What is the Best Deworming Schedule to Control Strongyles?
Controlling strongyles in horses involves a strategic deworming schedule tailored to the horse’s environment, age, and health. The best approach combines regular fecal egg counts (FEC) with targeted deworming to minimize resistance and ensure effectiveness.
Understanding Strongyles
Strongyles, also known as bloodworms, are parasites that can cause significant health issues in horses. These parasites are classified into two types: large strongyles and small strongyles. While large strongyles can cause severe health problems, small strongyles are more common and can lead to colic, weight loss, and diarrhea.
Why is a Deworming Schedule Important?
A strategic deworming schedule is crucial because it helps:
- Reduce parasite load: Prevents health issues caused by strongyles.
- Minimize resistance: Overuse of dewormers can lead to resistant parasite populations.
- Promote horse health: Ensures optimal health and performance of horses.
Recommended Deworming Schedule
The ideal deworming schedule varies based on several factors, including climate, pasture management, and the horse’s age. Here’s a general guideline:
Spring Deworming
- Perform a Fecal Egg Count (FEC): Conduct an FEC test to determine the parasite burden.
- Deworm if Necessary: Use a dewormer effective against the parasites identified in the FEC. Common options include ivermectin or moxidectin.
Summer Deworming
- Monitor FEC Results: Continue monitoring FEC results to guide deworming decisions.
- Target High Shedders: Focus on horses with high egg counts, known as "high shedders."
Fall Deworming
- Deworm All Horses: Use a broad-spectrum dewormer effective against encysted small strongyles and tapeworms, such as moxidectin/praziquantel.
Winter Deworming
- Assess FEC Results: Conduct another FEC test to evaluate the effectiveness of your deworming program.
- Adjust as Needed: Modify your deworming strategy based on FEC results and any changes in the horse’s environment or health.
Factors Influencing Deworming Schedules
Age and Health of the Horse
- Young Horses: Foals and young horses are more susceptible to parasites and may require more frequent deworming.
- Senior Horses: Older horses may have weakened immune systems and need tailored deworming strategies.
Pasture Management
- Rotation: Rotating pastures helps reduce parasite load.
- Cleaning: Regularly remove manure to minimize exposure to parasites.
Climate and Environment
- Warm Climates: Parasites thrive in warm, humid conditions, necessitating more frequent deworming.
- Cold Climates: Parasite activity decreases in colder temperatures, allowing for less frequent deworming.
Practical Examples of Deworming Schedules
- Example 1: A horse in a warm climate with high pasture exposure may require deworming every 6-8 weeks during peak parasite season.
- Example 2: A horse in a well-managed pasture with regular FEC testing may only need deworming twice a year.
People Also Ask
What are the signs of strongyle infestation in horses?
Signs of strongyle infestation include weight loss, poor coat condition, diarrhea, and colic. Regular veterinary check-ups can help detect and treat infestations early.
How do fecal egg counts help in deworming?
Fecal egg counts measure the number of parasite eggs in a horse’s feces, helping to determine the parasite burden and guide targeted deworming strategies.
Can over-deworming harm my horse?
Yes, over-deworming can lead to drug resistance in parasites, making treatments less effective and potentially harming your horse’s health.
What is the role of pasture management in controlling strongyles?
Effective pasture management, such as rotating pastures and removing manure, reduces parasite exposure and complements a strategic deworming program.
Should I consult a veterinarian for my horse’s deworming schedule?
Yes, consulting a veterinarian ensures a tailored deworming plan that considers your horse’s specific needs and environmental factors.
Conclusion
A strategic deworming schedule is essential for controlling strongyles and maintaining horse health. By combining regular fecal egg counts with targeted deworming, horse owners can effectively manage parasite loads and minimize resistance. Always consult with a veterinarian to develop a personalized deworming plan that suits your horse’s needs and environment.
For more information on horse health and management, consider exploring topics like equine nutrition and pasture management.