Your vet may request a stool sample if your cat shows symptoms of a worm infection or other health problem. Or, he may want you to bring in a sample at your kitty's routine checkup. Either way, collecting a stool sample doesn't have to be difficult or messy.
Step 1
Clean out your kitty's litter box. If you have multiple cats, place a clean box in a room with the cat you need a sample from, and keep the box and your kitty isolated until she produces a sample.
Step 2
Turn a plastic baggy inside out and slip your hand inside it like a glove. Use this hand to pick up a sample from the clean litter box. It is OK if some pieces of litter stick to the sample.
Step 3
Make sure the sample is large enough. Depending on what tests your vet wants to run, the sample should be at least as large as a teaspoon. Your vet may want a larger sample. If you are unsure, call and ask.
Step 4
Hold the sample gently and turn the bag right side out using your other hand.
Step 5
Seal the baggy. If collecting samples from more than one cat, write your cat's name on the outside of the bag using a blank permanent marker.
Step 6
Refrigerate the sample if you are not taking it directly to your vet's office. If it is older than 24 hours, discard the sample and collect a new one.
Step 7
Wash your hands with soap and water.
Always check with your veterinarian before changing your pet’s diet, medication, or physical activity routines. This information is not a substitute for a vet’s opinion.
