Prevalence of different gastrointestinal parasite horse infections in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

​

Authors: Dalal Alotaibi, Rania Aldosari Wafa Abdullah I. Al-Megrin*

Received November 2023

Accepted for publication April 2024

Published June 2024 Volume 1:2 Pages 57—65

Checked for plagiarism Yes

Peer reviewer comments 2

Correspondence: waalmegrin@pnu.edu.sa

Abstract

Gastrointestinal parasites are a significant health concern for horses, affecting their overall health and performance. Detecting intestinal parasites in horses is crucial for maintaining their health and preventing disease outbreaks, which can lead to significant economic and performance-related losses. This research provides essential data that can inform better management practices and parasite control strategies, ultimately enhancing horse health and productivity. This study was conducted to estimate the prevalence of different gastrointestinal parasites in horses in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and to investigate the relationship between infection rates and the horses' age, sex, and species. A total of 113 fecal samples from horses were gathered and examined using NaCl flotation and direct fecal smear techniques to detect gastrointestinal parasites. The results showed that among the 113 samples examined, 44 (38.93%) were found positive for various gastrointestinal parasites. The detected parasites included Entrobius spp. (10.6%), Eimeria spp. (6.19%), Anoplocephala spp. (2.65%), Parascaris equorum (1.76%), Ascaris spp. (1.76%), and Gastrodiscus spp. (0.88%). Additionally, 29.2% of the infections were attributed to unidentified oocysts, larvae, or eggs. These findings suggest that gastrointestinal parasites are common in horses in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and underscore the need for targeted parasite management and control strategies to improve equine health and welfare in the region.