# Fecal Flotation and PCR Testing in Pets: Detecting Giardia, Hookworms and Coccidia ## Key Takeaways - Fecal flotation, a microscopic method, is a cost-effective initial screening tool for parasite eggs and cysts, but its sensitivity is limited by intermittent shedding and technician skill. - PCR testing offers superior sensitivity and species-level identification by detecting parasite DNA, making it crucial for persistent gastrointestinal signs and zoonotic risk assessment, particularly for Giardia assemblages A and B. - Combining centrifugal fecal flotation with PCR testing provides the most comprehensive diagnostic picture, especially for pets exhibiting chronic or severe gastrointestinal symptoms, as a single test may miss an infection. - Giardia diagnosis can be enhanced by using coproantigen ELISA tests, which are more sensitive than flotation, and PCR for definitive assemblage identification and zoonotic potential assessment. - Hookworm infections are typically diagnosed effectively with centrifugal fecal flotation due to the ease of identifying their characteristic eggs, with PCR reserved for cases where flotation is negative but suspicion remains high. - Coccidia oocysts are readily identifiable via fecal flotation, but PCR can provide species-level differentiation, which is beneficial as pathogenicity varies among coccidia species. --- When your [dog](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/clinical-methods/dog) or [cat](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/clinical-methods/cat) has diarrhea, weight loss, or a dull coat, [intestinal parasites](/knowledge/parasites/pet-parasites/intestinal-parasites-dogs-cats-identification-treatment) are often the first concern. The most reliable way to identify these infections is through fecal testing. Two main methods dominate modern veterinary diagnostics: fecal flotation and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing. Fecal flotation uses a microscope to find parasite eggs and cysts. PCR testing detects the DNA of parasites, offering higher sensitivity and species-level detail. This article explains how both tests work, what they detect, and how they compare for diagnosing Giardia, hookworms, and coccidia. For pet owners, the key takeaway is simple: a single fecal test can miss an infection. Combining flotation with PCR gives the most complete picture, especially for pets with persistent gastrointestinal signs. If your pet has diarrhea that lasts more than two days, contains blood, or is accompanied by vomiting or lethargy, contact your veterinarian immediately. This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis or treatment. ## Understanding the Target Parasites Before comparing tests, it helps to understand the three main parasite groups they detect. ### Giardia duodenalis Giardia is a microscopic, flagellated protozoan that lives in the small intestine. It is one of the most common parasites found in pets. A 2023 study of over 15,000 feline fecal samples in the United States found Giardia in 4.82% of samples, making it the most frequently detected parasite in cats [1]. In dogs, prevalence can be much higher. A decade-long study from a Spanish reference laboratory found Giardia in 16.0% of canine fecal samples [2]. Giardia exists in several genetic groups called assemblages. Dogs and cats typically carry assemblages C, D, F, and G, which do not cause disease in humans. However, assemblages A and B can infect people, making Giardia a zoonotic concern [3]. Accurate detection matters not just for the pet's health but also for family safety. ### Hookworms (Ancylostoma and Uncinaria) Hookworms are blood-feeding intestinal nematodes. They are less common than Giardia but still significant. The same 2023 US feline study found Ancylostoma species in 0.61% of cats [1]. A study of free-roaming cats in New York City found a much higher prevalence of 13.8% [4]. Hookworm infections can cause anemia, especially in young puppies and kittens. ### Coccidia (Cystoisospora and Others) Coccidia are single-celled protozoa that infect the intestinal lining. The most common type in pets is Cystoisospora. The 2023 US feline study found Cystoisospora in 3.40% of cats [1]. In the Spanish study, Cystoisospora was the most common parasite in cats at 7.8% [2]. Coccidia infections are particularly common in young animals and can cause severe watery diarrhea. ## Fecal Flotation: The Microscopic Standard Fecal flotation is the traditional cornerstone of parasite diagnosis. It works on a simple principle: parasite eggs and cysts have a specific density. When mixed with a solution of higher specific gravity, they float to the surface. A coverslip placed on top collects them for microscopic examination. ### How Flotation Works There are two main flotation methods: passive and centrifugal. In passive flotation, the fecal sample is mixed with flotation solution and left to sit. Eggs rise to the surface over