Back in the meadow: how to worm effectively?

ARTICLE written by Cheval Partage - Read the full article here!

With the arrival of spring, our equine companions are getting ready to return to lush green pastures. However, this season also brings the dreaded return of pasture worms, requiring strategic deworming to ensure your horses' well-being.

Navigating the multitude of wormers available can be confusing. With different suppliers, different molecules and sometimes uninformed riders, it's time to demystify the worming process to ensure optimum protection for your horse.

General principles of deworming

The efficacy of a dewormer is based on two pillars: its temporal efficacy, linked to the period of administration, and its molecular efficacy, dependent on the molecules used.

Temporal efficacy of dewormers

It's crucial to understand that not all worms are present in all seasons. Therefore, worming a horse against parasites that are not present at a given time may compromise the effectiveness of the treatment against those that are. A mistake in the choice of dewormer can result in ineffective action against the targeted parasites, or even reduce the effectiveness of the essential product.

What's more, this can be detrimental to tighter budgets, leading to the purchase of dewormers that are not only unnecessary but also neglect the essentials.

Molecular effectiveness

The molecules contained in dewormers differ in their action on parasites. For example, ivermectin and moxidectin target strongyles and roundworms, while tetrahydropyrimidines repel tapeworms. A list of common dewormers is provided, offering a practical guide to choice.

To guarantee the effectiveness of the molecule used, a table of the main components is suggested, enabling an informed selection to be made.

Administration of the dewormer: Essential precautions

It is essential to follow the prescribed doses exactly. The syringes, graduated every 100 kg, require precise knowledge of the horse's weight in order to adapt the dosage. Too much or too little can lead to undesirable effects or ineffective treatment.

Attention to storage dates is also emphasised, recommending purchase just before use or proper storage in a cool place.

After worming, the author stresses the need to remove dung from the pasture or stall, change the pasture if necessary, and worm all horses in contact to avoid re-infestation.

Deeper into reasoned deworming

The article encourages a more nuanced approach to worming. Instead of a systematic approach, the reasoned option, tailored to the horse's individual health, is explored. A complementary YouTube video offers more in-depth details.

Spring: Focus on Concerned Worms

The spring season brings roundworms, strongyles, roundworms and pinworms to the fore. The article recommends worming before the return to fat grass, in March/April, with ivermectin or moxidectin.

The adaptation/assimilation paradox

Some thought was given to the regular change of dewormer, highlighting the adaptation of parasites to the molecules used. A balance is suggested, alternating molecules to maximise efficacy without compromising assimilation by the horse.

Conclusion on Deworming Horses

For deworming to be effective, it is crucial to select the right molecule, check the components of the dewormer and comply with the correct doses and precautions for use. Treating all horses that come into contact with it, cleaning living areas and considering coprology beforehand all contribute to a holistic approach.

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