How to Treat Pinworms in Horses

Keeping your horse healthy includes treating for pinworms.

Pinworms are small parasites that infect the digestive tract of horses. Adult pinworms lay eggs around the horse's anus, causing irritation and itching. The most common symptom of a pinworm infection is tail rubbing, which can cause stress, sores and loss of hair on the rear end of your horse. Pinworms don't generally cause severe health problems by themselves, but the irritation can cause your horse distress. Pinworms should be treated as soon as possible.

Things You'll Need

• Deworming medication

Instructions

1. Initiate a regular program of deworming medication. Seek the advice of your veterinarian. She can help you choose the best dewormer for your area and situation.

2. Dispose of manure properly. Manure should be spread or composted in non-grazing areas.

3. Place feed in containers off the ground to avoid feces mixing with food.

4. Change water often. Water should be clean at all times to help prevent infection.

Tips & Warnings

• Pinworms, as with other parasites, can become resistant to deworming medication. Discuss a rotation program with your vet.

References

• The Horse: Tail Rubbing Problem by Robert E. Holland, Jr. DVM, PhD.
• University Extension: Pinworms in Horses by Craig Wood, University of Kentucky
• University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service: Controlling Internal Parasites of the Horse by E.T. Lyons, Parasitologist and others