time. In centrifugal flotation, the sample is spun in a centrifuge, which forces eggs to the surface more efficiently. Centrifugal flotation is more sensitive than passive methods. A 2026 study compared four fecal diagnostic methods for detecting [Echinococcus multilocularis](/knowledge/parasites/pet-parasites/echinococcus-multilocularis-dogs-foxes-alveolar-echinococcosis-zoonosis) eggs, a tapeworm species. The study found that centrifugal flotation had the lowest detection limit, detecting eggs at concentrations as low as 10 eggs per gram in 20% of replicates [5]. This means centrifugal flotation can find very light infections that passive methods might miss. ### Advantages and Limitations Fecal flotation is inexpensive, fast, and does not require specialized equipment beyond a centrifuge and microscope. It can detect a wide range of parasites in a single test, including roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, tapeworms, Giardia cysts, and coccidia oocysts. However, flotation has significant limitations. Sensitivity depends on the skill of the person reading the slide. Parasite shedding is intermittent, meaning a single sample might not contain eggs even if the pet is infected. Some parasites, like Giardia, are fragile and can be missed if the sample is not fresh. The study on Echinococcus detection noted that while centrifugal flotation had the lowest detection limit, mean egg recovery was low [5]. This means even when eggs are detected, the test may not find all of them. ### The Role of Flotation in Modern Practice Despite its limitations, fecal flotation remains essential. It is the only method that provides a visual confirmation of parasite stages. It can detect parasites that PCR panels might not include. Many veterinary guidelines, including those from the Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC), recommend fecal flotation as a routine screening tool. In the US feline study, all samples were processed using centrifugal fecal flotation as part of the diagnostic battery [1]. The New York City cat study also relied on centrifugal flotation as a primary detection method [4]. ## PCR Testing: Molecular Precision Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing detects the genetic material of parasites. It is a molecular technique that amplifies specific DNA sequences, making even tiny amounts of parasite DNA detectable. ### How PCR Works A fecal sample is processed to extract DNA. Specific primers, which are short DNA sequences, are designed to bind to target parasite genes. If the parasite DNA is present, the PCR reaction amplifies it, producing millions of copies. This amplified DNA is then detected, confirming the presence of the parasite. PCR can be highly specific. For example, a multiplex PCR assay was developed to distinguish between three ascaridoid nematodes: [Toxocara canis](/knowledge/parasites/pet-parasites/toxocara-canis-roundworm-dogs-puppies-visceral-larva-migrans-human), Toxocara cati, and Toxascaris leonina. This assay had a detection limit of 10² copies per microliter for a single parasite and 10³ copies per microliter for simultaneous detection of all three [6]. This level of specificity is impossible with microscopy alone. ### Advantages of PCR PCR offers several key advantages over flotation: 1. **Higher sensitivity**: PCR can detect infections with very low parasite numbers. The KeyScreen GI PCR Parasite panel, for example, could detect Echinococcus eggs at concentrations of 60 eggs per gram consistently [5]. 2. **Species-level identification**: PCR can distinguish between parasite species that look identical under a microscope. This is critical for zoonotic parasites. The beta-giardin quantitative PCR (bg-qPCR) assay was developed specifically to detect zoonotic Giardia assemblages A and B [3]. 3. **No reliance on egg shedding**: PCR detects DNA, not just eggs. This means it can identify infections even when the parasite is not actively shedding eggs or cysts. 4. **Simultaneous detection**: Many PCR panels can test for multiple parasites at once. A study in Portugal used nested PCR targeting multiple genes to detect and genotype Cryptosporidium and Giardia in animal samples [7]. A separate study described an integrated PCR system for simultaneous detection of Cryptosporidium, Enterocytozoon bieneusi, Blastocystis, and Giardia [8]. ### Limitations of PCR PCR is not perfect. It is more expensive than flotation. It requires specialized laboratory equipment and trained personnel. Results take longer, often 24 to 48 hours. PCR cannot distinguish between live and dead parasites, so a positive result might reflect a past infection that has been cleared. Additionally, PCR panels are limited to the parasites they are designed to detect. If a pet has a parasite not included in the panel, the test will miss it. The study comparing diagnostic methods noted that KeyScreen PCR detected eggs consistently at 60 eggs per gram, but