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Our Horse Worm Count Test provides laboratory screening for gastrointestinal parasites in horses and ponies. Also known as a faecal egg count (FEC), this test helps monitor parasite egg shedding and supports informed, targeted worming decisions.
Our laboratory uses microscopic examination to identify gastrointestinal worm eggs, including redworms (strongyles) and ascarids. Where appropriate, we quantify the eggs detected and report the results as eggs per gram (EPG) of faeces, providing an indication of parasite egg shedding.
Regular worm count testing is an important part of responsible parasite management. It helps monitor egg shedding throughout the grazing season, identify horses that may require further attention and support a more targeted approach to worming, helping to reduce unnecessary treatments and the risk of anthelmintic resistance.
Our trained laboratory team carefully processes and reviews each sample. You will receive clear laboratory results, relevant interpretative comments and free after-test advice to help you understand your horse’s results.
Looking for broader screening? Our Combined Horse Worm Count and Lungworm Test also screens for Dictyocaulus arnfieldi, the equine lungworm. This may be particularly relevant for horses grazing alongside donkeys.
Our Horse Worm Count Test uses laboratory microscopy to examine faecal samples for gastrointestinal worm eggs and relevant protozoa.
Our laboratory team identifies parasite eggs where possible and quantifies egg shedding in eggs per gram (EPG). These results help assess pasture contamination risk and support informed parasite-control decisions.
Regular faecal egg counts are an important part of a targeted equine worming programme. They can help reduce unnecessary treatments and support the responsible use of wormers.
We recommend considering this test for:
Collect a fresh faecal sample from your horse using the materials supplied. Follow the collection instructions and return the sample promptly to our laboratory.
We recommend returning samples early in the working week to minimise postal delays.
Important: Routine worm egg counts do not detect encysted small redworm larvae and cannot reliably exclude tapeworm or pinworm infections. These parasites may require additional testing or veterinary guidance.
For horses with potential lungworm exposure, our Combined Horse Worm Count and Lungworm Test provides additional screening for Dictyocaulus arnfieldi.
Our Horse Worm Count Test screens for gastrointestinal parasites relevant to horses and ponies. Our laboratory uses microscopy to identify parasite eggs and provide quantitative results where appropriate.
Your report includes the parasites detected, quantitative worm egg counts where appropriate, and supporting interpretation.
We report worm egg counts in eggs per gram (EPG). Our routine equine reporting threshold is 50 EPG, with findings below this level reported as below detectable limits where applicable.
Our laboratory team reviews each result before issuing the report by email. Free after-test advice is also available.
Please note: Routine microscopy cannot reliably distinguish large from small strongyle eggs or detect encysted small redworm larvae. Tapeworm and pinworm infections may also go undetected because eggs do not always appear in routine faecal samples.
Faecal egg counts reflect parasite egg shedding rather than the total number of worms present. A negative result does not completely exclude infection.
We recommend considering your horse’s age, health, grazing history and previous treatments when interpreting results. Your veterinary surgeon or SQP can advise on any additional testing or treatment requirements.
Worm count: Testing is completed, reviewed and results issued within 24 hours of arrival at our laboratory, calculated in working days.
Please note: Laboratory testing is undertaken Monday to Friday, excluding bank holidays. Weekends and bank holidays are not included in our stated turnaround times.
Sample collection: Collect a fresh faecal sample following the instructions supplied. We recommend returning samples promptly, preferably early in the working week.
This kit contains the materials needed to collect and return one faecal sample to our laboratory.
Select the appropriate parasite test for your animal(s), or use our quick guide to find the most suitable option.
Collect the sample using your test kit and return it to our laboratory using the free, 24-hour tracked delivery which is included in your kit.
The laboratory team analyses your sample and provides a detailed PDF report via email, with access to our clinical team for further guidance if needed.
