Getting your pet their annual fecal exam at your veterinarian's office is the best way for you to keep your pet and family safe from intestinal parasites. Annual fecal exams allow your Sacramento vet to check for intestinal infections and parasites before more serious conditions arise.
What is a fecal exam?
Fecal exams are a microscopic examination of your pets' stool completed at your vet's office. Annually schedule fecals can help your vet to identify and treat any infections that could be compromising your pet's health and event eh health of other members of your household.
What do fecals detect?
Your vet will look for any signs of parasites such as hookworms and roundworms when performing fecal exams. These parasites can make pets irritable and uncomfortable and could lead to many more serious issues. Several parasites may even be transmitted to people.
Intestinal parasites live in your pet's gastrointestinal tract, hidden from view. Because of this, fecals are one of the best ways to detect their presence in your pet's body.
How do I prepare for my pet's fecal?
Collect a fresh stool sample from your pet and bring it to your vet's office as soon as possible on the same day. If you can, make sure you bring the sample into your vet's office within 4-6 hours for the most accurate results.
It's imperative not to allow the stool sample to dehydrate or dry out, since many of the potential parasites will be killed, which in turn can mask their presence.
How often does my pet need a fecal?
You should have your pet tested for internal parasites at least once each year. 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.