Keeping your pet and your family healthy is your top priority, and you want to make sure they are safe from intestinal parasites. Getting yearly fecal exams at your Statesboro and Bulloch County veterinary office is the number one way to do that.
What is a fecal exam?
A fecal exam is a microscopic examination of your pet's feces, completed by your vet at their clinic. These annual fecals will help your vet to identify and treat any infections that could be compromising your pet's health, and even the health of members of your household.
What do fecals detect?
Your vet looks for traces of parasites like roundworms and hookworms while conducting fecal exams. Irritability and discomfort are commonly seen in pets with these types of parasites, and they can go on to develop much more serious conditions. They can even spread theses prasites to people without any indications.
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, the best results can be seen in samples brought in within 4-6 hours.
It's imperative not to allow the stool sample to dehydrate or dry out, since many of the potential parasites will be killed, which can make detection unlikely.
How often does my pet need a fecal?
You should have your pet tested for internal parasites at least once a year. Pets 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.
