Same working day dispatch on orders before 3pm
Free delivery on orders over £40
By subscribing, you save an extra 7.5%
Our Camelid Worm Count Test provides sensitive laboratory screening for gastrointestinal parasites in alpacas and llamas. Also known as a camelid faecal egg count (FEC), this test helps identify and quantify parasite egg shedding, supporting informed treatment decisions and responsible parasite management.
Alpacas and llamas can be affected by a range of gastrointestinal parasites, including roundworms and coccidia. Depending on the parasite involved, infection may be associated with weight loss, poor body condition, diarrhoea, reduced growth or general ill health. Some animals may carry parasites without showing obvious signs, making faecal testing a useful part of routine herd health monitoring.
Our laboratory uses a modified Stoll’s faecal egg-counting method to examine samples for gastrointestinal worm eggs and coccidian oocysts. This sensitive quantitative technique allows us to report parasite egg counts as low as 5 eggs per gram (EPG) of faeces.
The ability to detect low levels of parasite egg shedding can be particularly useful when monitoring alpacas and llamas, where certain parasites may be clinically significant even when egg counts are relatively low. However, an egg count does not directly measure the number of adult worms present or establish the severity of infection.
Our trained laboratory team uses microscopy to examine the submitted faecal sample for relevant gastrointestinal parasites, including:
Where appropriate, results are quantified as eggs per gram (EPG) for nematodes and oocysts per gram (OPG) for coccidia. Findings are reported according to the parasites identified, with relevant interpretative comments where appropriate.
Regular alpaca and llama worm count testing can help monitor gastrointestinal parasite egg shedding over time and support more informed parasite-control decisions.
Rather than relying solely on routine worming schedules, faecal testing provides laboratory evidence that can be considered alongside an animal’s age, body condition, clinical signs, grazing history and previous treatments.
A targeted approach to parasite management can help reduce unnecessary anthelmintic use and support the long-term effectiveness of available treatments.
Our Camelid Worm Count Test may be particularly useful for:
All samples are examined in our purpose built veterinary laboratory by trained laboratory analysts. We use quantitative microscopy to identify and measure relevant parasite egg and oocyst shedding, with findings reviewed before a clear laboratory report is issued.
A low or negative worm count does not completely exclude parasite infection, as shedding can be intermittent or occur below the detection limit. Results should therefore be considered alongside the animal’s clinical signs, age and general health.
Every test includes clear laboratory results, relevant interpretative comments and free after-test advice. If you have any questions about your alpaca or llama’s results, our laboratory team will be happy to help.
Testing a group of animals? Our Camelid Herd Worm Count Test allows pooled screening of up to five alpacas or llamas, providing one combined herd result.
Our Camelid Worm Count Test uses a modified Stoll’s faecal egg-counting method to examine samples from individual alpacas and llamas.
This sensitive microscopy technique allows our laboratory to identify and quantify gastrointestinal parasite eggs. We report egg counts as low as 5 eggs per gram (EPG), helping detect low levels of parasite egg shedding.
Each animal receives an individual laboratory report, allowing you to monitor parasite levels and make informed decisions about parasite control.
We recommend considering this test for:
Collect a fresh faecal sample from the individual animal using the materials supplied. Follow the instructions provided and return the sample promptly for laboratory testing.
Important: This test provides an individual result. Please do not combine samples from different animals in the same container.
If you wish to screen multiple animals together, our Camelid Herd Worm Count Test offers a cost-effective alternative for routine group monitoring.
Our Camelid Worm Count Test screens for gastrointestinal parasites relevant to alpacas and llamas. Our laboratory identifies parasite eggs and oocysts using microscopy and provides quantitative results where appropriate.
Your report includes the parasites detected, quantitative egg or oocyst counts where appropriate, and supporting interpretation to help you understand the findings.
Our modified Stoll’s method allows egg counts to be reported as low as 5 eggs per gram (EPG).
Please note: Some gastrointestinal worms, including Haemonchus contortus (Barber Pole worm), produce eggs that cannot be reliably distinguished from other strongyle-type eggs using routine microscopy. Where species-level confirmation is required, our dedicated Haemonchus contortus qPCR test is available.
Parasite egg shedding can vary, and a negative result does not completely exclude infection. Where clinical concerns remain, we recommend seeking veterinary advice.
Our Camelid Worm Count Test is normally completed, reviewed and reported within 24 hours of the sample arriving at our laboratory, during our normal working days.
Each sample is carefully processed and examined by our trained laboratory team using a sensitive quantitative microscopy method. Once testing is complete, the findings are reviewed and a laboratory report is prepared, including parasite egg counts and relevant interpretative comments where appropriate.
Testing is undertaken Monday to Friday, excluding weekends and bank holidays. Samples arriving outside these working days will be processed when the laboratory next opens. Weekends and bank holidays are not included in our stated turnaround times.
Collect a fresh, representative faecal sample from your alpaca or llama, following the instructions supplied with your kit. Correct sample collection and prompt return are important for maintaining sample quality and supporting accurate laboratory examination.
Your kit includes free Royal Mail Tracked 24 return postage. We recommend posting samples early in the working week, ideally on a Monday or Tuesday, to help minimise delays over weekends.
Your testing kit has a use by period of at least 6 weeks from the date of purchase. Please check the specific use-by date provided with your kit and ensure your sample is collected and returned within this period.
Your results will be sent by email once testing and review are complete. Free after test advice is included should you have any questions about your laboratory report.
This kit is prepared for one cat and includes the materials needed to collect and return the required faecal sample or samples to our laboratory.
Select the appropriate parasite test for your animal(s), or use our quick guide to find the most suitable option.
Collect the sample using your test kit and return it to our laboratory using the free, 24-hour tracked delivery which is included in your kit.
The laboratory team analyses your sample and provides a detailed PDF report via email, with access to our clinical team for further guidance if needed.
