Neosporosis in Dogs

Canine Neosporosis

Neosporosis is a coccidian protozoon (parasite) of dogs and other animals. It is caused by the organism Neospora caninum. Infection is most commonly transplacental, which means it is transferred from mother to fetus while still in the womb, but ingestion of the infective cyst is the most common mode of transmission in older dogs.

Neospora caninum naturally infects dogs, with puppies being most commonly infected. There is no evidence of breed susceptibility, although there is a higher prevalence in hunting dogs.

What to Watch For

Diagnosis of Neosporosis in Dogs

Treatment of Neosporosis in Dogs

Home Care and Prevention

Administer all medication as directed by your veterinarian. Contact your veterinarian at once if your pet is not responding to therapy and/or getting worse. Return for follow up examination and testing as recommended by your veterinarian.

Repeated transplacental transmission occurs, so bitches whelping an infected litter should not be re-bred.