Assessment of risk factors associated with prevalence of strongyle infection in equines from Central Plain Zone, Punjab

A total of 311 equine faecal samples (190 horses and 121 mules) collected from six districts of Central Plain Zone, Punjab were examined using standard coprological methods. The results showed an overall prevalence of 27.33 % for strongyles with rare to mild type of infection as evident from egg per gram of faeces. In particular, amongst the examined samples, 17.90 % of horses and 42.14 % of mules were infected and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.01). Identification of the faecal culture harvested larval stages, showed 56 % and 46 % of horses and mules, respectively, positive for small strongyles (Cyathostomes). Amongst the large strongyles, highest proportion was recorded for Strongylus vulgaris whereas, S. equinus was found in least proportion. Results indicated that the various risk factors viz. area, season, age and sex of the host had no significant effect on prevalence of strongyle infection in equines.