Getting yearly fecal exams at your vet's office is the best way to keep your pet and your family safe from intestinal parasites. Annual fecal exams give your Perry vet the opportunity to check for intestinal parasites before they cause more serious problems.
What Is a Fecal Exam?
A fecal exam is a microscopic examination of your pet's feces performed in the vet's office. These annual fecal exams will assist your veterinarian in identifying and treating any infections that may be threatening your pet's health, as well as the health of family members.
What Do Fecal Exams Detect?
When performing fecal exams, your veterinarian will look for signs of parasites such as hookworms and roundworms. These parasites can make pets irritable and uncomfortable and could lead to many more serious issues. A number of parasites may even be transmitted to people.
Intestinal parasites live in your pet's gastrointestinal tract, hiding them from view. As a result, fecal examinations are the most effective way to detect their presence.
How Do I Prepare for My Pet’s Fecal Exam?
For the most accurate results, get a fresh stool sample and bring it to your vet's office the same day, ideally within 4 to 6 hours.
You want to make sure the stool sample doesn't dry out because dehydration will kill many potential parasites. That, in turn, can mask their presence.
How Often Does My Pet Need a Fecal Exam?
You should have your pet tested for internal parasites at least annually. Puppies and animals with gastrointestinal issues may need fecal exams more frequently. Ask your vet how often you should bring your pet's stool sample in for a fecal.