What do the results of my horse's faecal egg count mean and what does a worm count test for? For each horse on the result sheet there will be a number indicating the level of worm eggs found.
Your worm EGG count results
0 <50 epg no eggs seen
The sign < means ‘less than’, so a result of <50 epg means that we could find no trace of worm eggs when the sample was tested. (epg means ‘eggs per gram’). If you are following a reduced worming programme you will not need to worm at this level. NB. It is very common for a result to come back as <50 epg no eggs seen.
less than 200 epg (Low count)
If the count is less than 200 epg then it is a LOW count and your worming measures are working. If you are following a reduced worming plan you may still want to delay the next dose at this level.
200 epg - 1175 epg (Medium count)
If the count is between 200 epg and 1200 epg it is a MEDIUM count and the horse needs worming. Please contact us for which wormer to administer.
1200 epg or more (High count)
If the count is more than 1200 epg it is a HIGH count, the horse needs worming and the worming programme needs attention. Contact our award winning team for further help by email, messenger or telephone.
A reduction test is recommended 10-14 days after treatment of high counts to ensure efficacy of the product. These can be purchased on the website.
Which worms are covered by a faecal egg count test?
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 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.
Worm egg counts are not a definitive test for TAPEWORM EGGS, although though these don’t always show on a count. Your horse could still have tapeworm even if no eggs are seen. Use the Equisal saliva test for tapeworm twice a year for a reliable way to monitor tapeworm infections.
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?
If you need any further help with your result, worming programme or worming in general please do not hesitate to get in touch and we will do our best to answer your questions. If you have any concerns about your horse’s health then you should consult your vet.
How long does it take to get results?
We aim to test the faecal worm egg count samples on the day they arrive and your results will be sent promptly by email or text usually. The post can take anywhere between 1-6 days to reach us. If you sample arrives after 6 days we will be in touch to retest.