Prevalence of parasitic infections of horses in Maiduguri, Nigeria

Esther Solomon Mshelia; Abdullahi Abubakar Biu; ThankGod Emmanuel Onyiche.

Parasitic infections are economically devastating to horses, compromising their health and general performance. The prevalence of parasitic infections amongst one hundred and sixty horses was determined in this study. Faecal samples, blood and ticks were collected from the sampled horses and subjected to standard parasitological techniques for the identification of parasites. An overall prevalence of 30.0 % (48/160) was recorded for faecal helminth ova, with Strongyle ova been the most prevalent. An overall prevalence of 23.1% (37/160) was recorded for haemoparasites, with Theileria equi as the most prevalent 17.5% (28/160) followed by Anaplasma species 5.0% (8/160) and Babesia caballi 0.6% (1/160) as the least encountered. Lastly, the study recorded a prevalence of 25 (15.7%) for tick infestation and Rhipicephalus species was the most prevalent 14.4% (23/160). In conclusion, this study demonstrate that horses are host to a wide assemblage of parasites of economic importance. Therefore, strategic deworming, deticking and veterinary care are recommended to prevent undesirable effects on the health of the animals.

KEYWORDS: Babesia caballi, Seasons, Strongyles, Theileria equi, Ticks



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