Fecal exam explained
Microscopy for eggs, protozoa and digestion markers — a must for diarrhea, weight loss and young pets. Fresh samples within 2 hours have the highest detection rate.
🧾 Before the test
- ✓Fresh stool to the clinic within 2 hours (fridge extends to same day)
- ✓Sample several spots (eggs are shed intermittently)
- ✓Dewormed pets still need testing — products differ in coverage
📊 Reading the key values
| Search | High | Low |
|---|---|---|
| Roundworm eggs | Roundworm infection (most common in juveniles) | No infection or sampling gap |
| Tapeworm segments / eggs | Tapeworm infection (fleas are the intermediate host — deworm fleas too) | No infection |
| Coccidia / Giardia | Protozoal infection (a common cause of puppy/kitten diarrhea) | No infection |
| Occult blood | GI bleeding: parasites, ulcers, foreign body | Normal |
💡 How to read it One negative sample doesn't rule out parasites — eggs are shed intermittently. For persistent diarrhea, run three samples. A fecal exam is also standard for annual checks and before adopting a pet home.
🤖 AI report interpretation
Type the values from your report below (e.g. “ALT 250, BUN 40”) and the AI will interpret them against each test’s reference meanings.
FAQ
I saw worms — still test feces?
Visible worms confirm infection, but a fecal test identifies mixed infections and species so the right dewormer is chosen.
Can humans catch pet parasites?
Some yes (roundworms, Giardia). Children should wash hands after contact with pet feces; pregnant women should avoid litter boxes.