Prevalence and Epidemiological Distribution of Gastrointestinal Parasites in Equines from Selected Stables in Nigeria

Gastrointestinal parasitic infections remain a major constraint to equine health and productivity in Nigeria. This study investigated the prevalence and epidemiological distribution of gastrointestinal parasites among equines from selected stables and farms in Nigeria. A total of 100 faecal samples were collected from horses across four study locations comprising the Nigerian Defence Academy Equitation Unit, Kaduna; Cleanwater Farms, Kaduna; ALMAT Farms, Abuja and RIO Hondo Spread Ltd, Plateau State. Samples were examined using flotation and sedimentation techniques for identification of parasite ova and larvae. Out of the 100 samples examined, 67% were positive for one or more gastrointestinal parasites. Strongylus spp. was the most prevalent parasite identified (35.8%), followed by Parascaris equorum (20.9%), Oxyuris equi (14.9%), Strongyloides westeri (13.4%), and Anoplocephala perfoliata (7.5%). The highest prevalence was recorded in horses aged less than 5 years (78.1%), while males had slightly higher infection rates (69.1%) compared with females (64.6%). By breed, local breeds showed higher prevalence than exotic breeds. The Nigerian Defence Academy Equitation Department recorded the lowest prevalence rate (60%), while ALMAT Farms recorded the higest prevalence (72%).The findings indicate that gastrointestinal parasitism remains endemic among equines in Nigeria and could adversely affect performance, endurance, and operational efficiency. Improved deworming schedules, stable hygiene, strategic veterinary surveillance, and routine faecal examinations are recommended to reduce the burden of parasitic infections.