Worming, also known as deworming, is the process of treating horses for internal parasites, most commonly roundworms, tapeworms, bots, and other intestinal worms. Worming is an important part of horse care and should not be overlooked. Without regular worming, horses can become seriously ill or even die.
Why is Worming Important?
Worming is important because it helps keep horses healthy and helps prevent the spread of parasites. Parasites can cause a variety of health problems in horses, including colic, weight loss, poor nutrition, and anemia. Worms can also reduce a horse’s appetite and energy level, making them more vulnerable to other illnesses.
When Should You Worm a Horse?
The frequency of worming depends on a number of factors, including the type of worms present, the horse’s age and health, the weather, and the environment. Generally, horses should be wormed at least twice a year, with more frequent worming recommended for horses in high-risk environments, such as those that are exposed to mud and standing water.
What to Consider Before Worming?
Before worming a horse, it is important to consider the following factors:
- Age: Foals should be wormed more frequently than adult horses.
- Environment: Horses in high-risk environments, such as those that are exposed to mud and standing water, should be wormed more frequently.
- Health: Horses with compromised immune systems should be wormed more frequently.
- Type of Worms: Different types of worms require different types of worming treatments.
Types of Worms
The most common types of worms found in horses include:
- Roundworms: These are the most common type of worm in horses and can cause colic, diarrhea, weight loss, and poor nutrition.
- Tapeworms: These worms can cause colic, diarrhea, and poor nutrition. They are more difficult to diagnose than other types of worms.
- Bots: These are small worms that attach themselves to the horse’s stomach lining and can cause colic and weight loss.
- Other Intestinal Worms: These include threadworms, large strongyles, and small strongyles, which can cause diarrhea, weight loss, and anemia.
How to Worm a Horse
There are several ways to worm a horse, including:
- Paste Wormers: These are administered orally and can be used to treat a variety of worms. They are easy to use and can be purchased at most feed stores.
- Injectable Wormers: These are injected into the horse’s neck or shoulder and can be used to treat tapeworms and bots. They are more expensive but can be more effective than paste wormers.
- Oral Wormers: These are administered orally and can be used to treat a variety of worms. They are more expensive than paste wormers but can be more effective.
- Topical Wormers: These are applied directly to the horse’s skin and can be used to treat roundworms and other intestinal worms. They are safe and easy to use.
Precautions When Worming
When worming a horse, it is important to take the following precautions:
- Do not use expired or contaminated wormers.
- Do not use a wormer that is not labeled for use in horses.
- Do not use a wormer that is not labeled for the type of worms present.
- Do not use a wormer that is not labeled for the horse’s age and health.
- Do not use a wormer that is not labeled for the horse’s environment.
Signs of Worms
It is important to be aware of the signs of worms in horses, which include:
- Colic
- Diarrhea
- Weight loss
- Poor nutrition
- Anemia
- Lethargy
Treating Horses for Worms
It is important to treat horses for worms as soon as possible. Treatment should include the following steps:
- Identify the type of worms present.
- Consult a veterinarian for advice on the best worming treatment.
- Administer the wormer according to the instructions on the package.
- Monitor the horse for signs of worms.
- Repeat the worming treatment as needed.
Conclusion
Worming is an important part of horse care. Horses should be wormed at least twice a year, but the frequency may need to be increased depending on the horse’s age, health, environment, and type of worms present. It is important to use the correct wormer and to follow the instructions on the package. It is also important to monitor the horse for signs of worms and to repeat the worming treatment as needed.