Dog fecal examination – why, when and how to perform it?

Stool testing is one of the basic diagnostic tools in the prevention of a dog’s health. Although it may seem unpleasant, it provides valuable information about the presence of intestinal parasites such as roundworms, tapeworms, coccidia or Giardia (giardia). We can also detect the presence of other pathogens that cause diarrhea or other symptoms related to the malfunction of the digestive system.

Why is it worth testing your dog’s feces?
Many intestinal parasites do not give visible symptoms for a long time. A dog may look healthy, but be a carrier of parasites. Regular check-ups allow you to detect the threat before serious health problems occur – diarrhea, weight loss or anemia. It is especially important to test puppies, dogs from adoption and those that have contact with other animals or spend a lot of time outside.

It should be remembered that prophylactic administration of commonly available antiparasitic tablets is not good for the dog’s health and does not work against many parasites, e.g. transmitted by birds.

How do I get a sample?

Take a fresh stool sample and take it to your doctor, preferably within 6-12 hours of having a bowel movement. The amount does not have to be large – a portion the size of a sugar cube is enough. Use a clean container (e.g., a sterile container from the pharmacy or an airtight pouch). Avoid soil or grass contamination – they can distort the test result.

How to store the sample?

If the sample is to be delivered to the clinic within a few hours, it should be stored in a cool place – in the refrigerator, but never freeze the sample! Low temperatures can destroy the structures of the parasites and make it impossible to identify them.

After several hours, the sample should be in the laboratory.

How often should I get tested?

Specialists recommend a stool test at least once a year, and in puppies even every few weeks in the first months of life. Optimally, do this as many times as you think your dog may have been in contact with parasites.

Regular stool testing is a simple way to protect the health of your dog and household members – especially since some parasites can also be dangerous to humans. Take care of your pet comprehensively – also from the inside!

Cat fecal examination

For an outdoor cat, follow the rules as for a dog described above. Likewise, if you have more animals and some may come into contact with pathogens.