Getting yearly fecal exams is the best way to keep your pet and your family safe from intestinal parasites. Annual fecal exams give your Irvine vet a chance to check for intestinal parasites before more serious conditions arise.
What is a fecal exam?
A Fecal exam is a microscopic examination of your pet's feces at the vet's office. Having your pet's feces tested annually will help your veterinarian identify and treat any infections that could endanger the health of your pet, as well as the health of you and your family.
What do fecal exams detect?
When performing fecal exams, your vet will check for signs of parasites like hookworms or roundworms. In addition to making pets miserable, parasites have the potential to cause other, more serious problems. Many parasites are also capable of being transmitted from person to person.
Intestinal parasites live in the digestive tract of your pet and are therefore difficult to detect. Because of this, fecal exams are the most effective method of detecting them.
How do I prepare for my pet's fecal exam?
For the most accurate results, bring a fresh stool sample to your veterinarian's office the same day.
Dehydration or drying of the stool sample will kill many potential parasites, making their presence difficult to detect.
How often does my pet need a fecal exam?
We recommend your pet be tested for parasites on a regular basis. At the very least once per year. Fecal examinations may be required more frequently in puppies and pets with digestive problems. A fecal exam is a simple procedure and can be performed on your pet as often as you like.
