Less Common
OTHER DIAGNOSES CONSIDERED
Other conditions or ailments that might also need to be ruled out by a vet.
Diagnosis
Conditions or ailments that are the cause of a problem that you see - your observation.
Your vet may diagnose
Pinworm Infestation
Summary
Pinworms (Oxyuris equi) are an intestinal parasite that live in the horse's lower intestines. They deposit their eggs around the anus, causing intense itchiness.
The classic sign of this parasite is frequent scratching of the area around the anus and tail head (against a fence, door or other structure). Tail hairs tend to be broken off at the base due to intense scratching.
This diagnosis actually requires the so-called "scotch tape test", in which scotch tape is stuck to the anus and removed. The eggs adhere to the tape and can be examined and identified under a microscope.
The classic sign of this parasite is frequent scratching of the area around the anus and tail head (against a fence, door or other structure). Tail hairs tend to be broken off at the base due to intense scratching.
This diagnosis actually requires the so-called "scotch tape test", in which scotch tape is stuck to the anus and removed. The eggs adhere to the tape and can be examined and identified under a microscope.
my vet's role
Diagnostics Used
These are tests that might be helpful to make this diagnosis or further characterize the condition.
Treatments May Include
These treatments might be used to help resolve or improve this condition.
PROGNOSIS AND RELEVANT FACTORS
Historically, treatment for pinworms has been effective in decreasing signs. There may be resistance in the pinworm population to our common dewormers, making treatment more difficult.my role
I might observe
You might make these observations when a horse has this condition.
Skills I Might Need
I might need these skills if my horse has this diagnosis.
further reading & resources
Helpful Terms and Topics
Written, reviewed or shared by experts in equine health