Worm Count Results

Equine worm egg count results explained 

A faecal worm egg count tests for adult, egg laying redworm and ascarids.

For each horse on the result sheet there will be a number indicating the level of worm eggs found. 

Worm egg count results are given in eggs per gram to the nearest 25 (e.p.g).

 

 

REDWORM (STRONGYLE)

Usually your result will say STRONGYLE EGGS. This is a collective term for small and large redworm, the most common parasites that affect horses.

Worm egg counts show all but encysted stages of small redworm as these are not mature so don't lay eggs to be counted in the dung sample. It is important to treat these with an effective product in the winter months (Dec-Feb) then you can rely on worm counts for the remainder of the year.

ROUNDWORM (ASCARID)

We may find ASCARIDS. This is roundworm, usually only a problem in foals and previously neglected horses. Any sign of these requires treatment usually.  The old fashioned drugs such as Pyrantel & Fenbendazole have the least resistance for ascarids treatment but if not sue please get in touch.

What should I do now I Have the results?

Using the parasite risk profile of your horse helps determine what the best plan and treatment is for your horse. You can work out your horse's parasite risk here. Then use the table below to work out your next steps.

Redworm:

<25 e.p.g. or <50 e.p.g. = NO EGGS SEEN Low Risk = No treatment required No eggs seen in the sample provided. This result shows that your parasite management is working so please consider the risk factors. If low risk then no treatment is needed. Medium/High Risk = Possible Treatment Required If medium/high risk and no winter treatment given already you may want to consider giving one now.

Up to 175 e.p.g = LOW COUNT  Low Risk = No treatment required This result shows that your parasite management is ok so if you have dosed in the winter and a healthy adult low risk  horse no treatment needed. Medium/High Risk = Possible Treatment Required If medium/high risk and no winter treatment given already you may want to consider giving one now. Any roundworm (ascarids) warrants treatment even if over 4 use Panacur 5 day guard rather than moxidectin. Moxidectin & ivermectin don't treat it effectively now due to resistance.

Between 200 e.p.g and 1175 e.p.g = MEDIUM COUNT - Treatment Required If treated with moxidectin in the winter then use ivermectin now.  If used Panacur 5 day guard in the winter then use Equest now. Reduction test 10-14 days after treatment to check for resistance.

Over 1200 e.p.g = HIGH COUNT Treatment Required If treated with moxidectin in the winter then try either Panacur 5 day guard/ivermectin now.  If used Panacur 5 day guard in the winter then use Equest now and pasture management needs attention to reduce parasite risk and re-infection, e.g. poo picking or rest & rotation/cross grazing. Reduction test 10-14 days after treatment to check for resistance.

TREATMENT THRESHOLDS EXPLAINED

Moxidectin is suitable for most horses including pregnant mares but please ensure they have sufficient bodyweight as it's stored in the body fat so its not always suitable for very lean, rescue horses or licensed for Donkey's.  Horses under 1 year old will be better to have Panacur 5 day guard this winter please

 

How long does it take to get results?

We aim to test the faecal worm egg count samples on the day they arrive with us in the lab. Results will then be sent promptly by email or text.  The postal service can take anywhere between 1-6 days to reach us, even when using first class. 

If your sample arrives after 6 days we will be in touch to retest as it will be too old for an accurate result.

Please note that a worm egg count tests for adult, egg laying parasites. Depending on the stage of their lifecycle, they may not show up in a single sample. A negative results does not always therefore mean the animal is worm free and is why a targeted parasite control plan suggests testing every 8-12 weeks, based on the parasite lifecycle, to ensure a parasite burden doesn't get out of hand.

For advice on how to take an sample to ensure an accurate result - read this