Equine Parasite Lifecycle Stage 1
Equine Internal Parasites
Internal parasites of horses live in one of two places: in the horse's environment as larvae (typically pastures) or inside the horse. Once inside the horse, the larvae mature and may migrate to various areas of the horse, such as the stomach, intestine, lungs or blood vessels. Each parasite has a specific life cycle, but in general they follow the pattern below:
There are a lot of different internal parasites, but some are especially important because they could be a significant health threat to horses. The nature and extent of damage varies with the type of parasites. They can cause anemia, weight loss, colic, diarrhea, reduced reproductive and athletic performance, poor growth, and immune system suppression.
The most common and important types of internal parasites in horses:
• Nematodes, primarily small strongyles, cyathostomins. (Due to traditional parasite control programs involving rotational treatment, large strongyles (S. vulgaris) are now rare in managed horse populations)
• Tapeworms (Anoplocephala perfoliata)
• Roundworms (Parascaris spp.) in foals and weanlings
ZIMECTERIN GOLD IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION: ZIMECTERIN GOLD Paste may be used in horses two months of age or older. ZIMECTERIN GOLD has not been tested in breeding, pregnant or lactating mares, and breeding stallions. There have been rare reports of swelling and irritation of the mouth, lips, and tongue following administration of ZIMECTERIN GOLD. These reactions have been transitory in nature. This product should not be used in other animal species as severe adverse reactions, including fatalities in dogs, may result. Not for use in humans. Keep this and all drugs out of reach of children. Refrain from smoking and eating when handling. Wash hands after use. Refer to the package insert for complete product information.
ZIMECTERIN IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION: Not for use in humans. Keep this and all drugs out of reach of children. Do not use in other animal species as severe adverse reactions, including fatalities in dogs, may result. Ivermectin and excreted ivermectin residues may adversely affect aquatic organisms. Do not contaminate ground or surface water. Dispose of the syringe in an approved landfill or by incineration.
1. AAEP Parasite Control Guidelines Available at: https://aaep.org/sites/default/files/Documents/InternalParasiteGuidelinesFinal5.23.19_0.pdf. Accessed Nov. 16, 2020.
2. Kaplan RM, et al. Prevalence of anthelmintic -resistant cyathostomes on horse farms. J AM Vet Med Assoc. 2004;225(6):903-910.
3. McFarlane D, Hale GM, Johnson EM, Maxwell LK. Fecal egg counts after anthelmintic administration to aged horses and horses with pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction. J AM Vet Assoc. 2010; 236(3):331.
4. ZIMECTERIN Gold Product Label.
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