(Dictyocaulus arnfieldi)
Lungworm can cause coughing and respiratory difficulty in horses, although they are relatively uncommon. Lungworm is more common in donkeys and risk increases when horses and donkeys graze together
Horses become infected by eating the worm larvae from the pasture. The larvae will then move to the lungs, where they become adult. These adults, living in the airways, can cause obstruction leading to coughing and breathlessness. The adults lay eggs which are coughed up and swallowed to then be passed out in the droppings; thus continuing the cycle.
Lungworm - treatment options and resistance
| Fenbendazole | Pyrantel | Ivermectin | Moxidectin | Praziquantel | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dictyocaulus arnfieldi | Not indicated | Not indicated | Effective against adults andlarval stages1 | Not indicated | Not indicated | |
1 Not all authorised products have this indication
Source: Canter Guidelines
Remains effective for indicated use
Resistance emerging or suspected
Some resistance reported – FECRT should be performed
Resistance common – should only be used with supportive FECRT results
Not indicated for use for treatment