it did not detect lower concentrations as effectively as centrifugal flotation [5]. This suggests that PCR is not always more sensitive than flotation, especially for very light infections. ## Comparing Flotation and PCR: A Clinical Perspective Both tests have strengths and weaknesses. The choice depends on the clinical situation, the parasites suspected, and the resources available. ### At a Glance: Flotation vs. PCR | Feature | Fecal Flotation | PCR Testing | |-----|---------|-------| | **Method** | Microscopic detection of eggs and cysts | DNA amplification and detection | | **Sensitivity** | Moderate; depends on egg shedding and technician skill | High; detects DNA even with low parasite numbers | | **Specificity** | Limited; many eggs look similar | High; can distinguish species and genotypes | | **Speed** | Results in 15-30 minutes | Results in 24-48 hours | | **Cost** | Low | Higher | | **Equipment** | Centrifuge, microscope, flotation solution | PCR thermocycler, DNA extraction kit | | **Parasite range** | Broad; detects anything visible under microscope | Limited to parasites in the panel | | **Zoonotic typing** | Not possible | Possible for some parasites (e.g., Giardia assemblages) | | **Best use** | Routine screening, low-cost assessment | Persistent diarrhea, suspected zoonotic infection, species confirmation | ### When to Use Each Test For routine annual screening, fecal flotation is often sufficient. It is cost-effective and can detect most common parasites. The 2023 US feline study used centrifugal flotation as the primary screening tool and found a 13.52% overall parasite prevalence [1]. This demonstrates that flotation alone can identify a substantial number of infections. For pets with persistent diarrhea that does not respond to treatment, PCR is the better choice. The higher sensitivity of PCR can detect infections that flotation misses. A study on Giardia detection compared a beta-giardin quantitative PCR to standard multilocus genotyping. Both methods identified the same number of positive samples, but the PCR was faster and more practical for clinical use [3]. For suspected zoonotic infections, PCR is essential. Standard flotation cannot distinguish between zoonotic and non-zoonotic Giardia assemblages. The bg-qPCR assay was specifically designed for this purpose [3]. Similarly, the KeyScreen PCR panel can distinguish Echinococcus species from Taenia species, which is critical in areas where Echinococcus is emerging [5]. ## Detecting Giardia: Flotation, Antigen Tests, and PCR Giardia presents unique diagnostic challenges. The cysts are small, fragile, and shed intermittently. A single fecal sample may not contain cysts even in an infected pet. ### Flotation for Giardia Centrifugal flotation with a high-specific-gravity solution can detect Giardia cysts. However, sensitivity is limited. The cysts are easily distorted by hypertonic solutions, and they do not float as reliably as helminth eggs. The US feline study used centrifugal flotation and found Giardia in 4.82% of cats [1]. This likely underestimates the true prevalence because of the limitations of flotation. ### Antigen Tests Coproantigen enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) tests detect Giardia antigens in feces. These tests are more sensitive than flotation because they do not rely on cyst detection. The US feline study used coproantigen ELISA as part of its diagnostic battery [1]. The New York City cat study also used coproantigen testing and found Giardia in 11.6% of cats, a higher rate than flotation alone [4]. ### PCR for Giardia PCR is the most sensitive method for Giardia detection. It can detect DNA from both cysts and trophozoites. More importantly, it can identify the assemblage, which determines zoonotic potential. The bg-qPCR assay was developed to detect zoonotic assemblages A and B specifically. In a study of 140 samples, the bg-qPCR identified the same number of positives as multilocus genotyping, but with faster turnaround [3]. A study from Ireland characterized Giardia assemblages from clinical cases using multilocus genotyping. They found assemblages A through F, with assemblages C and D in canines and assemblage E in ruminants and other hosts [9]. This level of detail is only possible with molecular testing. ### Practical Approach For a pet with diarrhea, a reasonable diagnostic approach is: 1. Start with centrifugal flotation to screen for all parasites. 