How to Keep Cat Fecal Matter for a Vet Visit

Veterinarians examine stool samples to diagnose several conditions in cats, such as parasitic infections and intestinal worms. Some veterinarians examine cat stools as part of a routine checkup. Others only ask for stool samples in cats who are exhibiting symptoms of an illness, such as vomiting, diarrhea or lack of appetite. Either way, if you own a cat, you should know how to collect and store a stool sample from your pet.

Things You'll Need

  • Non-clumping kitty litter
  • Collection container, jar or bag
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Instructions

    • 1

      Change the litter in your cat's litter box to clean, non-clumping litter. Clumping litter mixes with feces to form hard clumps that are difficult for your vet to examine. Old or contaminated litter could also cause an inaccurate diagnosis.

    • 2

      Isolate the intended cat in a closed room with the litter box to ensure that you collect the right specimen.

    • 3

      Collect the stool as soon as possible after it is produced, especially if your veterinarian is testing for

      Tritrichomonas foetus or other parasites. Place the stool in a collection container, plastic bag or small jar. If your cat has been producing blood, mucus or diarrhea, try to collect a stool that represents these abnormalities.

    • 4

      Seal the container and take it immediately to your vet, if possible. If you cannot immediately bring the stool sample to your vet, ask your vet whether the sample can be refrigerated. Some parasites will die in cold temperatures, making refrigeration impossible. Depending on your cat's possible condition, you may be able to place the container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.