Equine roundworms, or Parascaris equorum, are parasites that usually affect younger horses. The disease is especially common in horses raised on pastures that are used for new foals on a yearly basis. These pastures usually have a high number of Parascaris equorum eggs, which horses will eat while they graze. After the horse ingests these eggs, and the eggs hatch, roundworms will infect various organs, causing illness to occur.
Common symptoms of a roundworm infection include respiratory signs such as coughing and pneumonia, colic, pain in the abdomen, depression, and failure to thrive. A high concentration of roundworms may cause life-threatening intestinal rupture or obstruction.
Treatment and prevention of Parascaris equorum require a regular deworming schedule for all horses that are out to pasture, and good pasture management.
