

Foods high in sugar: Too much sugar in foods can lead to candidiasis, a disease that is often accompanied by white mucus in the stool.

• • • Conditions that may contribute to the appearance of mucus in the stool also include:
    • Presence of infections and bacteria in the body;
    • Use of antibiotics;
    • Chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
    • Irritable bowel syndrome and other neurological diseases.

What habits can cause white mucus in the stool

Poor hygiene. If you do not follow the rules of hygiene, then various health problems may appear, including the appearance of white mucus in the stool. Wash your hands regularly before eating and after going to the toilet to get rid of possible pathogenic bacteria.

Inadequate diet. Overeating fatty, spicy, and fried foods can cause stool problems, including white mucus in the stool. It is necessary to include fresh vegetables, fruits, protein foods in your diet, as well as control the amount of fat and carbohydrates consumed.

Violation of the intestinal microflora. Non-compliance with your daily routine, frequent drinking and smoking can damage the intestinal microflora, causing the appearance of white mucus in the stool. It is necessary to monitor your daily routine, taking into account full sleep and physical activity.

• • • Additional tips for preventing white mucus in stool:
    • Drink enough water to stay hydrated;
    • Reduce stress and nervous tension;
    • See your doctor regularly to prevent and diagnose illnesses.

How to avoid white mucus in stool: tips and tricks0003

• • • Drink more water to keep your bowels moving and prevent stool hardening, which can lead to mucus;
    • Try to avoid foods high in animal fats, which can irritate the intestines and lead to white mucus in the stool;
    • Try to eat more vegetables and fruits, such as apples, bananas, citrus fruits, which contain soluble and insoluble fibers that cleanse the intestines and prevent mucus;
    • Avoid stress and depression, which can lead to an imbalance in the microbial flora of the intestine and, in turn, hinder the process of digestion of food, cause infection and, as a result, the appearance of mucus in the stool;
    • Respect hygiene, above all remember the need for regular hand washing, careful handling of vegetables and fruits before eating them, and hygiene habits when using the toilet;

By following these tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of white mucus in the stool and promote healthy bowel function in general.

Diet helps get rid of white mucus in stool

One of the important factors that can contribute to the formation of white mucus in stool is diet. A diet that contains too many fatty or simple carbohydrates can lead to an imbalance in the gut microflora. Also, some foods can cause an allergic reaction, which can lead to a white coating on the stool.

Some foods to include in your diet to reduce the risk of white mucus in your stool:

• • • Probiotic foods: yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and other foods that contain beneficial bacteria.
    • Fiber: Fruits, vegetables, grains, beans, and other foods that contain fiber can help improve digestion and reduce the risk of mucus in the stool.
    • Dietary Supplements: Foods containing probiotics and prebiotics can also help improve digestion and balance the intestinal flora.

Avoid foods that can harm your health and cause white mucus in your stool. For example, avoid fatty foods, sugar, white bread, salty or spicy foods, and alcohol.

What medical attention is needed for white mucus in the stool

If you notice white mucus in the stool for several days in a row, consult a doctor. Do not postpone the visit until later, as this may be a sign of a serious illness.

Your doctor will examine you and, if needed, order additional tests such as blood, stool, and urine tests, abdominal ultrasound, and colonoscopy.

Never try to self-medicate, because the wrong course of treatment can only worsen your condition.

Remember that early medical attention can help avoid serious consequences. Take care of your health and do not self-diagnose!

Getting rid of white mucus in the feces: folk methods

Our culture attaches great importance to folklore remedies. There are many recipes and methods that allow you to get rid of white mucus on the stool.

Calendula decoction: for preparation it is necessary to pick up dry marigold and pour boiling water over it. After the infusion has cooled, strain and use 2-3 tablespoons daily.

Garlic: Peel 2-3 garlic cloves and mash them in a glass of water. Steep for 10 minutes, strain and drink before meals.

Cabbage juice: squeeze juice from fresh cabbage and drink 100 ml 2-3 times a day.

There are also many other traditional methods that help get rid of white mucus on the stool, such as pumpkin, pomegranate, ginger, etc.

But do not forget that in the presence of chronic diseases and symptoms, it is better to consult a specialist.

How to distinguish between harmless white mucus on the stool and dangerous symptoms

As a rule, the appearance of white mucus on the surface of the stool is not a sign of serious illness. However, if it is accompanied by other symptoms, such as severe stool disorder, abdominal pain or general malaise, you should immediately consult a doctor.

It is important to pay attention to the regular appearance of white mucus in the stool. If this phenomenon occurs constantly, it may indicate intestinal dysbiosis or other problems with the digestive system and also requires a doctor’s consultation.

• • • Conclusions:
    • The appearance of white mucus on the feces is usually not a sign of dangerous diseases
    • Symptoms, such as abdominal pain, general malaise or bloody color of mucus, can indicate serious problems and require medical care
    • Normal stool mucus should be white and homogeneous
    • A situation where white mucus appears constantly may be associated with problems with the digestive system and also requires medical advice

feces

Proper nutrition: one of the main factors of intestinal health is nutrition. It is necessary to eat foods rich in fiber to cleanse the intestinal wall of toxins and toxins. You should also avoid fatty and salty foods, hot spices and canned food, which not only load the stomach, but can also irritate the intestines.

Regular fluid intake: At least 1.5 to 2 liters of water per day is essential for proper bowel function. This will help maintain fluid levels in the body and avoid constipation, which can lead to mucus formation.

Sports activities: physical exercise improves blood circulation, which is very important for the intestines. Sports help to speed up the bowels, which helps to avoid problems with feces.

Stress avoidance: our well-being is very closely related to many factors, including the nervous system. Stress can significantly affect gut health, which can cause it to malfunction.

