Managing High Worm Counts in Broodmares: Best Practices and Precautions
In the world of equine health, worms stand as a silent adversary, particularly for broodmares and their foals. These majestic creatures, known for their grace and strength, can rapidly become vulnerable to health issues due to high worm burdens. This article delves into the intricacies of managing worm counts in broodmares, presenting best practices and vital precautions essential for ensuring the health of mares and their precious foals.
Understanding Worm Infestations in Horses
Worms are an inevitable companion in the equestrian realm. They reproduce through a cycle where eggs are ingested from contaminated pastures, develop inside the horse's intestinal tract, and are excreted back into the environment through faeces. This incessant cycle increases the worm burden on the pasture, threatening other horses as well.
Importance of Faecal Egg Counts (FEC)
Enter the Faecal Egg Count (FEC), an indispensable tool for managing worm burdens. By analyzing a fresh faecal sample from the horse, FEC helps determine the number of eggs per gram (EPG) of manure, which is pivotal for decision-making:
- Low Count: Less than 200 EPG implies a negligible risk [link: VetHelpDirect].
- Moderate Count: 200-500 EPG suggests a need for mild intervention.
- High Count: More than 500 EPG necessitates treatment to avert potential disease [link: Virbac].
For broodmares, a regular FEC is crucial, especially during pregnancy and after foaling for minimizing risk.
Targeted Deworming Programs
With an increasing risk of wormer resistance, a targeted worming program is advised. This approach focuses on testing horses frequently and selectively worming those with notable worm burdens. Key strategies include:
- Regular Testing: Conduct FEC every 3 months to keep an eye on the worm burden [Canberra Equine Hospital].
- Specific Treatments: Use wormers aligned with the FEC findings and the specific worms present, e.g., moxidectin/praziquantel for cyathostomes and tapeworms annually in autumn.
- Weight Measurement: Ensure optimal dose administration by accurately measuring weight to prevent underdosing, a known catalyst for wormer resistance.
Pasture Management
Effective pasture management significantly mitigates the risk of worm infestations:
- Regular Manure Removal: Clean pasture at least twice weekly to prevent larvae spread.
- Cross Grazing and Rotation: Alternate grazing with cattle or sheep to disrupt the worms' lifecycle.
- Rest Pastures: Allow pastures to remain horse-free for 9 months to eliminate parasites, considering small strongyle larvae can survive up to 9 months in cooler climates.
Special Considerations for Broodmares and Foals
Broodmares, notably during pregnancy, and foals with immature immune systems require special attention:
- Pregnancy Management: Worming mares during pregnancy can substantially reduce the transmission of worms to foals.
- Early Foaling: Foals start worming against threadworms as early as four weeks old.
- Regular Monitoring: Young and older horses need frequent FEC and worming to timely address worm burdens.
Preventing Wormer Resistance
Addressing wormer resistance is as critical as managing the worm burden itself. The following strategies can help:
- FEC Determines the Need: Worm horses only when necessary based on FEC results, as unnecessary worming encourages resistance.
- Correct Dosage and Timing: Accurate dosage is imperative. For instance, targeting encysted small redworms during winter with moxidectin is advisable.
- Avoid Contamination: Prevent transferring horses onto new pastures shortly after worming to avoid contamination.
Conclusion
Managing high worm counts in broodmares demands vigilance and systematic approaches. Through regular FEC, adopting a targeted worming program, and executing effective pasture management, you safeguard the health of your broodmares and their foals, consequently enhancing the efficacy of deworming treatments for the long haul. Implement these best practices diligently, and our majestic equine companions shall continue to dazzle the world with their vitality and vigor.
