Guided worming protocol

Parasite prevention is an essential part of equine ownership, and a variety of measures are included in our plans - but what does it all mean?

WEC: worm egg counts allow us to determine the amount of adult red worms (Cyathastomins) within the gut. As only adults produce eggs - this provides no information about larval stages, therefore is recommended through the summer months when larval stages are at lowest.

We recommend submitting at least 3 faecal samples for egg counts from March - October as a fast and cost effective monitoring tool.

Encysted red worm serology: a blood test which measures levels of ‘encysted L4’/ larval stages. When temperatures drop Cyathastomin larvae enter a dormant stage within the gut wall - therefore this test has most benefit in the winter months.

We recommend a red worm serology between September - December to assess burden

Tapeworm saliva test: an oral swab is used to detect antibodies for current equine tapeworm (Anoplocephala perfoliata).

It is recommended to test around ‘peak infection’ from September - December or March - June.

Pasture management is also a key part of worm management: ideally horses should be kept off pasture for 48 hours post-worming to prevent any resistant worms shedding onto the environment. Regular poo-picking in fields is also a brilliant habit to prevent population.

Our team is always happy to discuss a strategic worming approach or the most appropriate diagnostics for your horse.