Faecal Dx antigen testing
The importance of faecal testing.
What makes faecal testing so important?
Parasites are an ongoing hazard to the health of both pets and sometimes their human family members. Pets can be at risk simply by being outside. Some parasites can burrow into a pet’s feet or skin. Pets can also swallow parasites while grooming, nursing or eating contaminated soil or faeces. Regular faecal testing can help detect parasites sooner, which means earlier treatment and better outcomes.
Fighting the war on parasites.
Share ESCCAP recommendations with pet owners.
When clients understand the dangers parasites can pose to their pets, and even to their family members, they are more likely to be in favour of regular parasite screenings.
Recommend year-round, broad-spectrum parasite control.
Alongside a parasiticide protocol based on risk and lifestyle, faecal examinations can be performed for the early detection of anthelmintic resistance, to confirm appropriate treatment is being applied correctly and at an effective frequency.1
Diagnose and treat infections earlier with Faecal Dx antigen testing.
According to the ESCCAP diagnostic guideline 04, antigen testing can identify infections that can be missed by using another method (e.g. infections that are still prepatent) or increase the specificity in case of coprophagy.2
Dog parks are a parasite playground.
A European dog walks study3 revealed the high risk of exposure to intestinal parasites, even among healthy, well-cared-for dogs. This study was conducted in 33 cities across 12 countries and included 2469 dogs visiting 164 parks.
of dog parks tested positive for an intestinal parasite.
Nearly 1 in 4 dogs tested positive for intestinal parasites.
Between 18% and 37% of parks tested positive for hookworms (37.2%), roundworms (28.7%) or whipworms (17.7%).
Faecal Dx antigen testing is an effective way to catch parasite infections missed by the microscope, and even in dogs and cats receiving preventatives. Read the study >
Webinars
Our educational resources include a variety of courses, webinars and videos about the importance and benefits of faecal testing.
Focus on Fecal Testing
Fecal Antigen Testing: A Brief Overview
Why Poop Matters—Fecal Dx and Parasite Testing
To learn about the benefits of Faecal Dx antigen testing, or have any questions answered, fill out our contact form and an IDEXX representative will reach out to you.
References
- ESCCAP Guideline 01 Sixth Edition – May 2021: Worm Control in Dogs and Cats. European Scientific Counsel Companion Animal Parasites; 2021. Accessed May 24, 2024. www.esccap.org/uploads/docs/oc1bt50t_0778_ESCCAP_GL1_v15_1p.pdf
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ESCCAP Guideline 04 First Edition – November 2022: Parasitological Diagnosis in Cats, Dogs and Equines. European Scientific Counsel Companion Animal Parasites; 2022. Accessed May 24, 2024. www.esccap.org/uploads/docs/ebjqliec_1335_ESCCAP_GL4__English_v4_1p.pdf
- Drake J, Sweet S, Baxendale K, et al. Detection of Giardia and helminths in Western Europe at local K9 (canine) sites (DOGWALKS Study). Parasit Vectors. 2022;15(1):311. doi:10.1186/s13071-022-05440-2.