Giardiasis is a disease caused by the unicellular parasite Giardia lamblia (also known as duodenalis/intestinalis). Infection with pathogen cysts by oral absorption mainly takes place following environmental contamination with faeces and reinfection during grooming. The protozoan Cryptosporidium parvum is an enteric parasite, the infection is normally transmitted orally. Giardia infections are often asymptomatic in dogs and cats, though persistent and intermittent diarrhoea with light-coloured, foul-smelling faeces with mucus and blood admixtures can occur -especially in puppies, kittens and other young animals. Vomiting occurs less frequently. A loss of appetite and emaciation can happen in acute- to chronic cases. As with giardiasis, Cryptosporidium parvum infection can lead not only to insufficient digestion, but also to abdominal pain, vomiting and fever. In immunosuppressed animals in particular, or in puppies and kittens, potentially fatal diarhhoea can occur. The test is suitable for the early detection of suspected Giardia lamblia and Cryptosporidium parvum or in the case of clinical symptoms. Considering that the excretion is irregular and can also stop intermittently, repeated testing is recommended. At least three examinations of faecal samples over a period of about 4 to 10 days should be carried out.If in doubt, make an appointment with your vet immediately. If the rapid test shows a positive result, please take the test and faecal sample with you to the vet.
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