Canine Medical Problems Indicated with Dog Feces

Dog feces are often analyzed to detect several illnesses or diseases. The analysis determines the presence of virus, bacteria, parasites and signs of intestinal disorders. The sample of feces should be fresh, as this will help the vet to attain a correct diagnosis.

Dog Feces Analysis

Infections or conditions diagnosed with dog feces analysis include:

  • Worm infections such as tapeworms, hookworm, ringworms and whipworms
  • Corona virus and bacterial infections
  • Hematochezea
  • Rectum bleeding
  • Intestinal bleeding
  • Neoplasia (bowel cancer)

Along with the fecal analysis, the vet may also conduct a physical exam and blood test to rule out other medical conditions. Puppies in particular are known to show variations in their stool. Since puppies are more susceptible to illness and bacteria, it's necessary to watch for any symptoms of sickness or changes in their stool and seek prompt medical attention.

A lot of yellow mucus in your pet's stool is an indicator of an infection. The symptom of yellow mucus in dog feces is of more concern in older dogs and puppies. It indicates irritable bowel syndrome, parasites or food allergies. It's important to diagnose the infection early, as it could progress rapidly and cause complications.

Blood in Dog Stool

Bloody stool is another common symptom of ailments in pets. Sometimes the stools contain bright red blood.T he stools may also be black or tarry in color. Along with bloody stools, pets can exhibit symptoms such as lack of appetite and diarrhea.

Known causes of blood in stools are:

  • Canine anal sac infection
  • Intestinal problems
  • Parvo virus
  • Cancer, especially in older dogs

Parasites in Dog Stool

Both puppies and dogs fall prey to parasitic infections. Parasites include roundworms, tapeworms and hookworms. Parasites such as roundworms attach themselves to the intestinal lining and multiply. Tapeworms are known to release segments which contain tapeworm eggs that pass through the dog's feces. The segments may often be seen in the fur around the dog's anus. Microscopic examination of stools can detect the type of worms your pet is suffering from. An infected dam can also pass the infection to her pups through her milk. Unborn puppies could contract the infection in the uterus. Worms utilize essential nutrients in your pet's body and lower the immune system capability.

Green Feces in Dogs

Known causes of green feces in dogs are intestinal disorders and parasite infections. The stool appears slimy and green in color. Watch for symptoms of constipation, straining to defecate or diarrhea, as it helps the vet establish a correct diagnosis. In certain cases, parasites go undetected in the first fecal exam, and the vet may recommend a second stool examination. Green feces in dogs could also be attributed to ingestion of grass or allergies caused by certain ingredients in food.

As fecal exams determine underlying illnesses, vets generally use a stool test as a diagnostic aid for pets with varying symptoms of sickness. Fecal exams should be conducted at least twice a year in order to detect parasites and bacteria. Remember to follow adequate feces disposal methods, as dog feces may contain parasite eggs, and infections could be easily transmitted to other pets.

 

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