Contributors: Kenneth Simpson

 Species: Feline   |   Classification: Lab Tests

Overview Sampling Tests Result Data Further Reading

Overview

  • Examination of feces can be helpful in investigation of gastrointestinal disease
  • Tests performed include:

Uses

Alone

  • Detection of bacterial, viral and parasitic causes of gastroenteritis or diarrhea.

In combination

Sampling

Source of Test Material

  • Rectal sample or freshly voided feces.

Quantity of Test Material

  • 5 g.

Quality Control

Precautions

  • Routine hygiene.

Sample storage

  • Refrigerate if sample is not being mailed immediately.

Sample transport

  • Package according to mailing Regulations .
  • Transport median if required, eg for Salmonella.

Tests

Methodologies

  • Varies with individual test, eg fecal sedimentation, fecal flotation, fecal culture.

Availability

  • Routine.

Technician (Extrinsic) Limitations

  • Experience required varies with test.

Result Data

Abnormal Values

  • Enteritis.
  • Ill thrift.
  • Tracheobronchitis ( Filaroides rostratus) (pulmonary disease) ParagonimusAleurostrongylus.
  • Pruritis ani.
  • Vomiting (kittens) Vomiting.
  • Maldigestion/malabsorbtion.
  • Anemia.

Further Reading

Publications

Refereed papers