The Accidental Smallholder Forum

Livestock => Sheep => Topic started by: maddy on June 13, 2016, 05:27:02 pm

Title: Tapeworm query
Post by: maddy on June 13, 2016, 05:27:02 pm

I wormed my lambs and ewes on 30th May with Oramec and today I saw live segments of tapeworm in poo.  Does this mean the wormer is working and expelling the worms or not working.  I will have to send an FEC sample off but won't be able to do that till end of week so was intrigued to know what you experts thought.

Thanks for any comments.

Title: Re: Tapeworm query
Post by: Foobar on June 13, 2016, 05:32:20 pm

No because Oramec doesn't kill tapeworm AFAIK.

Title: Re: Tapeworm query
Post by: maddy on June 13, 2016, 05:38:56 pm

What should I use then

Title: Re: Tapeworm query
Post by: fsmnutter on June 13, 2016, 05:50:55 pm

Quote from: maddy on June 13, 2016, 05:38:56 pm

What should I use then

Ask your vet. They will be able to suggest the most appropriate wormers for your area and situation and can often dispense small amounts to avoid wastage.
Adult tapeworm (sheep tapeworm, those that cause tapeworm segments in poo) are rarely a problem in sheep, it is more the juvenile stages they pick up from dog poo (dog tapeworm) that can get into the muscle and/or brain of the sheep (hence why dogs on farmland need to be regularly wormed).
If the sheep are passing tapeworm segments but are well and thriving, it is likely unnecessary to treat, but do ask your vet for local, tailored to you, advice.
Hope that helps.