Occurrence and risk factors associated with gastrointestinal parasitism in horses reared in different systems.

The research article examines the prevalence and risk factors of gastrointestinal parasites in horses managed in different rearing systems. The study was conducted in the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil, collecting samples from 208 horses living in extensive, semi-extensive, and intensive rearing systems.

Study Overview

• The study aimed to understand the variations in the occurrence and risk factors for gastrointestinal parasites in horses managed in different systems.
• The need for this research comes from the role of parasites in equine health, affecting various aspects like growth, productivity, and overall well-being of the horse.
• A total of 208 samples were collected from horses – 91 from extensive, 64 from semi-extensive, and 53 from intensive rearing systems.

Findings

• The most common parasite found was from the Strongylida order, with a prevalence rate of 80.29%. Other identified parasites included Parascaris equorum, Oxyuris equi, and Anoplocephala spp. with relatively lesser occurrence.
• Detailed analysis of the Strongylida order parasites revealed a variety of species including Strongylus vulgaris, S. edentatus, S. equinus, Triodontophorus spp., and Trichostrongylus axei amongst others.
• Additionally, Cryptosporidium spp., a type of protozoan, was identified in 13% of the samples.
• The study found that horses reared extensively had a higher proportion of infection and a greater risk of infection overall.
• In terms of co-grazing with cattle, the results indicated a comparatively lower risk of cyathostomin infection.
• Collectively, the study underscored a high occurrence of gastrointestinal parasites, particularly those of the Strongylida order in the horses tested. Management variables were identified as significant risk factors, thereby reinforcing their role in mitigating parasitism in horses.

Implications

• The findings provide useful insights for veterinarians and horse owners, correlating the management of horses with their vulnerability to parasitic infections.
• The identification of risk factors can guide the development of preventive strategies to tackle equine parasitism and in turn, enhance their health, growth, and productivity.
• Moreover, the focus on different rearing methods also extends the applicability of these findings in various settings, aiding both small-scale horse keepers and large equine establishments.