Fecal tests are recommended to detect internal parasites in our cats that are passed from infected dogs, cats, rodents and birds through their fecal matter. Most commonly in mature cats, they can get it from walking through infected feces and then in the grooming process, lick and ingest the feces and get infected. They can even become infected by simply sniffing another animal’s feces. Young kittens will often be passed parasites from their mothers, either in the womb or through their mother’s milk.
What is a fecal parasite screen?
A fecal parasite screen is a test that is done on a small sample of your cat’s feces; which can detect if your cat is carrying any internal parasites.
What does a fecal parasite screen reveal?
Fecal test results may reveal the presence of common internal parasites such as roundworm, hookworm and/or Giardia. Depending on the type of parasite found; your veterinary team will be able to dispense the appropriate medication to rid your cat of these pesky parasites!
How is a fecal parasite screen done?
A small sample of your cat’s fecal material is closely examined under the microscope for the presence of various eggs. By seeing and identifying these eggs it can be determined if there are any parasites living within your cat’s intestinal tract, as well as what specific type they are.
How do you take a cat stool sample?
At West Hill Animal Clinic, we can send you home with a pre-paid fecal container that contains special preservatives in it. We recommend that you collect three small samples of feces over the course of several days and place them in the container. After the samples are collected, you may then drop it off to us. Once we have the test results, if the results are negative then your cat is free from any parasites which is great news and we will typically e-mail or call to inform you. If the test comes back positive and your cat does, in fact, have a parasite, we will then call you and let you know what your next steps should be.
What is the cost of a cat stool test?
Contact us to find out how much it costs to take home a pre-paid fecal container to help you collect your cat’s fecal sample!