Considered to be a leading cause of death attributed to foodborne illness in the United States, greater than 40 million people in U.S. carry Toxoplasma parasite. Toxoplasmosis is an infection that can infect virtually all species of warm-blooded animals caused by Toxoplasma gondii. Cats are the definitive host but transmission can occur from congenital infection, ingestion of infected tissue or contaminated food or water (CDC, 2022). Cats are typically affected more prevalently by Toxoplasmosis than dogs. Kittens can typically shed oocysts up to 3 weeks after infection. An immunocompetent person should be able to mount a sufficient response to remaina symptomatic but same statement cannot be made for animals.
Clindamycin is a lincosamide antibiotic that have broad spectrum activity particularly against anaerobic bacteria; which is why preferential towards protozoal infections. This antibiotic class is believed to disrupt protein synthesis and thus growth. Clindamycin is the drug of choice in both cats and dogs. However, higher doses can come with potential unwanted side effects including vomiting, diarrhea and anorexia These adverse effects appear to be related to local Gl irritation. Pharmacy Solutions can be your source for compounded weight tailored medications of capsules and/or flavored suspensions to ease the burden of dosing your animals.
Dosing:
Toxoplasmosis Dogs- 12.5mg/kg by mouth every 12 hours for 28 days
Toxoplasmosis Cats- 10mg/kg by mouth every 12 hours for 28 days
Lappin, M.R., Greene, C.E., Winston, S., Toll, S.L. & Epstein, M.E. (1989) Clinical feline toxoplasmosis. Serologic
diagnosis and therapeutic management of 15 cases. J Vet Intern Med. Jul-Sep;3(3): 139-43. doi:
10.1111/.1939-1676.1989.tb03089.x.
Cdc.gov. (2022) CDC – Toxoplasmosis – Epidemiology