Getting your pet a yearly fecal exam at your veterinarian's office is the best way to keep them and your household safe from intestinal parasites. Annual fecal exams provide your Riverbank vet with their best opportunity to check for these parasites.
What is a fecal exam?
A fecal exam is a microscopic examination of your pet's feces, which is completed at your veterinarian's office. These annual fecals will help your vet to identify and treat any infections that could be compromising your pet's health, and even the health of members of your household.
What do fecals detect?
Your veterinarian will search for signs of parasites like roundworms or hookworms in your pet's stool while performing fecal exams. These parasites are capable of making your pet uncomfortable and, if untreated, can lead to much more serious health issues. A number of parasites may even be transmissible to people.
Intestinal parasites live in your pet's gastrointestinal tract, hiding them from view. That's why fecals are the best way to detect their presence.
How do I prepare for my pet's fecal?
Collect a fresh stool sample from your pet and bring it into your vet's office on the same day. Ideally you should do so within 4 to 6 hours of collecting it for the most accurate results.
It's very important that you don't allow your stool sample to dry out or dehydrate, since many potential parasites will be killed in the process, making them much more difficult to detect.
How often does my pet need a fecal?
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.