How do I use worm counts?

A faecal worm egg count mainly counts the number of large or small redworm (Strongyle / Cyathostome) eggs in your horse's droppings.

Redworms are the most significant roundworms affecting horse health.

This count is reported as the number of eggs per gram.

Redworms are the main concern from Spring through to the start of Winter.

The number of eggs is an indication of the number of mature worms shedding eggs on the day of testing and therefore whether your horse needs worming.

Other eggs or significant parasites will be mentioned if they are seen.

Targeted worming

There are many different suggestions for a targeted worming programme.

A summary would be:

Encysted redworm can't be detected - treat for it at some point over Winter (Moxidectin)
Tapeworm have a 6 month life cycle. Treat twice a year. Winter/Summer or Spring/Autumn.

From Spring, test regularly with a faecal egg count. Treat for redworms if count is high.

As an example , many of our clients follow this kind of protocol -

Treat in November/December for everything - including encysted redworm

February/ March get faecal egg count done (FEC) - treat for redworm if needed

May/June get FEC. If count is low, treat (or test) for tapeworm

If count is high treat for redworm and treat/test for tapeworm

Aug/Sept FEC Treat for redworm if count is high.