Epsilon Archive for Student Projects

Abstract

Trots att selektiv avmaskning baserad på träckprov har blivit normen bland Sveriges hästhållare sedan receptkravet infördes 2007 kvarstår parasitrelaterade utmaningar. Resistensutveckling hos parasiter utgör dessutom ett växande problem, eftersom inga nya avmaskningsmedel har introducerats på flera decennier. Detta understryker vikten av en långsiktigt hållbar parasitkontroll som bygger på förebyggande åtgärder. Träckprovsbaserad diagnostik och selektiv avmaskning är viktiga verktyg, men behöver kompletteras med genomtänkta stallrutiner samt åtgärder som minskar smittrycket i betesmiljön. Syftet med studien var att kartlägga svenska hästhållares rutiner kring parasitkontroll, med fokus på träckprov, avmaskning och beteshantering. Studien genomfördes som en kombinerad litteraturöversikt och webbenkät riktad till svenska hästhållare. Totalt påbörjade 236 respondenter enkäten, varav 140 fullföljde samtliga frågor. Data analyserades med deskriptiv statistik samt korsanalyser. Resultaten visar att träckprovstagnin

Although selective deworming based on fecal sampling has become the norm among Swedish horse owners since the prescription requirement was introduced in 2007, parasite-related challenges remain. The development of parasite resistance also constitutes a growing problem, as no new anthelmintic drugs have been introduced for several decades. This highlights the importance of a long-term sustainable parasite control strategy based on preventive measures. Fecal diagnostics and selective deworming are important tools, but they need to be complemented by well-designed stable management practices and measures aimed at reducing parasite transmission on pasture. The aim of the study was to investigate Swedish horse owners’ routines regarding parasite control, with a particular focus on fecal sampling, deworming strategies, and pasture management. The study was conducted as a combined literature review and web-based survey directed at Swedish horse owners. In total, 236 respondents initiated the survey, of whom 140 completed all questions. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and cross-tabulations. The results show that fecal sampling is well established, as 86% of respondents had performed analyses on clinically healthy horses during the past year. The majority chose to combine fecal egg counts with extended analyses for strongyles, while 12% relied solely on fecal egg counts. Cost
was reported as the most common barrier to regular fecal sampling (55%), while fecal egg count reduction tests (FECRT) following deworming were rarely performed among horse owners (4–5%). As FECRT and supplementary analyses entail additional costs, this may affect how frequently these diagnostic tools are used.
Regarding pasture hygiene, 48–56% reported that they never remove feces from their summer pastures, despite the generally higher infection pressure during the grazing season. Although deworming upon the arrival of new horses is recommended, several respondents chose to deworm the horses before departure. Overall, the results indicate that Swedish horse owners largely implement routines in accordance with current recommendations for parasite control, although compliance varies in practice. Economic and practical factors appear to be important limitations. The findings highlight a need for continued guidance regarding deworming and biosecurity practices to support sustainable long-term parasite control.