Rethinking Deworming: A New Approach to Equine Parasite Control Involving the Gut Microbiome

Course overview

Equine parasite control is evolving from a primarily drug-based approach toward a more integrated understanding of the gastrointestinal tract as a complex ecosystem. This session examines the interactions among the equine host, intestinal microbiome, and cyathostomin populations, with emphasis on their implications for clinical management. Cyathostomin life stages, including encysted larvae and larval emergence, are associated with changes in mucosal integrity and inflammatory responses that may influence microbial stability. Conversely, alterations in the gut microbiome resulting from anthelmintic administration, dietary change, stress, or pasture management practices may affect parasite dynamics and disease risk in susceptible horses. Participants will review current evidence regarding these interactions and discuss how they inform sustainable parasite control strategies, including targeted deworming and management practices aimed at maintaining gastrointestinal health and microbial diversity. Emerging research on nematode-associated microbiota will also be introduced, including its potential role in parasite development and host interaction, and the implications for future control strategies.