Clostridium difficile (often called C. diff) is a type of bacteria that can sometimes cause diarrhea in pets. It makes two harmful substances, called toxins A and B, which can upset the gut and cause illness. The stool test looks for these toxins to help find out if your pet’s diarrhea may be linked to C. Diff. C. diff can spread in the environment and sometimes affect people.
Expected Turnaround Time: 1-2 days
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C. diff can sometimes cause serious diarrhea, especially if your pet has recently been on antibiotics (which can disturb the healthy bacteria in the gut). Some pets carry C. diff without showing signs, but it’s important to know if the toxins are present — because that’s what can make them sick.
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A fresh stool sample from your pet in a sterile/clean container.
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In the event of a positive C. diff toxin test, we advise contacting your vet for treatment options.
