Bringing your pet into your vet's office for their annual fecal exam is the best way to protect them and your family from intestinal parasites, yearly fecal give our Stanwood vets a chance to check for intestinal parasites before more serious conditions arise.
What Is A Fecal Exam?
Fecal exams are microscopic examinations of your pet's feces completed at your veterinarian's office. These annual fecal exams will help your vet to identify and treat any infections that may be compromising your pet's health and even the health of other members of your household.
What Do Fecals Detect?
Your vet will search for signs of parasites like roundworms and hookworms while performing a fecal exam. These parasites can make pets uncomfortable and irritable and may even lead to more serious health issues. Several parasites that may live in pets' gastrointestinal tracts can be transmitted 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 and bring it to your vet's office on the same day. Ideally, do this within 4 to 6 hours of collecting the sample 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 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.