Frequently asked questions about Equine FECPAK
What is Faecal Egg Counting?
Faecal Egg Counting (FEC) is a simple diagnostic technique, which calculates the number of internal parasite eggs per gram of faeces. A strong relationship exists between the number of eggs per gram and the parasite status of the animal tested so FEC information is critical to making informed parasite management and treatment decisions.
What does a FEC test involve?
The test involves collecting the faecal sample then adding a ratio of water : saline (saturated salt water). The prepared sample is then placed in a special slide to go under the microscope and the number of parasite eggs are counted. Full instructions and diagrams are provided with every kit.
Are the microscopes hard to use?
This is probably one of the easiest parts of the test. Think of a microscope as “binoculars on a stick”, nothing more.
Can you tell the difference between the different species by looking at the eggs?
Both Large and Small Stronglyes can be seen although it is not easy to differentiate between the two groups. However our treatment options are normally broad spectrum, so identification of the individual species is not normally required. Other species that can be seen are Ascarids, Strongyloides Westeri and Tapeworm.
How can I justify the purchase of the system?
Anthelmintic treatments for horses are not cheap so if you are able to cut this down to the minimum actually required then you will see a major reduction in spend on wormer treatments. FECPAK also cuts out the need for sending samples away for analysis giving you instant results when required. If you have several horses this cost saving can be considerable. Very few horse owners test the effectiveness of their wormers. A post worming test using the FECPAK is the easiest way to ensure that the money and time you have invested in worming your horses has been cost effective.
Is the threat of resistant worms real?
There is already widespread evidence of resistance to both Benzimidazoles (Fenbendazole) and Pyrantel in the UK and it is likely only a matter of time before resistance to Macrocyclic lactones (Ivermectin and Moxidectin) develops.
Can FECPAK be used to monitor for tapeworms?
You will be able to see tapeworm eggs using the FECPAK but FEC will not accurately diagnose Tapeworm burden. The encysted stages of Small Strongyles also cannot be detected.
Do you have the right tools?
Contact us on 01970 828236 or email enquiries@innovis.org.uk for more information on FECPAK and to discuss how FECPAK can help you to better control parasites in your horses.