Faecal examination and parasite diagnostics
Faecal flotation and rapid tests (giardia, parvovirus) in our laboratory, with the result the same day. We recommend worming only when it is needed.
What it involves
A faecal test detects the eggs and cysts of intestinal parasites (roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, tapeworms, coccidia) and — with rapid antigen tests — Giardia and parvovirus. We also assess the consistency macroscopically, and look for blood, mucus and undigested residue, and where needed we prepare a smear to look for bacteria and yeasts.
The basic method is flotation: the sample is mixed with a high-density solution in which parasite eggs float to the surface and settle on a slide, which is examined under a microscope. Parasites shed eggs irregularly, so the most reliable option is a pooled sample from 3 consecutive days.
The test allows deworming to be targeted — the right drug for the right parasite — instead of preventive deworming “blindly”, and it explains the cause of many chronic cases of diarrhoea.
When it is used
We recommend a faecal test for any diarrhoea lasting more than 2–3 days, for weight loss, for a swollen abdomen in puppies and kittens, for recently adopted animals, before vaccinating young animals, and every 3 months in adults as an alternative to routine deworming.
In homes with small children or people with weakened immunity, testing the animal's faeces also matters for human health — roundworm infection and giardiasis are zoonoses.
Indications: symptoms that should prompt a visit
- A puppy or kitten has loose, foul-smelling faeces and a swollen tummy.
- White worms or segments like grains of rice are visible in the animal's faeces.
- A dog has chronic, recurrent diarrhoea with mucus.
- A cat is losing weight, and the faeces are greasy and unpleasant-smelling.
- The animal has recently been adopted or brought from a shelter.
- You want to check whether deworming is needed at all.
- There is a small child at home and you want to be sure the animal has no parasites.
Conditions for which we use it in particular
Diagnostics beforehand
Please collect a piece of faeces (the size of a walnut) on each of 3 consecutive days into one container, keep it in the fridge and bring it in as soon as possible after the last collection. A single fresh sample is enough for a Giardia or parvovirus test. Faeces must not be collected from the ground with sand mixed in, nor from clumping litter.
We combine the faecal test with a clinical examination and, for chronic diarrhoea, with a blood count, biochemistry and abdominal ultrasound, so that we do not stop at parasites when the cause lies elsewhere.
How it proceeds
We accept the sample at reception or during a visit; it can also be brought in without the animal if the veterinarian ordered the test beforehand. In the laboratory we perform flotation and microscopic assessment and, where indicated, rapid antigen tests. The result is usually ready in 30–60 minutes.
The veterinarian discusses the result and chooses a drug for the parasite found — we set the dose by body weight, and for Giardia and coccidia we plan a course of several days and hygiene measures at home. A negative result with persistent diarrhoea leads to further investigation of the digestive tract.
Aftercare
After deworming, dead parasites may appear in the faeces for 1–2 days. With Giardia it is important to wash the animal at the end of the course (cysts stick to the coat) and to disinfect the litter tray, bed and bowls.
We perform a follow-up faecal test 2–4 weeks after treatment to confirm that it worked. Please call if the diarrhoea does not improve after 3 days of treatment, blood appears or the animal stops eating.
Frequently asked questions
How much faeces is needed, and from how many days?
Ideally a small portion from each of 3 consecutive days, collected into one container and kept in the refrigerator. For a giardia or parvovirus test alone, one fresh sample is enough.
I dewormed my dog and the test is still positive — how is that possible?
Products act on different parasites; for example, many tablets do not cover Giardia or coccidia. The test lets us choose the right drug.
Does a negative result mean there are no parasites?
Not always — eggs are shed irregularly. That is why we collect a sample over 3 days and, when suspicion is strong, repeat the test or perform PCR.
Can I catch something from my dog or cat?
Roundworms and Giardia — yes, especially children. Regular faecal testing and hand hygiene reduce the risk to a minimum.
We manage every case individually. The scope, indications and course described above are indicative; we agree the exact diagnostic and treatment plan during the consultation. This content is for information only and does not replace a veterinary consultation.
Questions about faecal testing and parasite diagnostics?
Call us or book a consultation. We will set out the diagnostic and treatment plan in writing, before you decide.