In our previous article, we explored the use of secretion-based diagnostic rapid tests, which are effective tools for detecting respiratory, viral, and bacterial infections in pets. Today, we’ll shift our focus to another crucial aspect of veterinaria diagnostics: feces-based rapid tests. These rapid tests are designed to detect a wide range of gastrointestinal diseases and parasites using fecal samples for self test. This article will introduce the diseases that can be detected with feces-based diagnostic rapid tests, followed by a detailed look at the Canine Coronavirus Ag rapid test (CCV Ag), including its use, procedure, precautions, and limitations.
About Feces-Based rapid tests
Feces-based diagnostic rapid tests play an essential role in identifying gastrointestinal (GI) infections and parasitic infestations in pets. These tests are easy to administer, minimally invasive, and provide quick results, making them ideal for use in clinical settings.
Just like secretion-based tests, feces-based tests offer a valuable tool for early diagnosis, which can lead to prompt treatment and better health outcomes for the animal. Since many gastrointestinal diseases manifest through symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, and weight loss, identifying the cause early can be critical in preventing further complications.
Diseases Detectable with Feces-Based Diagnostic rapid tests
Feces-based rapid tests are effective in detecting a wide range of diseases, particularly those that affect the digestive tract. Here are some common conditions and pathogens that can be diagnosed using fecal samples:
Canine Parvovirus (CPV): A life-threatening viral disease that is highly contagious and affects a dog’s gastrointestinal system, especially in puppies.
Canine Coronavirus (CCV): Another viral disease affecting the GI system, leading to diarrhea, vomiting, and lethargy.
Giardiasis: A parasitic infection caused by Giardia, which can infect both dogs and cats, leading to chronic diarrhea and weight loss.
Each of these diseases can be detected early through the use of feces-based diagnostic rapid tests. Today, we will focus specifically on the Canine Coronavirus Antigen Rapid Test (CCV Ag), a tool used to detect Canine Coronavirus in fecal samples.
Canine Coronavirus (CCV): Causes and Symptoms
Canine Coronavirus (CCV) is a viral disease that primarily affects a dog’s gastrointestinal tract. While it is often less severe than Canine Parvovirus, it is highly contagious, particularly in environments where dogs are kept in close quarters, such as kennels or shelters.
Causes of CCV:
Transmission: The virus is primarily spread through the fecal-oral route. Dogs contract the virus by coming into contact with the feces of an infected dog, either directly or indirectly through contaminated surfaces, food, or water.
Vulnerability: Puppies and immunocompromised dogs are more susceptible to CCV, although it can affect dogs of any age. Overcrowded or unsanitary environments increase the risk of transmission.
Symptoms of CCV:
Diarrhea: The most common symptom of CCV is sudden onset diarrhea, often with an orange or yellow tint. In more severe cases, blood may be present in the stool.
Vomiting: Some dogs experience vomiting, which contributes to dehydration.
Lethargy: Affected dogs may show signs of weakness, fatigue, and reluctance to eat.
Dehydration: Due to excessive diarrhea and vomiting, dogs can quickly become dehydrated if the disease is not managed promptly.
While the disease is often self-limiting in healthy adult dogs, it can be more dangerous for puppies and dogs with weakened immune systems. Early detection using the CCV Ag rapid test can help veterinarians begin treatment before the disease becomes severe. Now, let’s explore the step-by-step procedure for using this pet test kit.
CCV Ag rapid test instructions
The CCV Ag rapid test is a simple, yet powerful tool for detecting Canine Coronavirus in dogs using fecal samples. Here’s how to use the rapid test in three easy steps:
Step 1: Check the Kit Contents Before Use
Check the product contents and make sure the test operation is under the room temperature (15–30 ℃) before testing.
The kit contents include a test device, a swab, a extraction tube with buffer, a package insert and a workstation.
Step 2: Coronavirus Test Procedure
Unseal the extraction tube containing the buffer.
Place the extraction tube in the workstation.
Use the swab to collect secretions specimen from canine/feline feces or fecal sample from its rectum.Put the swab into the buffer.
Rotate the swab more than 10 times.
Close the cap of the buffer tube.
Take the test device out of the aluminum foil bag, and place it on a clean and flat table. Add three drops (about 90 μl) of specimen(mixed sample) vertically into the specimen well (S) of the test device.
Step 3: Interpretation of Test Result
Read the result at 5-10 minutes. The result is invalid after 15 minutes.
Positive (+): The presence of both C line and T line, regardless of T line being strong or faint.
Negative (-): Only clear C line appears.
Invalid: No colored line appears in C region, regardless of T line’s appearance.
Warnings, Precautions and Safety
1.Thetest device is used for canine only.
2.The results may be influenced by Humidity and Temperature.
3.Make sure that the foil pouch containing the test is not damaged before open. Perform the test immediately when the pouch package is opened.
4.Do not reuse the test components.
5.Do not use after the expiry date.
6.Do not mix product components in different lot numbers
Limitations of the Test Kits
While the CCV Ag test kit is highly useful for quick, in-office testing, there are certain limitations to be aware of:
Although the coronavirus test kit is very accurate in detecting canine Coronavirus antigen, a low incidence of false results may be occurred. Other clinically or laboratory tests might be required if questionable results are obtained. As other diagnostic tests, a definitive clinical diagnosis should not be based on the result of a single test, but should be diagnosed by the veterinarian after all clinical and laboratory findings have been evaluated.
Conclusion
Feces-based diagnostic rapid tests, like the Canine Coronavirus Ag rapid test (CCV Ag), are indispensable tools for early detection of gastrointestinal diseases in dogs. Their ease of use and ability to provide quick results make them a valuable addition to veterinary clinics and home testing. However, it is crucial to use these rapid tests correctly, follow the recommended procedures, and be aware of their limitations. By doing so, veterinarians and pet owners can improve diagnostic accuracy, ensure timely treatment, and ultimately enhance the health and well-being of their canine patients.
Antigenne is committed to helping pet health management through innovative technology, and the coronavirus test is an outstanding product of the company in the field of rapid diagnosis of canine intestinal diseases. For more information on purchasing the Canine Coronavirus Ag rapid test (CCV Ag), visit our website or contact our customer service team. Ensure your pet’s health with Antigenne’s advanced diagnostic solutions.