Cocci info needed please

[Reed77]

I'm doing research on the cocci parasite, does anyone have any good info links?

thank you

[DJ in WA]

I assume you’re referring to the coccidia parasite, which causes coccidiosis – diarrhea.

Type in coccidiosis and cattle in google and you should get a lot of stuff.

Coccidia are a protozoa parasite that are spread through the manure of an infected animal. They survive best in moist environments. Cattle ingest them by eating or licking where manure was. Avoid feeding on the ground, and keep things generally clean and dry, when possible. Around bale rings can be a nasty wet spot where animals eat and can get infected.

It takes 3 weeks from ingesting the coccidia, to development of signs of diarrhea. So a calf with diarrhea at 2 weeks of age cannot have coccidiosis. A few of the parasites may be ingested without causing disease, and is actually good to provide immunity. Most animals are exposed sooner or later, so older animals are generally more immune, and younger animals are more susceptible to disease. Stress also lowers immunity and increases the chance of disease.

You can diagnose by taking a fresh manure sample to the veterinary office where they will see it with a microscope.

Animals usually get better on their own and when having diarrhea, it’s too late for drugs to kill the coccidia. They may need treatment for secondary problems. You can try to prevent disease in other cows on the assumption that they were similarly exposed and are in the earlier stages before diarrhea hits. Usually put Corid in the water in recommended amounts.

[Creamers]

I have to disagree if it is like it is in goats - diarrhea isn't nearly too late to treat if the dosage is right. . .


Corid isn't a good option to treat with, just prevent with. . . in goats or chickens. . .again, but cattle haven't had cocci issues, but my chickens and goats do yearly.

I am not sure of the dose in cattle - we use Dimethox - 4cc per 10lbs (powder mixed whole pack to 1 pint water) - the 40% injectable might be the best bet.

If it is bad enough, you will have internal damage, need antibiotics, treatment and months to recover.