Identification of gastrointestinal nematode species in an equestrian park in terengganu

An abstract of the research paper presented to the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, in partial requirement on the course DVT 55204 – Research Project. The gastrointestinal nematode infestation is one of the most important parasitic diseases that can result in a reduction in performance and growth of horses. This study was done to identify the type of gastrointestinal nematodes in stabled horses in an equestrian park in Terengganu in 2022. A total of 31 horses of various signalment were selected for this study. Fresh faecal samples were collected from the horses rectally. The samples were then processed using modified McMaster faecal egg count test and faecal culture. Out of the 31 faecal samples collected, 26 horses (84%) showed positive for gastrointestinal nematode egg, predominantly strongyle eggs. Upon faecal culture and identification of L3, it was found that the only larvae identified was the cyathostomins.
Keywords: Gastrointestinal nematode, faecal sample, modified McMaster faecal egg count, faecal culture, stabled horses