Cyathostominosis

GastrointestinalEquineNew

Key Points

Cyathostominosis is a parasitic disease caused by cyathostomins (i.e. small redworms)
It is one of the most clinically important equine parasitic conditions worldwide
Most horses carry small, subclinical burdens but severe disease can occur when large numbers of encysted larvae emerge into the large intestine simultaneously
- Mass emergence is known as ‘larval cyathostominosis’
Larval cyathostominosis causes acute typhlocolitis, hypoproteinaemia, ventral oedema and profuse diarrhoea
Diagnosis is typically presumptive based on the clinical presentation
Moxidectin is the first-line anthelmintic and should be used alongside anti-inflammatories and supportive care
Prevention relies on targeted anthelmintic use and good pasture management

Differential Diagnoses

Salmonellosis
Proliferative enteropathy (L. intracellularis)
Right dorsal colitis

Educational content only. This factsheet is for general veterinary education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Not for use in an emergency — contact a veterinarian or emergency service. Full disclaimer →