Bringing your pet's stool sample to the vet's office for an annual fecal exam is the best way to prevent intestinal parasites from infecting your four-legged friend - and your family. Annual fecals afford your Baltimore vet the opportunity to detect intestinal parasites before more serious complications occur.
What is a fecal exam?
During a fecal exam, your vet will complete a microscopic examination of your pet's feces. These annual fecals are completed at your vet's office and can help us identify and treat any infections that can compromise your pet's health, and even the health of your family.
What do fecal exams detect?
Your vet will check for any signs of parasites such as roundworms, heartworms and hookworms when completing the exam. These parasites can not only make pets uncomfortable and irritable, but also lead to many more serious issues. Several parasites can even be transmitted to people.
Intestinal parasites live and thrive in your pet's gastrointestinal tract and are hidden from view. That's why fecal exams are critical to detecting their presence - and protecting your pet.
How do I prepare for my pet's fecal?
Take a fresh stool sample and drop it off at your vet's office the same day - ideally within 4 to 6 hours to allow us to obtain the most accurate results possible (you may want to bring it in at the same time as your pet's annual routine physical exam).
It's essential not to allow the stool sample to dry out or dehydrate, since many potential parasites will die off, which in turn can mask their existence or presence.
How often does my pet need a fecal?
Your pet should be tested for internal parasites at least once per year. Puppies and other animals with gastrointestinal problems may require more frequent fecal exams. Ask your vet how often you should bring your pet's stool sample in for a fecal.