Dogs and cats infected with Giardia parasite

An unusually high number of dogs and cats, and even a few rabbits, have been infected with the Giardia parasite in the past week or so.

Giardia is a microscopic parasite that can live in the intestines of pets such as dogs and cats and may cause severe gastrointestinal disease.

There are many variants of Giardia. Those that infect dogs and cats can infect humans, but this is not common.

Giardia is spread by faecal-contaminated food, water or soil.

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Food and Veterinary authority HFS advises pet owners to keep a close eye on their pets these days and make sure they do not come into contact with faeces from other animals, especially in areas with stray cats.

Pet owners are also urged to remove faeces left by their pets when walking in public spaces.

If your pet displays symptoms such as diarrhoea, vomiting or nausea, it should not come into contact with other animals, and it should be taken to a vet, according to the HFS.

Read the Faroese versions of this article here and here.

English version by prosa.fo.

More Faroese News in English.