A fecal test — also called a fecal exam or stool test — screens your dog or cat for intestinal parasites that aren’t visible to the naked eye. Most infected pets show no symptoms at all, which is exactly why routine testing matters. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association¹, some of these parasites can also spread to people — making regular fecal testing an important part of protecting your whole household, not just your pet.
What Does a Fecal Test Check?
Fecal tests screen for intestinal parasites that live in a pet’s digestive tract. The same core parasites affect both dogs and cats:
Roundworms — Among the most common parasites in pets; spread through contaminated soil; can infect humans, especially children
Hookworms — Attach to the intestinal lining and feed on blood; larvae can penetrate human skin
Whipworms — Live in the large intestine; more common in dogs than cats; cause chronic diarrhea and weight loss in heavy infections
Tapeworms — Typically transmitted through fleas; segments may occasionally appear near the tail or in stool
Giardia — A microscopic protozoan causing diarrhea; spread through contaminated water and surfaces
Coccidia — A protozoan affecting the intestinal lining; especially common in puppies, kittens, and stressed animals
Cats can also be tested for Toxoplasma — a parasite of particular concern for pregnant people, since cats shed infectious eggs in their stool after initial exposure. Dogs are not significant Toxoplasma hosts. Cat fecal panels may also detect Tritrichomonas foetus, a protozoan causing chronic diarrhea more common in multi-cat households.
Types of Fecal Tests
Fecal flotation is the standard method for both species. A small stool sample is mixed with a special solution and centrifuged, causing parasite eggs to float to the surface where they can be examined under a microscope. Results typically take about 20 minutes.
Fecal antigen tests detect proteins released by parasites rather than eggs — making them useful for catching infections earlier, before a parasite begins shedding eggs. This method is more sensitive than flotation alone for certain organisms. Many veterinary practices now use both methods together to reduce the chance of missed infections.
How Often Should Dogs and Cats Have a Fecal Test?
The AVMA recommends¹ fecal testing at least twice a year for adult pets, and four or more times a year for puppies, kittens, and pregnant animals. More frequent testing is recommended for:
Dogs: Those that board regularly, visit dog parks, drink from outdoor water sources, hunt, or have a history of parasitic infections
Cats: Those with outdoor access, in multi-cat households, or that are immunocompromised
A fecal test is also appropriate whenever a pet shows gastrointestinal symptoms — persistent diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, or a distended belly — regardless of how recently they were last tested.
Do Indoor Cats Need Fecal Testing?
Yes. Many pet parents assume indoor cats are safe from intestinal parasites, but exposure can happen through multiple routes inside the home:
Rodents or insects that enter the house
Contaminated soil tracked in on shoes, boots, or clothing
Potted plant soil, which can harbor parasite eggs
Other pets in the household that go outdoors
Because most infected cats show no symptoms, the only reliable way to detect a parasitic infection in an indoor cat is through routine fecal testing.
How to Collect a Stool Sample
For both dogs and cats, collect a fresh sample — ideally passed within 24 hours of the appointment — using gloves and a clean, sealed container. For cats, scoop directly from the litter box before clumping litter absorbs moisture. A small amount (about one teaspoon) is sufficient. Refrigerate the sample until the visit. Your vet’s office may provide a collection kit if you call ahead.
How Much Does a Fecal Test Cost?
Cost varies by test type, clinic, and region. According to PetMD², a basic fecal flotation typically runs $25–$75² for dogs; cat costs are comparable. Comprehensive panels that include antigen testing or PCR diagnostics cost more. Fecal exams done as part of an annual wellness visit are often bundled with the exam fee. For a broader look at what a routine checkup involves, see how much does a vet checkup cost.
Does Pet Insurance Cover Fecal Tests?
Whether a fecal test is covered depends on why it was ordered and the type of plan.
Diagnostic fecal testing: When a pet is showing symptoms and the fecal exam is ordered as part of a diagnostic workup for a covered illness, most accident and illness plans cover it. For a detailed look at what’s typically included, see what does pet insurance cover.
Routine annual testing: Standard accident and illness plans generally don’t cover wellness screening. Preventive care add-ons are designed for this — they can help reimburse annual fecal exams and other routine services. For more on how exam coverage works, see does pet insurance cover exams.
For cat-specific insurance considerations, see is cat insurance worth it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a pet have intestinal parasites without any symptoms?
Yes — and this is one of the most important reasons for routine fecal testing. Many dogs and cats with intestinal parasites show no visible signs, especially in the early stages. Without regular testing, infections can worsen over time and spread to other pets or people in the household. Testing at least twice a year catches problems before they become serious.
Are any pet intestinal parasites dangerous to people?
Some are. The AVMA notes¹ that roundworms and hookworms carry the greatest risk of human transmission. Roundworm eggs can be accidentally ingested through contaminated soil or surfaces — children are particularly at risk. Hookworm larvae can penetrate human skin. Toxoplasma, shed by cats, is a concern primarily for pregnant people and immunocompromised individuals. Keeping pets on parasite prevention and testing regularly are two of the most effective ways to reduce household risk.
What happens after a positive fecal test?
Your vet will prescribe a deworming medication specific to the parasite identified. Most intestinal parasites respond well to one or two rounds of oral treatment. A follow-up fecal test is typically scheduled to confirm the infection has cleared. If one pet in a multi-pet household tests positive, your vet may recommend testing other pets in the home as well.
Pet insurance can help pet parents feel more prepared for life’s unexpected vet visits. From unexpected accidents and illnesses to diagnostics and treatment, having a plan in place can help make the cost of covered care more manageable when it matters most.
Spot Pet Insurance offers customizable plans for dogs and cats, including accident-only and accident & illness coverage. Pet parents can choose from flexible reimbursement rates, deductibles, and annual limits to build a plan that fits their budget. Every plan also includes coverage for microchip implantation and access to a 24/7 telehealth helpline for added peace of mind. Get a free quote.
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American Veterinary Medical Association. Intestinal Parasites in Cats and Dogs. AVMA Pet Owner Resources.
PetMD. Fecal Tests for Dogs. PetMD, September 2024.
