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Faecal Dx antigen testing

Interpreting test results and next steps.

Wellness screening

Whether a positive or negative result, this algorithm can guide next steps based on your patient's Faecal Dx antigen testing results.

Use this algorithm

Sick visits

Testing recommendations vary based on the duration and severity of diarrhoea and the health and dietary habits of the pet or pets affected.

Use this algorithm

Interpreting results for 'healthy' dogs and cats.

The following algorithm can help guide your next steps when considering your patient's Faecal Dx antigen testing results.

What to do next?
Convey
Retest
Antigen-positive results
Treat with appropriate dewormer or use monthly parasite control product effective for this parasite.
Review risk factors and proper disposal of faeces.
Retest 10–14 days later and then 1–2 times per year. If animal continues to test positive, revise choice of dewormer and recommend environmental control.
Communicate the success of current preventive measures.

Review possible risks and reinforce year-round protection.
CAPC recommendations: Faecal examinations at least 2 times per year.
Administer year-round, broad-spectrum parasite control with efficacy against heartworm (if recommended in your area), intestinal parasites, fleas, and ticks (if recommended in your area).
Antigen-negative results

Algorithm for faecal screening sick dogs and cats.

Use the following algorithm to rule out infectious diseases by differentiating between acute uncomplicated (mild) and acute severe/chronic diarrhoea and testing accordingly.

Negative
Positive
If poor response to therapy, evaluate for coinfections with diarrhoea PCR
Non-bloody diarrhoea
Bloody diarrhoea
If negative or if diarrhoea persists despite targeted therapy, evaluate for primary or concurrent noninfectious causes. Consider:
  • Dietary trials (high fibre or novel protein/hypoallergenic)
  • Cobalamin (vitman B12), folate, TLI, Spec cPL Test/Spec fPL Test
  • Abdominal ultrasound
  • Endoscopic or surgical intestinal biopsies
Diarrhoea RealPCR Panel with Faecal Dx Profile
SNAP Parvo Test
Complicated diarrhoea
  • Clinically sick pet (lethargy, inappetance)
  • Severe or haemorrhagic diarrhoea
  • Recurrent or persistent diarrhoea
  • Multiple animals affected
Positive on antigen ELISA testing or faecal O&P testing
Treat with targeted therapy
Recommend an ongoing parasite management plan
Negative on both
If diarrhoea persists > 24 hours
Faecal Dx Antigen Profile with Giardia (FAPG)
Diarrhoea RealPCR Panel
Simple diarrhoea
  • Otherwise clinically healthy and bright, alert, and responsive (BAR)
  • Mild diarrhoea < 24 hours in duration
  • Only one pet affected
  • May have history of dietary indiscretion or recent diet change
History, clinical signs, physical examination
  • Collect Faecal specimens prior to treatment
  • Obtain minimum database (complete blood count [CBC], chemistry panel with IDEXX SDMA Test, and complete urinalysis) as appropriate.
  • Begin supportive therapy as indicated while waiting for diagnostic results.
Dog or cat with diarrhoea