Occurrence of strongyles (Strongylidae) in horses from small farms on the basis of necropsy.

The study investigates the occurrence of strongyles, a type of parasitic worm, in the large intestines of horses on small farms in southern Poland. Analysis revealed that a high proportion of the horses were infected with strongyles, suggesting this should be considered when diagnosing colic in working horses on small farms.

Research Methodology and Findings

• The research involved a post-mortem examination of 41 working horses from small farms in southern Poland. Here, the researchers specifically examined three parts of the horse’s large intestine: the dorsal colon, the ventral colon, and the caecum.
• During the examination, researchers identified five species of large strongyles, which are a type of parasitic worm that infests the intestines of horses. Of these five species, three are migratory species from the genus Strongylus and two are non-migratory species from the genus Triodontophorus.
• Researchers also identified 17 species of cyathostomes, also known as small strongyles. Cyathostomes are another type of parasitic worm that can infest horses’ intestines.
• The research data showed a prevalence of the different strongyle species in the horses examined. 80.5% of horses carried Strongylus vulgaris, 9.8% had S. equinus, and 4.9% harboured S. edentatus. To add, Triodontophorus serratus was found in 19.5% of the horses, while T. brevicauda was present in 7.3%.
• In terms of cyathostomes, Cyathostomum catinatum and Coronocyclus coronatus were both present in 31.7% of horses. Meanwhile, 24.4% of horses had both Cylicostephanus calicatus and Cylicocyclus nassatus, and 19.5% were infested with C. ashworthi.

Implication of the Findings

• The high prevalence of S. vulgaris among all the strongyles found suggests that infection with this parasite is widespread among the horse population in small farms in southern Poland.
• The researchers recommended that this parasitic infection be considered when trying to diagnose colic in working horses. Colic, a common and potentially lethal digestive disorder in horses, can have various causes, including parasitic infection.
• This research may have significant implications for veterinary medicine, particularly for veterinarians working with horses in small farm settings. Effective management and treatment of strongyle infection could potentially reduce cases of colic, improving horse health outcomes and reducing mortality.