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Feces

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Feces, faeces, or fæces (see spelling differences) is waste product from an animal's digestive system tract expelled through the anus (or cloaca) during defecation. In humans, defecation may occur (depending on the individual and the circumstances) from once every two or three days to several times a day. Hardening of the feces may cause prolonged interruption in the routine and is called constipation. The word faeces is the plural of the Latin word fæx meaning "dregs". There is no singular form in the English language .

The distinctive odor of feces is due to bacterial action. Bacteria produce compounds such as indole, skatole, and thiols (sulfur containing compounds), as well as the inorganic gas hydrogen sulfide. These are the same compounds that are responsible for the odor of flatulence. Consumption of foods with spices may result in the spices being undigested and adding to the odor of feces. Certain commercial products exist that can reduce the odor of feces.

The feces of animals is often used as fertilizer; see manure. Some animal feces, especially those of the bison and cow are used as fuel when dried out.

Related terminology

Scatology is the study of feces. Informally, the words "excrement", "poo" and "poop" have become synonymous with feces. The word "shit," which is not slang but is historically the basic word for feces in English, is now considered vulgar. "Crap" is also sometimes used but has also taken on other meanings.

Coprophilia, also known as fecophilia, is a sexual attraction to fecal matter.

Coprophagia is the consumption of feces. This is normal behavior in certain animal species, but is not normally practiced by humans, particularly due to the health risks involved.

Human feces

Main article: Human feces

Refer to Your Mom

Cleanup

Several companies market carpet cleaning products aimed at pet owners. However pet feces can be cleaned with just dishwashing detergent or liquid soap.

See also

External links

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