Article:
Worm infestation is a major problem faced by goat owners, which can significantly reduce the health, productivity, and profitability of their herds. Worms or parasites can cause diarrhea, weight loss, anemia, lethargy, poor growth, and even death if left untreated. Therefore, it is essential to implement an effective deworming program and proper management practices to prevent and control worm infestation in goats.
The following are some of the common types of worms that affect goats and their treatment options:
1. Barber pole worm (Haemonchus contortus): This is one of the most prevalent and deadly worm species that thrive in warm and humid climates. They feed on the goat’s blood and cause anemia, edema, and death. The treatment for this worm is anthelmintics such as benzimidazoles (albendazole, fenbendazole, oxfendazole), imidazothiazoles (levamisole), and macrocyclic lactones (ivermectin, moxidectin). However, over-reliance on anthelmintics can lead to the development of resistance and ineffective treatment.
2. Stomach worms (Trichostrongylus spp.): These worms live in the goat’s abomasum and can cause gastritis, diarrhea, and weight loss. The treatment for stomach worms is the same as barber pole worms, and it is recommended to rotate between classes of anthelmintics to avoid resistance.
3. Lungworms (Dictyocaulus spp.): These worms live in the goat’s lungs and airways and can cause coughing, pneumonia, and death in severe cases. The treatment for lungworms is also anthelmintics, but it is better to prevent them by avoiding pasture grazing when the grass is wet and during the rainy season.
4. Tapeworms (Moniezia spp.): These worms live in the goat’s intestine and can cause diarrhea, abdominal pain, and intestinal blockage. The treatment for tapeworms is praziquantel, which is an effective anthelmintic for this species.
Apart from deworming, there are other management practices that goat owners can implement to reduce the risk of worm infestation. These include:
1. Pasture management: Goats should graze on clean, well-maintained pastures with plenty of forage and no or minimal exposure to feces. Overcrowding and overgrazing can lead to accumulation and spread of worm eggs.
2. Fecal egg count (FEC): This is a diagnostic tool to determine the level of worm infestation in a herd. It involves collecting fecal samples from several goats and analyzing them for the presence and amount of worm eggs. FEC can help to identify high-risk individuals for deworming and reduce the frequency and quantity of anthelmintics used.
3. Sanitation: Goats should be housed in clean, dry, and well-ventilated shelters that are regularly cleaned and disinfected to reduce the buildup of worm larvae and other pathogens.
In summary, worm infestation is a significant challenge for goat owners, but it can be controlled through a combination of deworming and management practices. Goats should be dewormed based on their age, weight, fecal egg count, and the type of worm infestation. Moreover, preventive measures such as pasture management, FEC, and sanitation should be implemented to reduce the risk of worm infestation and the development of resistance. Always consult a veterinarian for the best treatment and management plan for your goats.