Probiotics: Use probiotics to improve bowel function and remove excess mucus from the stool. Probiotics promote more efficient digestion and strengthen the immune system.

Related videos:

Q&A:

What are the main causes of white mucus in the stool?

The appearance of white mucus on the stool can be caused by various reasons. This may be the result of dysbacteriosis, disorders of the digestive system, allergies to certain foods or substances, bad habits, infectious diseases, etc. Therefore, to establish a specific cause, it is necessary to consult a gastroenterologist, conduct the necessary studies and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

How can white mucus be avoided in the stool?

White mucus in stool can be avoided by proper nutrition, avoiding bad habits, regular use of enzymes and probiotics, and good hygiene. Also, it is necessary to monitor your psycho-emotional state, avoid stressful situations and strong emotional experiences.

Does the skin reagent affect the appearance of white mucus in the stool?

Yes, a skin reagent can cause white mucus to appear in the stool. If you have recently had a skin test or had any procedures that may have affected your skin and immune system, it may cause white mucus to appear in your stool. In such cases, it is necessary to consult a doctor and identify the cause of this reaction.

Can certain foods cause white mucus in the stool?

Yes, some foods can cause white mucus in the stool. These can be meat products, dairy products, eggs, nuts, citrus fruits, alcoholic beverages, etc. Also, each person may have individual allergic reactions to certain foods. If you notice that the appearance of white mucus on the stool occurs after eating certain foods, then they should be excluded from your diet and seek the advice of a gastroenterologist.

Can antibiotics cause white mucus in the stool?

Yes, antibiotics can cause white mucus in the stool. This is due to the fact that drugs of this group kill not only pathogenic, but also beneficial bacteria in the intestine, which leads to a violation of the microflora and the appearance of various disorders in the gastrointestinal tract. If you have such problems during or after taking antibiotics, then you should consult a gastroenterologist and take appropriate measures to restore the intestinal microflora.

What can happen if you don’t see a doctor if you have white mucus in your stool?

If you do not see a doctor when white mucus appears in the stool, this can lead to the development of various intestinal diseases, including chronic colitis, ulcerative colitis, bacterial infections and others. The causes of this symptom may be different, so self-medication will not be effective. Only a qualified specialist will be able to determine the exact cause and prescribe the appropriate treatment that will help avoid serious consequences of the disease.

Endoparasites in cats and how to deal with them

11/05/2019

Kittens are particularly prone to endoparasites because their immune system has not yet fully developed.

There are two types of endoparasites that your kitten can get:

• protozoa;
• helminths.

What are protozoa?

Protozoa are single-celled organisms that can cause diarrhea.

Kittens are primarily affected by two types of micro-organisms, each of which causes severe diarrhea and incomplete digestion, potentially leading to dehydration and weight loss. Types of parasitic protozoa:

• Giardia (parasites of the genus Giardia) — microscopic protozoa that attach to the mucous membrane of the small intestine;
• coccidia (Coccidia) – enter the body when an animal swallows cysts when eating food or caught prey (especially mice) from the ground.

Some of these parasites survive very well in certain environments and are even resistant to moisture.

How can a cat become infected with protozoa?

A cat or kitten can become infected with protozoa in one of the following ways:

• ingestion of the invasive form of the parasite, a cyst;
• licking wool contaminated with faeces;
• sharing dirty litter boxes with other cats;
• ingestion of feed contaminated with faeces.

Symptoms of infection with protozoa in cats

Only a veterinarian can determine which parasites have entered the animal’s body and prescribe the appropriate treatment. However, infected cats may show a number of symptoms, including:

• diarrhea;
• bloody stools;
• swelling and redness around the anus;
• presence of mucus or oocysts in feces.

If you are concerned about your cat’s health because you notice any of the symptoms listed above, be sure to contact your veterinarian.

How to treat cats with protozoan infestation

Your veterinarian will prescribe oral medications to fight parasites.

There is a vaccine against feline Giardia infection, but it is rarely given due to the effectiveness of oral treatments.

Helminths

Helminths (worms) are parasitic worms that infect the intestines of a cat or kitten.

Two types of helminths are commonly found in cats:

• Roundworms. These worms are localized in the small intestine of the kitten, where they form clusters and can cause intestinal obstruction. They can be detected by the presence of eggs in the cat’s stool or around the anus.
• Tapeworms. Tapeworms attach to the intestinal wall and cause bloating, diarrhea, and sometimes hair loss. Tapeworm infestation can be detected by their presence in the stool. They are like grains of rice.

How can a cat become infected with helminths?

Infection can occur in different ways, depending on the type of helminth, but the most common way of infection is through contact of a cat or kitten with the feces of a worm-infected cat.

Some cats that are often outdoors can become infected with helminths by eating captured infected rodents.

Kittens can get worms from their mother. This happens during feeding, when helminth larvae enter the body of kittens through mother’s milk.

Symptoms of helminth infection in cats

An animal cannot be identified by its appearance, but infection may be accompanied by a number of symptoms:

• diarrhea;
• weight loss;
• dry or rough wool;
• vomiting;
• blood in stool;
• distended abdomen;
• lethargy;
• Visible helminths in faeces or around the anus.

Treatment and prevention of helminth infestation in cats

Your cat or kitten should be regularly dewormed as part of a standard vaccination program.

Based on information about your cat’s lifestyle, your veterinarian will make specific recommendations for routine deworming, paying special attention to whether the animal is outdoors and has contact with other cats.

To ensure the health of the kitten during the development of its immune system, it is important to discuss with the veterinarian both the vaccination schedule and the routine prophylaxis against endoparasites.

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