Trichomoniasis in Dogs & Cats: Diarrhea Symptoms, PCR Testing & Home Care [2025]
An intestinal protozoal infection common in group-housed kittens, with chronic large-bowel diarrhea as the primary symptom
When to See a Vet
Seek immediate veterinary care (emergency)
- •Persistent, frequent, high-volume watery diarrhea that does not stop
- •Obvious dehydration with lethargy, disorientation, or abnormal behavior
- •Persistent vomiting or inability to eat, with weakness
Schedule a veterinary appointment soon (within 24-72 hours)
- •Intermittent mucus or blood in the stool lasting more than two days
- •Reduced appetite lasting more than two days with weight loss
- •Clearly reduced activity level, but still able to walk independently
01What Symptoms Indicate a Problem?
Intestinal protozoal infections often cause recurring or intermittent diarrhea, sometimes with mucus or blood, and can affect appetite and energy levels.
- Recurring or intermittent diarrhea, often with mucus or blood in the stool
- Abdominal tenderness or visible discomfort and flinching when picked up
- Decreased appetite, gradual weight loss, or signs of malnutrition
- Signs of dehydration such as reduced skin turgor or dry mouth
- Reduced activity, lethargy, or lower energy than usual
- If diarrhea persists beyond 48 hours, schedule a vet visit promptly
Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:
- ⚠️ Seek emergency veterinary care immediately if there is severe bloody stool or persistent vomiting
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02How to Assess at Home? Key Observations and When to Seek Emergency Care
Tracking symptoms and stool characteristics at home helps your vet quickly assess the situation and arrange appropriate tests.
- Record the time, frequency, and consistency of each bowel movement
- Collect a fresh stool sample in a sealed container to bring to the clinic
- Take photos or videos of the stool, vomiting, or any abnormal behavior
- Monitor and log changes in appetite, water intake, and activity level
- Weigh your pet daily and note any weight trends
- Note when symptoms first appeared and any recent exposures or environmental changes
03How Will the Vet Diagnose the Condition? Common Diagnostic Tests
Your vet will use a physical exam and laboratory tests to identify the cause, and may arrange advanced imaging or a specialist referral if needed.
Physical examination
assessing abdominal pain on palpation, degree of dehydration, and overall condition
Fecal microscopy and bacterial culture
screening for common parasites and bacterial infections
PCR (fecal DNA testing)
detects protozoal DNA to confirm infection
Blood and biochemistry panel
evaluating dehydration, electrolyte balance, and organ function
Advanced imaging (abdominal ultrasound or other) if needed to rule out other causes
04How to Treat and Care for Your Pet After Diagnosis? Medication, Diet, and Home Care Guide
Treatment must be guided and supervised by your vet; completing the course and follow-up testing helps confirm the pathogen has been cleared and recovery is on track.
- Complete the full course of treatment as directed by your vet; do not stop or adjust the dosage on your own
- Dietary management: offer low-irritant, easily digestible, and nutritionally adequate food
- Clean the home environment and isolate your pet to reduce direct contact with other animals
- Schedule a follow-up visit with fecal or PCR testing to evaluate treatment response
- If symptoms persist or worsen, consider a referral to a gastrointestinal specialist
05What to Prepare Before Your Vet Visit? Key Information to Help Your Vet Diagnose Quickly
This content is for reference only and cannot replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of illness, please seek veterinary care promptly.