2. If Giardia is suspected and flotation is negative, run a coproantigen ELISA or PCR. 3. If zoonotic risk is a concern, use PCR to determine the assemblage. ## Detecting Hookworms: Eggs and DNA Hookworm infections are typically diagnosed by finding eggs in fecal samples. The eggs are thin-shelled and contain a segmented embryo. They are relatively easy to identify under a microscope. ### Flotation for Hookworms Centrifugal flotation is effective for hookworm eggs. The eggs have a specific gravity that allows them to float in standard solutions. The US feline study found Ancylostoma in 0.61% of cats using centrifugal flotation [1]. The New York City study found a much higher prevalence of 13.8% in free-roaming cats [4]. ### PCR for Hookworms PCR can detect hookworm DNA with high sensitivity. However, it is less commonly used for hookworms than for Giardia because the eggs are relatively easy to find with flotation. PCR becomes valuable when flotation is negative but hookworm infection is still suspected, such as in pets with unexplained anemia. The multiplex PCR assay for ascaridoids [6] demonstrates the potential for molecular detection of nematodes. Similar assays could be developed for hookworms, though they are not yet standard practice. ### Practical Approach For hookworms, fecal flotation is usually sufficient. It is sensitive, fast, and inexpensive. PCR is reserved for cases where flotation is negative but clinical signs strongly suggest hookworm infection. ## Detecting Coccidia: Oocysts and Molecular Confirmation Coccidia are common in young pets and can cause significant diarrhea. The oocysts are small and can be challenging to identify under a microscope. ### Flotation for Coccidia Coccidia oocysts float well in standard flotation solutions. They are relatively easy to identify because of their distinctive shape and size. The US feline study found Cystoisospora in 3.40% of cats using centrifugal flotation [1]. The Spanish study found Cystoisospora in 7.8% of cats [2]. ### PCR for Coccidia PCR can detect coccidia DNA and distinguish between different species. This is important because some coccidia species are more pathogenic than others. The integrated PCR system described in one study could detect Cystoisospora along with other zoonotic parasites [8]. ### Practical Approach For coccidia, flotation is usually sufficient for diagnosis. PCR is helpful when species-level identification is needed or when flotation is negative but coccidiosis is strongly suspected. ## The Role of Quantitative Methods Traditional flotation is qualitative: it tells you if parasites are present but not how many. Quantitative methods provide a more complete picture. ### Mini-FLOTAC Mini-FLOTAC is a quantitative flotation technique that uses a specialized counting chamber. The study comparing diagnostic methods found that Mini-FLOTAC demonstrated the highest mean egg recovery and overall accuracy among quantitative methods [5]. It is practical for veterinary offices, particularly where centrifugation is unavailable. ### Quantitative PCR (qPCR) Quantitative PCR measures the amount of parasite DNA in a sample. This can provide an estimate of infection intensity. The bg-qPCR assay for Giardia is an example of this approach [3]. Quantitative results can help guide treatment decisions and monitor response to therapy. ### Sugar Flotation Systems A novel quantitative sugar-flotation system (QUSIC) was developed for Cryptosporidium parvum oocysts. The study found that a sucrose solution with a specific gravity of 1.234 provided the highest oocyst recovery at 95.2%. Recovery peaked at 60 minutes of flotation time [10]. This demonstrates the importance of optimizing flotation conditions for different parasites. ## Zoonotic Considerations Many parasites of pets can infect humans. Understanding zoonotic risk is a key reason for accurate diagnosis. ### Giardia Zoonosis Giardia assemblages A and B can infect humans. The bg-qPCR assay was developed to detect these zoonotic assemblages specifically [3]. The Irish study found assemblage E, typically associated with ruminants, across most host species including dogs and cats [9]. This suggests that cross-species transmission may be more common than previously thought. ### Hookworm Zoonosis Hookworms can cause cutaneous larva migrans in humans. The larvae penetrate the skin and cause itchy, winding tracks. Children playing in contaminated soil are at highest risk. ### Coccidia Zoonosis Most Cystoisospora species are host-specific and do not infect humans. However, Cryptosporidium, which is related to coccidia, is a significant zoonotic pathogen. A study in Portugal found Cryptosporidium in 1.4% of animal samples and Giardia in 12.5% [7]. The study emphasized the One Health implications of these infections. ### Toxocara Zoonosis While not a primary focus of this article, Toxocara species are important zoonotic parasites. The multiplex PCR assay for Toxocara canis, Toxocara cati, and Toxascaris leonina has potential applications in source tracing of human toxocariasis [6]. The New York City study found Toxocara in 54% of free-roaming cats, highlighting the zoonotic risk in urban environments [4]. ## Regional Variations in Parasite Prevalence Parasite prevalence varies by geography, climate, and pet lifestyle. ### North America The US feline study found Giardia as the most common parasite at 4.82%, followed by Toxocara cati at 4.75% and Cystoisospora at 