CASE REPORT: TREATMENT OF GIARDIASIS COMPLICATED BY SEVERE DEHYDRATION IN A DOMESTIC CAT

Abstract

Giardiasis is a parasitic disease in cats caused by the protozoan Giardia spp., which affects the digestive tract. Clinically, the disease is characterized by lethargy, chronic diarrhea, malabsorption, and a decline in body condition resulting from impaired nutrient absorption. An 8-month-old male local cat was presented to the veterinary clinic in a lethargic state, with a history of recurrent watery diarrhea lasting approximately seven days, accompanied by reduced appetite and weight reduction. Physical examination revealed severe dehydration (estimated at 10%), a capillary refill time (CRT) of >2 s, delayed skin turgor >2 s, dry oral mucosa, and tachycardia. Parasitological fecal examination revealed Giardia spp. cysts, and a rapid antigen test confirmed the diagnosis of giardiasis. Hematological analysis revealed lymphocytosis, macrocytic hypochromic anemia, and thrombocytopenia. The cat was diagnosed with giardiasis, and the prognosis was favorable (fausta). Emergency therapy involved the administration of intravenous Ringer's lactate (30 ml/h) to correct dehydration and stabilize tissue perfusion, followed by metronidazole (20 mg/kg BW, PO, q12h for 7 days), supportive therapy with Guanistrep^® (kaolin 986 mg, pectin 40 mg), and a dietary switch to gastrointestinal wet food. Evaluation after 72 h showed significant improvement in vital signs and fecal consistency; the cat's clinical condition and vital signs remained stable after 14 days of therapy, and a follow-up direct fecal smear on day 8 showed no Giardia spp. cysts.