Cryptosporidium and Giardia Test (antigen)

Further information

Our Giardia and Cryptosporidium Antigen Test is a combined faecal test for dogs and cats. It tests one sample for both Giardia and Cryptosporidium antigens at the same time. Both organisms are intestinal protozoan parasites that may be associated with diarrhoea and other gastrointestinal signs. However, some animals can carry these parasites without showing obvious signs of illness. Our veterinary laboratory uses targeted antigen technology to test for Giardia and Cryptosporidium. Combining both targets in one test provides a convenient option when either parasite may be a concern. The test requires a faecal sample from a single animal. Please do not pool samples from different animals, as pooled samples are not suitable for this test. We report each target separately, so your laboratory report will clearly show whether Giardia antigen and Cryptosporidium antigen were detected. Our trained laboratory team performs and reviews the antigen testing before issuing the results. In addition, every test includes a clear laboratory report and free after test advice where required. After treatment: Please allow at least 3 weeks after completing treatment before submitting a sample for this antigen test. Use-by date: The kit provides a minimum usage window of 4 weeks from the point of order. Please return the sample before the use-by date shown on the laboratory request form.

Our Giardia and Cryptosporidium Antigen Test is a combined faecal test for dogs and cats.

Our trained laboratory team uses targeted antigen technology to test the same faecal sample for both Giardia and Cryptosporidium.

The test requires a sample from one animal. Please do not pool faecal samples from different animals.

This combined test can be useful where either Giardia or Cryptosporidium is a concern and provides a convenient alternative to ordering the two antigen tests separately.

Clear laboratory results and free after test advice are included.

Your laboratory report provides the results of both the Giardia and Cryptosporidium antigen tests in one clear, easy to understand document.

Each test examines the submitted faecal sample for specific parasite antigens. These are substances associated with the presence of the respective parasites and can provide useful evidence of gastrointestinal infection.

Giardia Antigen Test

The Giardia antigen test screens for antigens associated with Giardia, a microscopic intestinal protozoan parasite that can cause digestive disturbances, including diarrhoea, soft stools and changes in faecal consistency.

Your report confirms whether Giardia antigen was Detected or Not detected in the submitted sample.

Cryptosporidium Antigen Test

The Cryptosporidium antigen test screens for antigens associated with Cryptosporidium, another microscopic intestinal protozoan parasite that may be associated with gastrointestinal illness, particularly diarrhoea and digestive disturbances.

Your report confirms whether Cryptosporidium antigen was Detected or Not detected in the submitted sample.

Understanding Your Results

Both antigen test results are presented together on one laboratory report, allowing you to review the findings for Giardia and Cryptosporidium in one place.

A detected result indicates that the relevant parasite antigen has been identified in the sample. A not detected result means that the antigen was not identified within the detection limits of the test.

Antigen testing provides qualitative results and does not measure the number of parasites present or determine the severity of an infection.

As parasite shedding and antigen levels can vary, a negative result does not completely exclude infection. Results should be considered alongside your animal’s clinical signs, history and any previous treatment.

Free after test advice is included. Our trained laboratory team reviews the findings and can provide additional guidance to help you understand the results and whether further veterinary assessment may be appropriate.

Turnaround time: Our laboratory team completes and reviews both antigen tests within 24 hours of the sample arriving at our laboratory.

After treatment: Please allow at least 3 weeks after completing treatment before submitting a sample for this test.

Use-by date: Please use the test before the date shown on the laboratory request form. The kit provides a minimum usage window of 4 weeks from the point of order.

Where possible, we provide the longest available use by period. Please return the sample before the published use-by date.

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.

  • Recyclable padded return packaging.
  • Free Tracked 24 return postage.
  • Laboratory request forms and clear collection instructions.
  • Recyclable sample collection box supplied in resealable write on bag.
  • Biodegradable secondary sealable bags.
  • Biodegradable natural wood sampling spoon.

How does it work?

1. Choose and order your test

Select the appropriate parasite test for your animal(s), or use our quick guide to find the most suitable option.

Choose and order your test

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.

2. Send your sample

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.

3. Receive your results
Choose and order your test
2. Send your sample
3. Receive your results
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