The key to prevention is proper sanitation to ensure that the environment is free of feces. Once the Isospora are passed in the feces, they can quickly develop into the infective stage, so rapid removal of the feces is very important. Mature oocysts of Isospora are resistant to most cleaning products and they can survive for months to years in the environment. However, the use of strong ammonia-containing compounds may be helpful in disinfection, and steam cleaning also helps kill the infectious oocysts. Be sure to allow for adequate ventilation while cleaning the infected areas, as fumes from cleaning products can be harmful to animals and people.
Dogs and cats should not be permitted to ingest rodents, since rodents may be carriers of the parasites. The treatment of infected canine and feline mothers soon after parturition may help prevent the spread of coccidia to the young.
