Fecal Examination

This is a screening for parasites and parasitic eggs. Parasitic infections cause poor hair coats, potbellies, anemia, anorexia, colic in horses, intestinal damage and death. This test may be recommended for patients with diarrhea, bloody stool, fecal mucous, weight loss, vomiting or abdominal pain.

A fecal smear (wet mount) can be performed on fresh feces for parasites.

A fecal flotation aids in identifying parasite eggs. This is an important part of an annual examination.

A fecal egg count quantifies a parasitic infection and can aid in the detection of resistance to dewormers.

Some parasites can be transmitted to humans from their pets, therefore we recommend yearly fecal examinations on all patients.