Parasites that live in the gastrointestinal tract prevent our pets from digesting and absorbing nutrients appropriately. They can cause diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, poor growth, ravenous appetite, anemia, and poor hair coat. In addition to causing illness in our pets, some parasites such as hookworms, roundworms and giardia can be spread to people.
Best Friends Veterinary Hospital recommends a fecal sample to detect intestinal parasites at least once yearly in healthy adult dogs and cats. Any pet that is not feeling well (vomiting, diarrhea, poor appetite, etc) should have a fecal sample checked too. Puppies and kittens should have a fecal sample checked at each of their vaccine visits. When in doubt, bring a fecal sample to your appointment, if your veterinarian thinks it is not needed, it can be disposed of.