Protect your pet and your family: what our parasite data shows (February 2026)
Your pet is part of the family. You want what is best for them — health and a long, happy life. But there is a hidden danger that can threaten their health and yours: parasites.
We recently analysed samples from February 2026 and the results are clear: 7.47% of samples were positive for parasites. This means that 1 in every 13 samples contained a parasite that can harm your pet — and in some cases, people in the household too.
In this article you will learn:
- Which parasites are most common (based on our data)
- How to recognise signs of infection in a dog or cat
- Why faecal examination is key
- How to protect your family (especially children)
- What you can do today
What do our data show?
From analysis of samples in February, the most frequently found parasites were:
1) Cystoisospora (coccidia) — 50% of positive samples
This is the number-one parasite in our findings. Cystoisospora is a microscopic parasite that lives in the intestines of dogs or cats and can cause:
- Diarrhoea (often with blood)
- Loss of appetite
- Weakness and fatigue
- Abdominal pain
- Weight loss
Important: in young animals the symptoms may be more severe and the risk of dehydration greater.
2) Giardia — 8.8% of positive samples
Giardia is a common cause of prolonged or intermittent diarrhoea. The parasite spreads readily in moist environments and can cause:
- Chronic diarrhoea
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Abdominal pain
- Weakness
Risk increases if the dog drinks from puddles or frequents places with many animals.
3) Toxocara — 40% of positive samples
Toxocara (roundworm) is important both for the health of the pet and from a public health perspective within the household. In pets it can cause:
- Diarrhoea
- Loss of appetite
- Bloating
- Weakness
It is particularly important to pay attention to children and hand hygiene after playing outdoors.
Signs of infection
Your pet cannot tell you they are unwell — so pay attention to:
- Diarrhoea (especially if it lasts more than a few days)
- Blood in the stool
- Loss of appetite
- Bloating or abdominal pain
- Weakness and fatigue
- Weight loss
- Dull coat
- Scratching or irritation around the anus
If you notice any of these signs, do not wait — talk to your veterinarian and have an examination done.
Why does regular faecal examination prevent disease?
A common misconception is: "My dog/cat looks healthy — why should I test?"
The problem is that parasites can be present without obvious symptoms.
Regular faecal examination helps to:
- Detect parasites before they cause a problem
- Reduce spread of infection in the household
- Start targeted treatment in good time
Recommended schedule:
- Adult dogs and cats: 2 times per year
- Puppies and kittens (under 1 year): 4 times per year
- After an episode of diarrhoea or illness
- Before introducing a new pet into the home
How to protect your family (practical steps)
1. Faecal examination — take a stool sample to your veterinarian or laboratory.
2. Treatment as recommended by your veterinarian — if the result is positive, therapy must be carried out exactly as prescribed.
3. Hygiene:
- Wash hands after contact with your pet and before eating
- Teach children to wash hands after playing outdoors and with pets
- Regularly clean the area where your pet sleeps
- Do not allow licking of the face
4. Prevention:
- Prevent your pet from drinking from puddles
- Prevent eating the faeces of other animals
- Regularly wash toys and bedding
Diarrhoea profile — detailed analysis in cases of diarrhoea
If your pet has diarrhoea, the cause without testing often remains a "guess".
Diarrhoea can be caused by:
- Parasites
- Bacterial infections
- Viruses
- Stress
- Other conditions
In such cases we therefore recommend the Diarrhoea Profile — a more detailed analysis that helps the veterinarian introduce precise treatment.
What can you do today?
- Collect a stool sample (the size of a hazelnut)
- Take it to your veterinarian or laboratory
- Receive results and, if necessary, begin treatment
Your pet and your family deserve protection — start today.
Conclusion
Our data from February 2026 show that parasites are common and a real risk. The good news is that with regular faecal examinations, timely treatment and good hygiene, the risk is significantly reduced. This article is based on analysis of samples from February 2026 and aims to raise awareness of the importance of regular testing.