Why extra testing in summer?

We are sometimes asked why fecal testing four times a year is necessary and why twice isn’t enough. Fecal testing is only reliable when done frequently. It is essential to monitor the worm cycle closely. The cycle of the most common intestinal worm (small strongyle) is 6 to 8 weeks. If a horse is sensitive or has lowered immunity, the worm population can quickly grow, leading to an infection. If you go 5 to 6 months without testing, your horse may already be showing symptoms, or it becomes difficult to break the cycle, resulting in recurring infections. During the summer, infection pressure increases, which is why we advise no more than 2 months between tests. This way, you can effectively monitor the cycle and treat in time if necessary.

Related Blogs

How do I interpret the results?

A manure test alone does not determine whether a horse needs treatment. The questionnaire, the horse’s health and age, seasonal parasite pressure, and existing records also help assess whether treatment is appropriate.

Worm aneurysm vs Cyathostominosis

Worm aneurysm and cyathostominosis are often confused, but they are two completely different conditions, each with its own risks. In this blog we clearly explain what both problems are, how they develop and why good worm management is so important to prevent them.

My horse tested positive, but does not need treatment – how is that possible?

It can be confusing: you have a fecal test done and the result comes back positive. Yet, the advice is not to treat. How is that possible? We’ll explain.

 

WhatsApp