Coccidiosis

Coccidiosis is an intestinal disease caused by protozoa, primarily affecting cattle aged 1 month to 1 year, though all ages can be infected. The disease is caused by Eimeria species, with Eimeria bovis and Eimeria zuernii being the most common. The protozoa invade intestinal cells, multiply rapidly, and cause cell rupture. The final stage, oocysts, are shed in feces and are highly resistant to environmental stress. Oocysts contaminate feed and water, and once ingested by other animals, the life cycle restarts. Clinical signs often appear under stress conditions, such as weather changes or overcrowding, but many infected cattle show no symptoms. 2 pages, color.