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46 results for “PCR test”
How Accurate Are Dog Parvo Test Kits?
Canine parvovirus test kits are generally 80-90% accurate, but results depend on timing of infection, viral load, brand, and technique. In early infection or with low viral load they can show false negatives, and poor storage or handling causes errors, so clinics use them only for initial screening. To confirm parvo, veterinarians combine the kit with PCR, serology, pathology, and clinical signs such as vomiting, diarrhea with blood, fever, and lethargy. Proper use involves collecting a swab sample, applying it to the strip, waiting a few minutes, and reading the result against the instructions.
Canine Ehrlichiosis: What Owners Should Know
Ehrlichiosis is a tick-borne rickettsial disease with acute, subclinical, and chronic stages, and chronic cases can linger for years with vague signs like lethargy, fever, and low platelets that risk bleeding. Because many illnesses look similar, diagnosis leans on bloodwork, urine, imaging, and antibody or PCR tests. This guide walks through the stages and workup.
How do dogs catch parvovirus (parvo)?
Canine parvovirus is a severe, contagious disease caused by the parvovirus. Dogs catch it two ways: directly, by contacting the feces and secretions of an infected animal, or indirectly, through contaminated objects or even transmission via people. Because early signs mimic gastroenteritis, PCR testing is usually needed to confirm.
Is This Canine Distemper?
A weak-positive distemper test alone isn't conclusive — confirm it against your dog's symptoms or a PCR test, then start antiviral and supportive care promptly if positive.
Health Checks to Do After Rescuing a Stray Cat
Before a stray cat joins your home, a veterinary check-up protects the cat, any resident pets, and your family. Strays can carry parasites, skin disease, or hidden infections, so a targeted exam is worth the cost. Core tests include a physical exam, infectious-disease screening (panleukopenia, coronavirus, calicivirus, herpesvirus; add FIV and FeLV if you have other cats), a fecal exam for internal parasites, and a blood count to flag anemia, inflammation, or dehydration. Imaging or a Toxoplasma test may be added for specific risks. To keep costs down, ask clinics about rescue discounts, look for packaged wellness plans, and have the vet handle basic grooming during the visit. Always isolate the new cat for 7–14 days, deflea and deworm, then start vaccines once it has settled in.
What are the symptoms of feline panleukopenia (cat distemper)?
Signs include abdominal pain, lethargy, bloody diarrhea, fever and vomiting. The most acute form damages the intestines and lowers white cells, often killing the cat within 24 hours.
How to Tell If Your Cat Has Feline Rhinotracheitis (Cat Flu)
Cat flu and a common cold look alike, which leaves many owners unsure whether their cat has feline rhinotracheitis — an infection caused by the feline herpesvirus. The reliable approach is twofold: watch the symptoms and confirm with a test. Early signs are subtle — sneezing, a runny nose, watery eyes, low appetite, no fever — while the active phase brings a high temperature near 40°C, persistent coughing and sneezing, and thick eye and nose discharge. A test strip or a PCR check at the clinic confirms it, but the result must be read alongside the symptoms.
Lymphangitis and Lymphadenitis in Dogs and Cats: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention
Lymphangitis and lymphadenitis are inflammations of the lymph vessels and nodes, usually from infection, immune disorders, or tumors. Signs vary by location but center on swelling, pain, and systemic inflammation, and treatment targets the underlying disease.
Canine and Feline Trichomoniasis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention
Trichomoniasis is a protozoal parasite infection of dogs and cats, most often caused by Pentatrichomonas, that produces stubborn, mucoid, sometimes bloody diarrhea. It spreads through contaminated food and water and is managed with antiprotozoal therapy plus supportive care.
Canine and Feline Eperythrozoonosis (Hemotrophic Mycoplasmosis): Symptoms, Transmission, and Treatment
Eperythrozoonosis, also called hemotrophic mycoplasmosis, is a tick- and flea-borne infectious disease of dogs and cats marked by anemia and jaundice. It is treated with tetracycline-class antibiotics and supportive care.