The best way to keep your family and pets safe from intestinal parasites is with annual fecal exams for your cat or dog. In this blog, our vets in Kinston discuss the ways fecal exams help find intestinal parasites and how they help keep your pet safe from serious parasitic conditions.
What are Fecal Exams?
Fecal exams are microscopic examinations of your cat or dog's feces, that are completed at your primary care vet's office. These yearly fecal exams will help your vet find and treat any infections that might be negatively impacting the health of your pet, and potentially the health of the others in your home.
What Fecal Exams Look For
During the fecal exam, your veterinarian will check your pet for any evidence of parasites including roundworms and hookworms. These parasites can make pets irritable and uncomfortable and could lead to additional more serious issues. Several parasites can even be spread to humans.
Intestinal parasites reside in your pet's gastrointestinal tract, hiding them from view. That's why fecal exams are the best way to find their presence.
How to Prepare 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.
The Recommended Frequency of Pet Fecals
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.