The Biology of the Goat

How to do your own fecal exams

Goats can be host to a variety of internal parasites. Parasitic worms lay eggs, more correctly called oocytes, which are passed out through the feces. The small parasitic protozoa which causes coccidiosis produce oocysts which infect other goats. We can determine what types of parasites a goat has by examining the feces which contain the microscopic eggs. To keep many parasites in check, monitoring egg counts can tell you if your worming protocol is working. In addition, different parasites respond better to one class of wormer than another. Knowing what your goats carry or if they carry any parasites at all is helpful for tailoring a treatment. In this laboratory you will learn an easy method for looking for parasite eggs right in your own home.

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