Why It Matters
Fecal tests help detect parasites like roundworms, Giardia, and coccidia, as well as other gastrointestinal issues. Even pets on regular preventatives may need testing, since some organisms aren’t covered by regular preventive dewormers. The fresher and softer the sample, the more accurate the results. Older or dried-out feces can lead to false negatives or unusable samples.
Collection Basics
Bringing a fresh (within 12-24 hours) sample from home is easier for your pet and yields better results than collecting one at the clinic. Here’s how to do it right:
You’ll Need:
- A sandwich baggie, plastic spoon, or something to collect the sample
- A sealed container or zip-lock bag to transport the sample
For Dogs:
- Collect right after they go—ideally on a walk or in a fenced yard without other dogs.
- Use a spoon or invert a plastic bag over your hand to pick up the stool.
- Only about a tablespoon is needed. A little grass or mulch stuck to it is fine.
- If the stool is watery, scoop up as much as possible directly from the ground. No paper towels please! We just want the poop!
For Cats:
- Scoop a fresh deposit from the litter box.
- A small amount of litter on the stool is okay.
- If your cat usually goes outside, consider keeping them indoors until a sample can be collected.
Handling and Storage
- Submit the sample within 12–24 hours—sooner is better.
- Keep it cool and out of the sun. DO NOT FREEZE THE SAMPLE.
- Wash your hands thoroughly after collection, even if you used gloves. (duh!)
- Pregnant individuals and people with weakened immune systems should not handle fecal samples due to risk of zoonotic infection (e.g., toxoplasmosis in cats).
Still have questions? Let us know—we’re happy to help you get a clean sample!