Most often, when worming is discussed, we focus only on giving the wormer. Support for the horse’s body, both before and after the treatment, is no less important. Parasites burden the digestive system, damage the lining of the gut and limit the absorption of nutrients. That means horses living with an undetected parasite can be short of vitamins and minerals, have weaker immunity and a poorer coat and hooves. The right diet is not only support for treatment, but effective prevention too.
A healthy digestive system is the best protective barrier against parasites. The foundation here is high-quality forage, that is hay or haylage, which keeps the gut working properly and the microbiota stable. Concentrates such as oats or cereal mixes should be fed in sensible amounts, because an excess of readily fermentable carbohydrates encourages digestive upset and weakens natural immunity. In this context it is worth remembering additions that support a balanced gut microflora: feed yeast, sugar beet pulp, and also linseed and psyllium, which have a soothing effect on the lining of the digestive tract.
The next element of feeding around worming is vitamins and minerals. Parasites increase the body’s need for nutrients, so zinc, copper, selenium and vitamin E are particularly important in the diet, supporting immunity and tissue repair. Good-quality protein should not be forgotten either, as it is essential for rebuilding the gut lining. Lucerne, flaked peas or linseed are sources of readily absorbed amino acids that are worth including in the horse’s menu in the period after worming.
To sum up, effective parasite prevention is not only the regular use of wormers. Supporting the body through proper feeding is just as important. A well-balanced diet helps the digestive tract to recover, strengthens immunity and reduces the risk of parasites establishing themselves again. So when you plan worming, it is worth looking at the horse’s diet at the same time and, if necessary, making the right changes or adding supplements✨