Fall routinely worming for your equine partner's

Worming horses in the fall is an essential part of their overall parasite control program. During this time of year, certain internal parasites, particularly small strongyles (cyathostomes), begin to encyst or hibernate in the horse’s intestinal walls. If not addressed, these encysted larvae can emerge all at once in late winter or early spring, potentially causing serious health problems such as colic or severe diarrhea. Fall is also when horses are most likely to have ingested bot fly larvae, which attach to the stomach lining after being ingested during grooming. Deworming with products containing ivermectin or moxidectin in the fall effectively targets these larvae before they can cause damage over the winter months. Additionally, reducing the number of adult parasites in a horse’s system before winter helps minimize egg shedding into the environment, lowering the risk of pasture contamination. Since parasite development slows during colder months, fall deworming gives the horse a healthier start to the next grazing season. Overall, worming in the fall helps protect the horse’s health through the winter and plays a key role in long-term parasite management.

From October to December, it is recommended to use dewormers that effectively target both bots and encysted small strongyles, as these parasites become a greater concern in the fall and early winter months. Products like Quest (moxidectin) and Quest Plus (moxidectin + praziquantel) are ideal choices during this time because moxidectin not only treats adult parasites but also targets encysted larvae, while praziquantel adds coverage against tapeworms. Equimax (ivermectin + praziquantel) and Zimecterin Gold (ivermectin + praziquantel) are also excellent options, providing broad-spectrum parasite control including bots and tapeworms. Using any of these dewormers in the late fall helps reduce the horse’s parasite load before winter, minimize egg shedding on pastures, and prevent health complications associated with parasite burdens. Choosing the most appropriate product depends on your horse’s fecal egg count results, age, health status, and local parasite risk, so consulting with a veterinarian is always advised for the most effective and responsible treatment plan.

A few things you can give your horse alongside a wormer to help make the treatment more effective and support their digestive system. Adding a probiotic or prebiotic supplement after worming can be beneficial, as wormers can sometimes disrupt the natural balance of gut bacteria. These supplements help restore healthy gut flora, which supports digestion and the immune system. You can also feed a gut balancer or a digestive aid, which helps soothe the digestive tract and encourages recovery, especially if your horse is prone to loose droppings or a sensitive stomach. Providing good-quality forage and maintaining proper hydration also supports the horse’s system in flushing out dead parasites and easing any mild discomfort that may follow worming. While these additions don’t make the wormer itself stronger, they can help your horse recover more smoothly and maintain overall health. Always consult with your vet before adding supplements to ensure they’re appropriate for your horse’s individual needs.

In conclusion, worming your horses in the coming fall and winter months is always beneficial, as the risk of parasite-related issues can increase as horses spend more time in close grazing areas and stabled environments, where worms can thrive. Worming helps reduce the parasite burden, protecting your horse’s health and preventing problems like weight loss, colic, and poor coat condition. When combined with good nutrition, digestive support, and proper seasonal care, worming becomes a key part of maintaining your horse’s wellbeing throughout the colder months. Regular worming, guided by a proper worming plan or fecal egg count, ensures your horse stays healthy and ready for the season ahead.