Giardia and Tritrichomonas: Incidental Findings or Significant Gut Pathogens?*

Giardia and Tritrichomonas: Incidental Findings or Significant Gut Pathogens?

Flagellate protozoa are common commensals of the mammalian gut, but Giardia and Tritrichomonas spp may sometimes cause or contribute to diarrhoea. This makes consideration of these organisms as possible differentials important when investigating causes of diarrhoea in cats and dogs. Their presence can be difficult to interpret however, as they can sometimes be commensal in nature, making infection an incidental finding. This article considers the significance of Giardia spp in dogs, cats and humans and Tritrichomonas foetus in cats, their diagnosis, treatment and control.