Frequently Asked Questions About Our Service

Everything you need to know about Wormcount and our parasite testing service including ordering, sampling, testing and receiving your results.

How do I collect a lungworm sample and how many days does it take?

A lungworm screen requires faecal samples collected over three consecutive days. The first passing of each day should be collected and stored sealed at room temperature – not in the fridge or outside. All three days’ samples are sent together in the prepaid return envelope on the final day of collection. If a day is missed, the collection period must restart.

Can I pool samples from multiple animals in one kit?

Standard Wormcount kits are designed for one animal. Pooling samples from multiple animals dilutes the material from each individual. The calculations extrapolate the information based on a known quantity coming from the animal, so if multiple animals are included it means the volume from the animal is uncontrolled and skews the results and significantly increases the risk of a false negative. If a positive result is returned, it makes it impossible to identify which animal is affected. The only exceptions are puppies or kittens under three weeks old which are treated as a single unit at that age. For livestock, dedicated herd and flock screening kits are available, which calculate the volumes differently.

How should I store lungworm samples while collecting over three days?

Lungworm samples should be stored sealed at room temperature. This means not in the fridge, and not outside if the temperature is below fridge temperature. Samples should be kept away from food and out of reach of children, and should not be left in direct sunlight or where they could be contaminated. All three days’ samples are posted together on the final day of collection.

How long does it take to get worm count results?

Once the sample is received in the laboratory, Wormcount issues results on a same working day turnaround for all worm egg counts, Giardia antigen screens, Cryptosporidium antigen screens, and liver fluke screens. Lungworm screens are issued the following working day due to the extended Baermann process. PCR tests have individual turnaround times detailed on each product page.

How will my results be sent to me?

Results are emailed as a detailed PDF report to the email address provided on the laboratory request form. They are also uploaded to your online portal for you to access at any time. The report includes the results for each parasite tested, expressed as eggs per gram (epg) where applicable, along with an easy to understand key. If results are not received as expected, Wormcount’s team can be contacted at results@wormcount.com; they will be happy to resend a copy.

What does my worm count result mean?

Your worm count result shows which parasite eggs were detected in your animal’s faecal sample and at what level, reported as eggs per gram (epg). Each result sheet includes an easy-to-understand key explaining what the levels indicate. If you are unsure about your results or what action to take, Wormcount’s clinical team provides free aftercare support to help you interpret your results and advise on next steps.

What should I do if my worm count result is positive?

If your result shows a parasite burden, Wormcount’s clinical team can advise on the most appropriate course of action, which may include a prescription for treatment, a referral to your vet (in exceptional circumstances), or a follow-up screen. The team is available for free aftercare advice with every result. Treatment decisions should be based on the specific parasites found, the level of burden, and the individual animal’s circumstances.

What should I do if my worm count result is negative?

A negative result indicates no detectable parasite egg burden at the time of testing. No treatment is required at this time, but regular repeat screening is still recommended to monitor your animal’s parasite status over time. A negative result does not guarantee the animal is entirely parasite-free, just like regular worming can not guarantee this.

Does Wormcount provide aftercare advice with results?

Yes. Free clinical advisory aftercare is included as standard with every result for all direct-access clients. Wormcount’s team of Registered Animal Medicines Advisors (RAMAs) is on hand to discuss results, explain findings, and advise on appropriate next steps. There are no tiers of service and no additional charges for aftercare support.

Is aftercare advice included in the price of the test?

Yes. Free aftercare advice is included in the price of every Wormcount test for all direct-access clients, with no hidden charges or premium tiers. If a result indicates that veterinary intervention or prescription medication is needed, Wormcount will advise accordingly.