3.40% [1]. The New York City study found much higher prevalence in free-roaming cats, with Toxocara at 54% and hookworms at 13.8% [4]. This difference highlights the impact of lifestyle on parasite risk. ### Europe The Spanish study found Giardia in 16.0% of dogs and Cystoisospora in 7.8% of cats [2]. The Irish study characterized Giardia assemblages in clinical cases, finding a diverse range of assemblages across host species [9]. The Portuguese study found Giardia in 12.5% of animal samples [7]. ### Other Regions A study in Egypt focused on antimicrobial resistance in Enterobacterales from pets, highlighting the growing concern of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in companion animals [11]. While not directly about parasites, this study underscores the importance of comprehensive diagnostic testing in veterinary medicine. ## At-Home Diagnostics: What Owners Should Know The category for this article is "at-home-diagnostics." This refers to the growing interest in home-based testing for pets. However, fecal flotation and PCR testing are laboratory procedures that require specialized equipment and expertise. ### Can Owners Collect Fecal Samples at Home? Yes, owners can and should collect fecal samples at home. The key is to collect a fresh sample and bring it to the veterinarian promptly. The sample should be collected in a clean, sealed container. It should be kept cool but not frozen. Ideally, the sample should be less than 12 hours old. ### Are At-Home Fecal Test Kits Reliable? Some companies offer at-home fecal test kits where owners collect a sample and mail it to a laboratory. These kits can be useful for routine screening. However, they are not a substitute for veterinary examination. If your pet has diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, or other signs of illness, you should contact your veterinarian directly. ### The Importance of Veterinary Oversight Fecal testing is only one part of a complete veterinary examination. Your veterinarian will consider your pet's history, clinical signs, and other diagnostic tests. They will also recommend appropriate treatment based on the specific parasite identified. Self-diagnosis and self-treatment can be dangerous, especially for zoonotic parasites. ## Evidence-Based Management and Treatment Treatment for intestinal parasites depends on the specific parasite identified. ### Giardia Treatment Giardia infections are typically treated with antiprotozoal drugs. The choice of drug depends on the clinical situation and the parasite assemblage. Pets with zoonotic assemblages may require more aggressive treatment to reduce transmission risk. The bg-qPCR assay can help guide treatment decisions by identifying zoonotic assemblages [3]. ### Hookworm Treatment Hookworm infections are treated with anthelmintic drugs. Treatment is usually repeated to cover the parasite's life cycle. In severe cases, supportive care including fluids and blood transfusions may be needed. ### Coccidia Treatment Coccidia infections are treated with anticoccidial drugs. Treatment is often combined with supportive care, including fluid therapy and nutritional support. Young animals may require hospitalization if dehydration is severe. ### Prevention Prevention is always better than treatment. Routine fecal testing, regular deworming, and good hygiene can prevent most parasite infections. The Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC) recommends annual fecal testing for adult pets and more frequent testing for puppies and kittens. ## Limitations and When to Contact a Veterinarian This article provides general information about fecal flotation and PCR testing. It cannot predict the specific parasites affecting your pet or the best treatment for your pet's condition. Breed-level information cannot predict individual responses to infection or treatment. Contact your veterinarian immediately if your pet shows any of the following signs: - Diarrhea lasting more than 48 hours - Blood in the stool - Vomiting - Lethargy or weakness - Loss of appetite - Weight loss - Pale gums (possible anemia) - Visible worms in the stool or vomit These signs can indicate a serious infection that requires prompt veterinary attention. Early diagnosis and treatment improve outcomes and reduce the risk of zoonotic transmission. