We get it, poop samples stink! While they may not be the most pleasant topic, stool samples are essential to ensuring your pet stays healthy. Stool samples test for internal parasites such as tapeworms, hookworms, roundworms, whipworms, and giardia. These parasites can cause diarrhea, inflammation, anemia, and dehydration. Many of these are zoonotic, meaning they can be transmitted to human family members. Because these parasites are internal, pets often do not show symptoms until the condition becomessevere, making early detection through annual testing critical and more cost-effective.
Our team answers the most common questions we receive regarding stool samples:
Most Common Questions About Stool Samples
What is the difference between stool, fecal, and poop samples?
None! They are all the same thing; people just use the word they feel most comfortable saying
Why are stool samples important?
They test for internal parasites that our pets might have. Since some of these are zoonotic diseases, they can be transmitted to owners and others. Hookworms can affect human eyesight. Since these parasites are internal we might not know they are present until your pet starts experiencing symptoms. By then, treatment will be harder and more expensive than if we catch the issue earlier.
What are internal parasites?
Parasites are microscopic worms that eat away at your pet’s intestinal lining, intestines, blood and the nutrients they get from their food.
What will parasites do to my pet?
They normally cause diarrhea and inflammation, but some internal parasites can lead to anemia and other complications. With constant diarrhea, your pet can become dehydrated and will require more care than if we caught the issue before symptoms appear.
What parasites can pets have?
o Hookworms, Tapeworms, Roundworms, Whipworms and Giardia are some of the internal parasites found in pets. The most common parasites we see at Ralston Vet are tapeworms and roundworms. There are actually 2 types of tapeworms, one can be spread by fleas.
Are there visible signs that my pet has parasites?
Most internal parasites are too small to see. Tapeworms actually look like tiny grains of rice in the stool. More commonly, you may see your pet experiencing symptoms such as diarrhea and inflammation.
What are giardia symptoms in dogs?
Symptoms can include foul-smelling diarrhea, weight loss and vomiting. They could have mucus or bright red blood in the stool. They could also be more tired and have lower energy.
How often should I bring in a stool sample?
For preventative care and to ensure your prevention methods are working, we recommend bringing a sample once a year. If your pet starts showing symptoms of internal parasites we will probably ask for another sample to see if anything has been contracted.
How can I tell if the stool looks normal or concerning?
Normal stool should be formed; it does not need to be hard, but it can be a little softer. The stool does not have a weird color to it, and your pet is not straining when it comes out. We are concerned if the stool has a really loose, pudding-like, or watery consistency. Also, if it’s dark red or dark in color.
What signs should prompt me to bring in another sample?
If you see what looks like tiny grains of rice or your dog is having constant diarrhea. If you are seeing what looks like little grains of rice, please make sure the sample includes one of the grains.
What if I forgot to bring in a stool sample for my preventive care exam? Can I bring it in later?
Yes, as long as you’ve had a physical exam within the last year, you can drop off a sample with our Customer Service Representatives at the front desk.
Now for the fun part our team answers how to actually bring in a stool sample that will work!
How to Bring a Stool Sample
How much do I need to collect for a proper test?
We do not need a large amount; to be safe we ask for a sample the size of a golf ball. If you are concerned that it won’t be enough, feel free to collect all of it, and we can extract the amount we need. If you see anything unusual in your dog’s stool, such as what appears to be tiny grains of rice, please be sure to include it in the sample.
How fresh does the sample need to be?
Ideally, it should be collected within a few hours of when you bring it in. If not, we can use a stool sample that is up to 24 hours old. Once it becomes hard, the stool becomes unusable. You can also put the stool sample in the fridge to slow down the process until you can bring it in.
How should I bring the sample?
If possible, use a bag, such as a poop bag, a Ziploc bag, or grocery bag. You are also welcome to bring it in Tupperware; however, please consider that a “donation” to the clinic, as we won’t be returning your Tupperware to you!
If I have a cat, is it okay for there to be litter on the stool?
Yes, a little litter is fine on the stool, however, for cat owners the bigger concern is ensuring you collect stool and not urine. What you can do is grab the scooper and push into the clump and if it breaks apart, it’s poop.
How often should I clean up my pet’s stool?
For cats, we recommend cleaning the litter every day. This way you are able to keep up with your cat’s habits and ensure that you are getting the freshest stool sample. For dogs we recommend cleaning your backyard regularly to help prevent bacteria growth on stools, the attraction of flies and maggots and possible other animals into your yard.
How long will it take to get the results?
If the stool sample test is negative, then you will hear back within 1-2 days. If the test is positive, it could take 2-3 days to hear back from the doctor as they develop a treatment plan for your pet.
We know how stressful it can be when your pet is acting strangely or showing unusual symptoms. Ensuring your pet’s health is our top priority, and preventative care is the best way to catch medical issues before they become serious and costly to treat.
As part of this preventative approach, routine stool samples are highly important formonitoring your pet’s health.
If you have any questions or need further information, please feel free to email us at ralstonvet@ralstonvet.com or call/text us at 402-331-6322.
