Having yearly fecal exams at your veterinarian's office is the best way to protect your pet and family from intestinal parasites. Annual fecals allow your Fort Oglethorpe vet to screen for intestinal parasites before more serious conditions develop.
What is a fecal exam?
A fecal exam is a microscopic examination of your pet's feces performed by your veterinarian. These annual fecals will assist your veterinarian in identifying and treating any infections that may be threatening your pet's health, as well as the health of members of your household.
What do fecals 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 they can lead to a variety of more serious problems. A variety of parasites may even be transmitted to humans.
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?
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.
How often does my pet need a fecal?
Your pet should be tested for internal parasites at least once a year. Puppies and animals with gastrointestinal issues may require more frequent fecal exams. Inquire with your veterinarian about how frequently you should bring your pet's stool sample in for a fecal analysis.