The best way to keep your pet and family safe from intestinal parasites is to have yearly fecal exams at your veterinarian's office. Annual fecal exams allow your Corpus Christi vet to check for intestinal parasites before they cause more serious problems.
What is a fecal exam?
A fecal exam is a microscopic examination of your pet's feces performed in the office of your veterinarian. These annual fecal exams will assist your veterinarian in identifying and treating any infections that may be threatening your pet's health, as well as the health of family members.
What do fecal exams detect?
When performing fecal exams, your veterinarian will look for signs of parasites such as hookworms and roundworms. These parasites can make pets irritable and uncomfortable, as well as cause a variety of other problems. People can be infected with a variety of parasites.
Intestinal parasites live in your pet's gastrointestinal tract, hiding them from view. That's why fecal exams are the best way to detect their presence.
How do I prepare for my pet's fecal exam?
Get a fresh stool sample 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 can mask their presence.
How often does my pet need a fecal exam?
Internal parasites should be tested on your pet at least once a year. Fecal examinations may be required more frequently in puppies and animals with gastrointestinal problems. Inquire with your veterinarian about how often you should bring your pet's stool sample in for a fecal analysis.