Should I treat Cat A with Ronidazole without testing Cat B for trichicomonas first?

I'm feeling pretty stressed and could really use some advice. I've got two cats, Luna and Max. Recently, Luna has been having some persistent digestive issues, and after a lot of research and vet visits, we suspect it might be tritrichomonas foetus. The vet suggested treating her with Ronidazole. But here's where I'm unsure—I haven't had Max tested yet. He's showing no symptoms, but they share everything: food, water, and litter. I can't afford to have both of them treated without testing first, but I'm worried about Max being a potential carrier. Has anyone been through this and can offer some guidance? Should I go ahead and treat Luna ASAP, or is testing Max first the smarter move? Thanks so much for your help!

Answer

Hello there! It's great that you're attentive to your cats' health. Ronidazole is often used to treat Tritrichomonas foetus, a parasite that can cause diarrhea in cats. Before treating Cat A, it's very important to have a proper diagnosis. Treating without confirming the issue could lead to unnecessary medication, which might not be safe or effective.



Testing both cats for this parasite can provide you with a clear course of action. If Cat B is a carrier and not showing symptoms, treating only one cat might not resolve the issue in the long run, since reinfection could occur.



If diarrhea is the issue, ensure that both cats are hydrated and comfortable. You can offer them bland meals, like boiled chicken and rice (without seasoning), to see if their digestion improves. Keep their litter box clean to prevent further irritation and watch for signs like lethargy, blood in stool, or loss of appetite, which could indicate a more serious condition requiring immediate attention.



For peace of mind and to ensure the best care for your cats, I recommend booking a video consult with one of our vets here at Dial A Vet. They can guide you through testing and treatment options tailored to your situation.

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