Donkey Parasites: Prevention and Treatment
Donkeys, like other equines, are susceptible to various internal and external parasites. Regular monitoring and deworming are essential to maintain their health.
Common Internal Parasites
- Strongyles (Large and Small)
- Symptoms: Weight loss, poor coat, diarrhea, colic.
- Prevention: Regular deworming, especially in young and older donkeys.
- Ascarids (Roundworms)
- Symptoms: Coughing, lethargy, poor growth in foals.
- Prevention: Deworm foals regularly, as they are most susceptible.
- Tapeworms
- Symptoms: Weight loss, colic, poor appetite.
- Prevention: Use dewormers that specifically target tapeworms.
- Bots
- Symptoms: Skin irritations, digestive issues, and mouth ulcers.
- Prevention: Treat with boticide during the winter or early spring.
Common External Parasites
- Lice
- Symptoms: Itching, hair loss, scabs.
- Prevention: Use anti-lice treatments and maintain clean living conditions.
- Ticks
- Symptoms: Itching, infection, potential transmission of diseases like Lyme disease.
- Prevention: Regular checks and tick repellents.
- Mites (e.g., mange)
- Symptoms: Hair loss, skin irritation, and scabs.
- Prevention: Antimite treatments and maintaining clean, dry shelter.
Deworming Recommendations
- Foals: Deworm every 6–8 weeks starting at 2 months of age.
- Adults: Deworm every 6 months or as recommended by your vet based on fecal egg counts.
Prevention Tips
- Maintain clean living conditions and pasture management to reduce parasite load.
- Monitor your donkeys regularly for signs of parasites.
- Consult with your vet to create a deworming program tailored to your area and donkeys’ needs.