Bringing your pet in for their annual fecal exam is one of the best ways your vet can help protect you and your family from intestinal parasites. Fecal exams at Tri-County Animal Clinic give your Louisa vet that opportunity to look for these parasites before they cause more serious conditions.
What are fecal exams?
A fecal exam is a microscopic examination of your pet's feces, this is done at your veterinarian's office. These yearly fecals can help your vet find and treat any infections that may be affecting your animal companion's health, and possibly the health of those in your home.
What do fecals look for?
Your veterinarian will check for any signs of parasites such as hookworms and roundworms when conducting fecal exams. These parasites can irritate pets and make them uncomfortable, they can also lead to many more serious issues. A variety of parasites can even be transmitted to people.
Intestinal parasites live in the gastrointestinal tract of your pets, hiding them from view. That's why fecals are the best way to detect their presence.
How do I get ready for my pet's fecal?
Get a fresh sample of your pet's stool 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 could mask their presence.
How often does my pet need a fecal exam?
You should have your cat or dog tested for internal parasites at least once a year. Puppies and animals with gastrointestinal issues might require fecal exams more frequently. Ask your vet how often you should bring your pet's stool sample in for a fecal.