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A Serious Parasite and How to Handle It

Parasite control is an essential aspect of horse care, and one of the most concerning worms for horse owners is the redworm (also known as strongyles). Among the different types of redworms, the encysted redworm is particularly problematic due to its ability to hide within the horse's intestinal walls, causing long-term damage.

In this blog, we’ll dive into what encysted redworms are, why they pose a threat to horses, how to recognize the symptoms, and the best ways to treat and prevent them.

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What Are Encysted Redworms?

Encysted redworms are the larvae of strongyles, a group of parasitic worms that infest the gastrointestinal tract of horses. These larvae encyst (become encapsulated) within the wall of the horse’s intestines, particularly in the cecum and large colon, where they can lie dormant for months.

When the larvae eventually emerge from their cysts, they can cause severe inflammation, leading to colic, tissue damage, and gastrointestinal issues. Because of their ability to remain dormant, controlling redworms can be challenging.

Life Cycle of Redworms

Understanding the life cycle of redworms is key to managing them:

1. Infection – Horses ingest redworm larvae from contaminated pastures or feed.
2. Larvae Migrate – Once inside, the larvae travel to the cecum and large intestine, burrowing into the intestinal wall.
3. Encystment – The larvae remain dormant for months, sometimes up to a year.
4. Reemergence – When the larvae "wake up," they return to the intestines, mature, and lay eggs, which are then passed in manure—continuing the cycle.

Why Are Encysted Redworms Dangerous?

Encysted redworms are particularly dangerous because they hide within the intestinal walls, making them difficult to detect and treat. Here’s why they are a serious threat:

• Delayed Emergence – Damage may not appear until months or even a year after infection.
• Colic – Larvae emerging all at once can cause severe inflammation, leading to life-threatening colic.
• Chronic Weight Loss – Horses may lose weight and appear weak, even with normal feeding.
• Gastrointestinal Damage – Long-term infections can lead to scarring and digestive issues.

Symptoms of Encysted Redworm Infection

Identifying encysted redworms can be difficult, but watch for these signs:

✅ Colic – Severe abdominal pain, especially when larvae emerge.
✅ Weight Loss – Despite a normal appetite, the horse may become thinner.
✅ Lethargy – Reduced energy levels and a dull coat.
✅ Diarrhea or Constipation – Disruptions in digestion.
✅ Pale Gums or Anemia – Blood loss from prolonged infestation.

Treatment for Encysted Redworms

If your horse shows symptoms of redworm infection, take action quickly:

1. Deworming Medication – Use targeted dewormers like EQuest or EQuest Pramox, which kill encysted larvae.
2. Veterinary Advice – Always consult your vet to ensure the correct medication and dosage.
3. Deworming Schedule – Your vet can help create a custom deworming plan to prevent reinfection.

Prevention of Encysted Redworms

Preventing redworm infections is easier than treating them. Follow these steps:

✅ Regular Deworming – Stick to a deworming schedule based on your horse’s needs.
✅ Pasture Management – Remove manure regularly to prevent larvae spread.
✅ Limit Contaminated Areas – Avoid grazing in muddy, manure-rich environments where larvae thrive.
✅ Faecal Egg Counts – Monitor your horse’s parasite load before treatment.
✅ Good Nutrition & Health – A strong immune system helps horses resist infections.

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