Mucus in a Puppy's Stool

Intestinal parasites can cause mucus in a puppy's stool.

A health problem in a puppy can be frightening for a new dog owner. If a puppy develops mucus in its stool, a veterinarian can diagnose the cause of it and prescribe a treatment regimen to restore the puppy to full health.

Mucus in Stool

Mucus in a puppy's stool is an indication that the puppy is experiencing a health problem within its intestinal tract. If the mucus is consistently present, then the problem could be serious.

Symptoms

Mucus coats the outside of a puppy's stool in a slick covering. The mucus can be mostly clear or bloody, according to "Puppies for Dummies."

Causes

Intestinal parasites like the protoazoan giardia and whipworms can cause mucus-coated stool in a puppy.

Treatment

Giardia is treated with prescription medications like fenbendazole and metronidazole. Whipworm is also treated with medication, and heartworm preventatives can prevent reinfection in a puppy.

Considerations

Intestinal parasites that cause mucus in a puppy's stool are contagious. In addition to treating the puppy, it is important to thoroughly clean the puppy's environment to protect it and other animals.

References

• "Puppies for Dummies"; Sarah Hodgson; 2006.