At Vets to Pets, we’ve built our practice around bringing compassionate, Fear Free certified veterinary care directly into the comfort of your own home. From wellness visits and vaccinations to diagnostics and end-of-life support, we combine medical expertise with empathy and convenience, all in a setting where your pet feels safe!

We believe preventive care is key to keeping pets healthy and happy. While vaccines and routine exams are critical, one often overlooked but essential aspect of preventive care is fecal testing. It might not sound glamorous, but it plays a huge role in protecting your pet  – and your family! –  from parasites and other health issues.

What Is Fecal Testing?

Fecal testing is a simple laboratory test of your pet’s stool to check for intestinal parasites like:

  • Roundworms
  • Hookworms
  • Tapeworms
  • Whipworms
  • Giardia and coccidia

Many pets carrying parasites appear completely healthy. Because most parasites are microscopic, they aren’t visible to the naked eye. Even without symptoms, infected pets can shed parasite eggs into the environment, potentially infecting other animals — and in some cases, people.

Why Fecal Testing Matters

  1. Protects your pet’s health
     Intestinal parasites can cause diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, poor coat quality, anemia, and nutritional deficiencies. Early detection allows for prompt, effective treatment before more serious complications develop.
  2. Protects your family
     Some parasites, including roundworms and hookworms, are zoonotic — meaning they can be transmitted to humans. Young children and immunocompromised individuals are particularly vulnerable. Routine testing helps reduce this risk.
  3. Allows for targeted treatment
     Different parasites require different medications. Identifying the specific organism ensures your pet receives the most appropriate and effective treatment.
  4. Helps prevent reinfection
     Follow-up testing confirms that treatment was successful and helps guide recommendations for cleaning, environmental management, and ongoing prevention.

How Often Should Fecal Testing Be Done?

  • Puppies and kittens
    Young pets are especially prone to parasites. They should have at least two negative fecal tests before transitioning to an adult testing schedule, though recommendations may vary based on individual risk.
  • Adult dogs and cats
    At minimum, testing once a year during a routine wellness exam is recommended. Pets with higher-risk lifestyles, (such as outdoor access, multi-pet households, boarding, or daycare) may benefit from more frequent screening.
  • After treatment
    Repeat testing may be advised to ensure parasite treatment was fully effective.

What to Expect at Vets to Pets

Fecal testing is easy! We ask that you have a small sample ready at your next appointment, and we will send it out to our reference laboratory. We’ll review the results with you, provide any necessary treatment, and recommend a parasite prevention plan tailored to your pet’s lifestyle and risk factors. At Vets to Pets, we’re committed to keeping both pets and people safe from hidden parasites. Routine fecal testing is a small step that makes a big difference in your pet’s health and your peace of mind.