Smallholders Worm Advice Service
2023: Sorry, our books are full - we can't take on any new clients
If you have sent us a sample before - then please continue to send your samples to Emily as usual
equine parasites
A worm egg count for horses will accurately detect strongyle roundworms - these are the most common equine parasite and can cause serious problems in all ages.
But - we can't always detect tapeworms, pinworms or stomach bots. These are less frequent and mostly harmless in adults, please discuss any concerns you may have with us
Recommended testing frequency: 3 times per year
Optimum Schedule: Jan, May, Aug-September
Horse / Pony / Donkey WEC: £14.50
For up to 5 named samples: this can be a mix&match of species across the farm
Horse strongyles
under the microscope
Horse strongyles
ROUNDWORMS:
large Strongyles
aka the Nematodes:
Strongylus vulgaris
SYMPTOMS
Mostly asymptomatic
Rarely cause anaemia
BUT:
larval migration can cause aneurysms, especially of the cranial mesenteric artery - these can suddenly bleed causing severe colic or death
roundworms:
Small Strongyles
aka nematodes:
Cyathostomes, Cylicocyclus, Cylicocephalus, Gyalocephalus
SYMPTOMS
unthriftness
lethargy
poor coat quality
intermittent enteritis - diarrhoea and poor appetite
tapeworm
aka anoplocephala
SYMPTOMS
Look horrible when wriggling out - but surprisingly harmless!
Heavy burdens in under 2 year olds cause:
Anorexia
Reduced gut motility
Only detected through saliva kits - you can order these through the internet. We recommend worming all under 2 year olds with a tapewormer every 6 months
pinworm
aka Oxyuris equi
SYMPTOMS
Itchiness around the bottom
tail rubbing
tail nibbling
behavioural problems and agitation
Usually shows on a Faecal Worm Egg Count - but not always so look closely for tiny wriggly worms around your horse's anus