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Everything you need to know about Wormcount and our parasite testing service including ordering, sampling, testing and receiving your results.
A worm count is a laboratory test that analyses a sample of an animal’s faeces to identify and quantify the eggs of internal parasites present in the gut. The results are reported as eggs per gram (epg) of faeces, giving an indication of the adult worm burden within the animal at the time of sampling. Regular worm counts allow owners to make informed, evidence-based decisions about whether treatment is needed.
A faecal egg count (FEC) is a laboratory test that examines a faecal sample under microscopy to detect and quantify parasite eggs. A trained analyst prepares the sample using a flotation method, identifies each species of egg present, and reports the result as eggs per gram (epg) of faeces. It is widely recommended by veterinary bodies including the BVA as the foundation of responsible parasite control.
A worm count is a diagnostic test that identifies whether parasites are present and at what level, whilst a worming tablet is a chemical treatment used to kill worms. A worm count tells you whether treatment is needed; a worming tablet delivers the treatment itself. Using a worm count before treating means treatment is only given when the evidence supports it, reducing unnecessary chemical use and helping to slow anthelmintic resistance.
A standard worm egg count detects the eggs of common intestinal parasites including roundworms (ascarids), hookworms, whipworms, tapeworm segments, and threadworms. Wormcount’s screens also detect coccidia, excess lipids, and microscopic food and fibre as standard. Lungworm larvae and protozoal parasites such as Giardia require separate, dedicated tests.
A worm count result tells you which species of parasite eggs are present in your animal’s faeces and at what level, expressed as eggs per gram (epg). This gives an indication of the current adult worm burden within the animal. The result is used to decide whether treatment is necessary, which treatment is most appropriate, and whether an existing worming programme is working effectively.
Eggs per gram (epg) is the unit used to report worm count results, indicating the number of parasite eggs found per gram of faecal material tested. A higher epg suggests a greater number of adult egg-laying worms present in the gut. Each result sheet includes an easy to understand key explaining what the epg levels mean and what action, if any, may be appropriate.
Yes. A worm count, worm test, and faecal egg count (FEC) all refer to the same type of laboratory analysis. All three terms describe the process of examining a faecal sample to identify and quantify parasite eggs. Different terms are used in different contexts, but the underlying test is the same.
A worm count uses microscopy to identify and count parasite eggs in a faecal sample, whilst a PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test detects the DNA of specific pathogens with a high degree of sensitivity and species-level precision. PCR tests are used when a more targeted investigation is needed for example, to confirm the presence of a specific pathogen such as Giardia, Campylobacter, or Toxoplasma gondii. Wormcount offers both worm egg count and PCR-based tests depending on the clinical need.
An antigen test detects the immune response, rather than identifying eggs or cysts under the microscope. Wormcount uses antigen detection for first level Giardia and Cryptosporidium screens, as this method is more accurate than cyst identification and provides greater sensitivity and specificity. Antigen tests are particularly useful for parasites that shed cysts intermittently.
A standard worm egg count detects most common intestinal worms but cannot detect all parasites. Lungworm, for example, requires a dedicated larval detection screen rather than a standard egg count. Tapeworms are intermittent shedders and if they were not shedding at the time of the sample being taken, they will not be present in the material submitted to the lab. For comprehensive parasite screening, Wormcount offers combination tests that cover multiple parasite types.
