Frequently asked questions about FECPAK for sheep
How many tests per season should I be doing?
A single FEC is of no real help in providing decision-making information, FEC must be carried out regularly at certain times of the year. Between 30–90 composite tests per season would be fairly standard.
How long does a FECPAK test take?
Once you have your sample, the average time is around 15 minutes. The more you do the easier it is and many clients take about 10 minutes.
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. A few thousand farmers can’t be wrong!
Can you tell the difference between the different species by looking at the eggs?
Eggs can be counted into two basic groups, Nematodirus and Strongyle. These two groups are very easy to differentiate. Since treatment options are normally broad spectrum, identification of the individual species is not normally required.
How can I justify the purchase of the system?
In addition to the savings in drench and labour, the cost of undetected drench resistance on farming system is “considerable”. It is not uncommon to find undetected production losses in excess of 30 grams per day occurring due to drench resistance. Multiply this by the number of animals you finish and your average kill date and you will soon recover the cost.
I farm organically – how can FECPAK help me?
As an organic farmer you have no “therapy in a drum” options and so need to take a holistic approach to parasite management. Contamination mapping and the information generated by using FECPAK to do regular FEC will be essential to accurately planning and fine tuning your grazing management.
Can I use FECPAK to monitor worms in my cattle too?
The FECPAK kit can be used for cattle as well as sheep, take a look at our cattle FECPAK page or contact us for further information.
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 flock.
