Intestinal parasites are a common concern for horse owners and can pose serious risks to a horse’s health. These parasitic worms, known as helminths, can cause a variety of problems, especially if they build up in large numbers. While there are different species of intestinal parasites, certain types are more commonly seen and present the most significant health risks. Understanding how to manage these parasites effectively is key to keeping your horse healthy and well. In this post, we’ll explore the main types of intestinal parasites, how to spot potential problems, and how to manage parasite control in a way that’s both effective and sustainable.
Common Intestinal Parasites in Horses
- Large Strongyles (Strongylus spp.)
These parasites can damage the blood vessels in the intestines, leading to severe complications like blood clots and colic, which can be life-threatening. - Small Strongyles (Cyathostomins spp.)
These are the most common parasites found in horses. Their larvae burrow into the intestinal wall, and when they emerge in large numbers, they can cause serious inflammation and damage. In severe cases, this condition, known as “Larval Cyathostominosis,” can be fatal. - Tapeworms (Anoplocephala perfoliata)
Tapeworms often gather at the junction between the small and large intestine, causing blockages that can lead to discomfort and colic. - Ascarids (Parascaris spp.)
Roundworms are a major issue for foals and young horses. A heavy worm burden can lead to obstructions, lung inflammation, and even hemorrhaging as the larvae move through the lungs.
Signs Your Horse Might Have Intestinal Parasites
The signs of parasite infestations in horses can vary from mild to severe, depending on the type of parasite, the number of worms present, and the horse’s overall health. Some common symptoms may include:
- Weight loss and a decline in condition
- Reduced appetite
- Lethargy or fatigue
- Colic or discomfort
- Diarrhea
- Changes in bloodwork
Early detection and prompt action are crucial to preventing complications, so if your horse shows any of these signs, it’s important to consult with your vet as soon as possible.
Anthelmintic Resistance: A Growing Concern
Historically, deworming horses with anti-parasitic medications (anthelmintics) has been the main way to control intestinal parasites. However, over-reliance on routine deworming schedules has led to the development of drug-resistant parasites, making it harder to keep worm burdens under control.
Since the introduction of deworming drugs in the 1960s, horses were typically treated on a set schedule. While this helped reduce parasite numbers, it also encouraged parasites to evolve and become resistant to the drugs. With no new classes of dewormers in the past 40 years, the challenge of parasite management has only grown.
Targeted Strategic Dosing: A Paradigm Shift
To combat resistance and improve parasite control, a more tailored approach is now recommended. This is known as Targeted Strategic Dosing, which involves assessing each horse’s parasite burden before deciding whether to treat.
Here’s how it works:
- Fecal egg counts (FWECs) measure the number of parasite eggs in the horse’s manure. Horses with low egg counts (fewer than 200 eggs per gram) are not likely to be major contributors to parasite spread and may not need treatment.
- Blood or saliva tests can also help identify specific parasites like tapeworms or encysted small strongyles.
By focusing treatments on the horses that need them the most—those shedding the highest number of eggs—we can avoid unnecessary deworming, slow down resistance, and reduce the potential side effects of medications, such as colic or gastrointestinal upset.
The Role of Gut Health in Parasite Management
While eradicating all parasites may seem like the ideal goal, it’s important to recognize that horses have coexisted with parasites for centuries. A small, manageable parasite load can actually help stimulate the horse’s immune system, building natural resistance.
This is where digestive tract health comes into play. Horses with a healthy digestive system are better equipped to handle parasites naturally. Supporting the digestive tract with SUCCEED® Digestive Conditioning Program® can help maintain a balanced environment, including the essential bacteria, fungi, and protozoa that help keep the hindgut functioning properly.
A healthy digestive tract not only supports the horse’s overall health but can also improve how well they cope with deworming treatments when needed. Parasite management is an ongoing challenge for horse owners, but with the right approach, you can help keep your horse healthy and reduce the risks associated with intestinal worms. By monitoring your horse’s health, using targeted deworming strategies, and supporting complete digestive health, we can optimize parasite control, minimize drug resistance, and promote the long-term well-being of our horses.
