Annual fecal exams for your dog or cat are the best way to ensure that your pet, and your household, are safe from intestinal parasites. Fecals allow your Huntersville vets to check for intestinal parasites that are difficult to detect with a routine examination.
What is a fecal exam?
Fecal exams are microscopic examinations of your pet's feces. Fecals help vets to identify and treat infections that may otherwise be difficult to detect. Fecal exams are done right here in our Huntersville office.
What do fecals detect?
A number of intestinal parasites can be detected using a fecal exam, including roundworms and hookworms. Intestinal parasites make pets irritable and uncomfortable, and may lead to more serious health issues. It's also important to note that some intestinal parasites can be transmitted from pets to people.
Intestinal parasites live in your pet's gastrointestinal tract, where they are hidden from view. Annual fecal exams allow your vet to detect and treat intestinal parasites early.
How do I prepare for my pet's fecal?
Collect a fresh sample of your pet's stool and bring it to your vet's office the same day. If the stool sample dries out or dehydrates it will kill off many of the potential parasites, which could mask their presence in the sample. That's why, getting your pet's stool sample to us within 4-6 hours of collecting it will give the most accurate results.
How often does my pet need a fecal?
Our Huntersville vets recommend that all dogs and cats be tested annually for parasites. Puppies and animals with gastrointestinal issues may require more frequent fecal exams. Speak to your vet to find out how often you should bring in your pet’s stool sample for testing.
Fecal exams are part of our annual Wellness Plans. Choose the Wellness Plan that's right for your pet.
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