A fecal test checks a small stool sample for intestinal parasites such as roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, Giardia and coccidia. Many of these parasites cause no obvious signs at first, and some can spread to people.
We recommend fecal testing for puppies and kittens, at yearly wellness visits and any time your pet has diarrhea or other digestive upset. If we find parasites, we'll recommend the right treatment and a plan to keep them from coming back.
Signs Your Pet May Have Intestinal Parasites
Some pets with worms or protozoa look perfectly healthy, which is why routine testing matters. Others show signs that are easy to miss or blame on something they ate, a change in food or a stressful week. Young animals, pets that hunt or eat things outdoors, and dogs that spend time at parks or kennels are more likely to pick up parasites. Call us or come in if you notice:
- Diarrhea, soft stool or mucus in the stool
- Vomiting, sometimes with visible worms
- A pot-bellied look, especially in puppies and kittens
- Weight loss or poor growth despite a good appetite
- A dull, dry coat or low energy
- Scooting or licking under the tail
How to Collect a Stool Sample for Your Pet's Fecal Test
A fresh sample gives the most accurate results, because some parasite eggs and cysts break down quickly once stool sits out. Try to collect it within a few hours of your visit and keep it cool in a sealed bag or container. A portion about the size of a sugar cube is usually plenty. For cats, scoop a piece from the litter box with as little litter attached as possible.
In the lab, the sample is mixed with a special solution that helps eggs and cysts float so they can be seen under the microscope. Your vet may also recommend antigen tests that detect parasite proteins, which can catch infections even when eggs aren't being shed that day.
Questions about Fecal Testing?
Call us or book an appointment online, and our team will help you decide on the next step for your pet.
Fecal Testing: Frequently Asked Questions
How often should my dog or cat have a fecal test?
Can my pet have worms even if I don't see any in the stool?
Can people catch parasites from their pets?
If my pet takes a monthly preventive, do they still need a fecal test?
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