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### 1. What is the difference between fecal flotation and PCR testing? Fecal flotation uses a microscope to find parasite eggs and cysts in a fecal sample. PCR testing detects parasite DNA, offering higher sensitivity and the ability to distinguish between species and genotypes. Flotation is faster and cheaper, while PCR is more precise and can detect infections that flotation misses. ### 2. Can a single fecal sample detect all parasites? No, a single fecal sample can miss parasites. Parasite shedding is intermittent, and some parasites are more difficult to detect than others. Combining flotation with PCR increases the chance of finding an infection. ### 3. How often should my pet have a fecal test? Most veterinary guidelines recommend annual fecal testing for adult pets. Puppies and kittens may need more frequent testing because they are more susceptible to parasite infections. Pets with diarrhea or other gastrointestinal signs should be tested immediately. ### 4. Is Giardia contagious to humans? Some Giardia assemblages can infect humans. Assemblages A and B are zoonotic, while assemblages C, D, F, and G typically only infect dogs and cats. PCR testing can determine the assemblage and assess zoonotic risk [3]. ### 5. Can hookworms infect humans? Yes, hookworm larvae can penetrate human skin, causing a condition called cutaneous larva migrans. This is most common in children who play in soil contaminated with pet feces. ### 6. What are the signs of coccidia infection in pets? Coccidia infections typically cause watery diarrhea, which can be severe in young animals. Other signs include vomiting, loss of appetite, and weight loss. Some pets may not show any signs despite being infected. ### 7. How long does it take to get PCR results? PCR results typically take 24 to 48 hours, depending on the laboratory. Fecal flotation results can be available within 15 to 30 minutes. ### 8. Can I test my pet's feces at home? You can collect a fecal sample at home and bring it to your veterinarian. Some at-home test kits are available, but they are not a substitute for veterinary examination. If your pet is sick, contact your veterinarian directly. ## Sources [1] [Prevalence and epidemiologic patterns of feline parasitism detected by fecal examination in the United States, 2023.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42184502/) [2] [Intestinal parasite prevalences in dogs and cats: a decade of retrospective data from a reference veterinary laboratory in Madrid, Spain.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41408311/) [3] [Comparison of multilocus genotyping and a commercial beta-giardin qPCR assay for detection of Giardia duodenalis zoonotic assemblages in cat and dog samples.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41952221/) [4] [Zoonotic endoparasites and Toxoplasma gondii seropositivity in free-roaming cats (Felis catus) from New York City boroughs.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42418442/) [5] [Fecal floatation and KeyScreen polymerase chain reaction optimize Echinococcus multilocularis detection in canine feces for veterinary practice and zoonotic surveillance.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42442409/) [6] [Development of a novel multiplex PCR assay for the specific identification of Toxocara canis, Toxocara cati and Toxascaris leonine in dogs and cats.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41747541/) [7] [Occurrence and Diversity of Cryptosporidium spp. and Giardia duodenalis in Animals in Portugal: Novel Data and Public Health Implications.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42464509/) [8] [Integrated PCR-Based Molecular Detection System for the Simultaneous Detection of Four Zoonotic Intestinal Parasites from Multiple Sources.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41248104/) [9] [Characterisation of Giardia duodenalis assemblages from veterinary clinical cases in Ireland.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42485862/) [10] [Quantitative sugar-flotation in a cover-slide system for quantifying Cryptosporidium parvum oocysts in feces: optimizing specific gravity, floating time, and counting strategies.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42173423/) [11] [Occurrence of ESBL and carbapenemase producers and polymyxin- and fosfomycin-resistant Enterobacterales among pets in a veterinary clinic, Egypt.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41565018/) [12] [Zoonotic potential of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolated from pets and their owners in Bangladesh.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41130984/) [13] [Contamination With Antimicrobial-Resistant Escherichia coli, Salmonella, and Enterococcus in Raw Meat-Based Diets for Pets.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40652560/) [14] [Lateral Flow Strip-Compatible Nucleic Acid Testing for Facile Diagnosis of Infectious Pet Diseases.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41489062/) [15] [A quadruplex real-time fluorescent quantitative PCR detection method for identification and serotyping of Pasteurella multocida.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40639696/) [16] [Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus pseudintermedius isolated from humans and pets - a comparison of drug resistance and risk factors associated with colonisation.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40568467/)

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