Clostridium

Transmission

Clostridium is a part of the normal bacteria found in the gastrointestinal tract. The problem starts when there is an overgrowth of this bacterium. It is commonly found in soil, decomposing vegetation and trash.

Symptoms

Chronic diarrhea

Treatment

Clostridium can be treated with a round of antibiotics (Metronidazole). We recommend testing a fecal in house if your pet is experiencing persistent diarrhea because routine fecals sent to the lab do not test for Clostridium.

Here are some easy steps to maintain proper hygiene and lessen the chance of re-infestation:

Pick up your dog or cats stool so that the parasites do not have time to get into the soil or living area. Dogs and cats can re-infect themselves if they come into contact with their own feces.
Wash your hands after playing with your pet or picking up their stool. Make children wash hands as well and keep them from putting their hands in their mouth.

Human Infection

Clostridium can not be transferred from pet to human, although humans can become infected with Clostridium through the environment.

	15 Jewett Lane Fredericksburg, VA 22406 Office 540.286.2855 Fax 540.286.2655 info@hartwoodanimalhospital.com

Home About Us Our Mission Newsletters Services Wildlife Forms Map Photos Links	Clostridium Transmission Clostridium is a part of the normal bacteria found in the gastrointestinal tract. The problem starts when there is an overgrowth of this bacterium. It is commonly found in soil, decomposing vegetation and trash. Symptoms Chronic diarrhea Treatment Clostridium can be treated with a round of antibiotics (Metronidazole). We recommend testing a fecal in house if your pet is experiencing persistent diarrhea because routine fecals sent to the lab do not test for Clostridium. Here are some easy steps to maintain proper hygiene and lessen the chance of re-infestation: Pick up your dog or cats stool so that the parasites do not have time to get into the soil or living area. Dogs and cats can re-infect themselves if they come into contact with their own feces. Wash your hands after playing with your pet or picking up their stool. Make children wash hands as well and keep them from putting their hands in their mouth. Human Infection Clostridium can not be transferred from pet to human, although humans can become infected with Clostridium through the environment.