Yearly fecal exams at your vet's office are a great way to ensure your pet is free of any intestinal parasites. Today, our Bonita Springs vets the importance of regular fecal exams for your pet.
Fecal Exams for Pets
A fecal exam is a microscopic examination of your pet's feces, which is completed at your veterinarian's office. Regular fecals will help your vet identify and treat any infections that could be compromising your pet's health, and even the health of members of your household.
What Fecal Exams Can 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, hiding them from view. Fecal exams are important because they are the best way to detect the presence of these parasites.
Preparing for Your Pet's Fecal
Get a fresh stool sample and bring it to your vet's office the same day, ideally within 4 to 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.
Frequency of Fecal Exams for Pets
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.