As the South African rainy season approaches in November and December, livestock farmers enter a critical period for parasite management. Warm temperatures combined with increased rainfall create ideal conditions for the development and spread of gastrointestinal worms, affecting cattle, sheep, and goats across the country.
Why the Rainy Season Matters
During the dry winter months, worm burdens tend to remain low due to reduced pasture contamination. However, with the arrival of rain, humidity and mild temperatures promote rapid growth of parasite eggs and larvae on grazing lands. This surge in parasite activity can lead to:
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Reduced weight gain and milk yield
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Poor feed conversion efficiency
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Diarrhoea, anaemia, and bottle jaw (especially in small stock)
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Severe infestations and even livestock losses in untreated animals
The Importance of Faecal Egg Counts (FEC)
Faecal Egg Count (FEC) testing is a simple, cost-effective method to measure the level of internal parasite infestation in ruminants. By identifying the number of worm eggs per gram of faeces (EPG), farmers and veterinarians can:
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Determine when and which animals require deworming
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Assess the effectiveness of parasite control programmes
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Detect anthelmintic resistance early
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Time treatments strategically to prevent reinfection during high-risk months
Envirocare’s Advanced FEC Services
At Envirocare Veterinary Laboratory, our faecal egg count testing is performed using specialised microscopic techniques that allow for high-resolution imaging of gastrointestinal parasitic eggs. This technology not only enhances identification accuracy but also enables visual documentation of egg morphology for reference and reporting.
Our trained laboratory analysts can record the presence of key parasite species, including strongyles, coccidia, and tapeworm eggs, providing farmers and veterinarians with clear, photographic evidence and professional interpretation to guide targeted treatment decisions.
When to Test
Faecal egg counts should be performed:
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Before the rainy season (October–November) – to establish a baseline worm load
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Mid-season (December–February) – to monitor treatment effectiveness
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After the rainy season (March–April) – to assess parasite control success and guide next steps
Sample Collection Guidelines
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Collect fresh faecal samples directly from the rectum or immediately after defecation.
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Use clean, sealable containers and label clearly with animal ID and date.
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Keep samples cool (not frozen) and deliver to the laboratory within 24 hours for accurate analysis.
Supporting Animal Health Through Science
At Envirocare Veterinary Laboratory, we provide accurate faecal egg count testing, microscopic imaging, and expert interpretation to support effective parasite management in ruminants. Regular monitoring protects herd health, enhances productivity, and promotes sustainable farming through responsible use of dewormers.
📍 Contact us to schedule faecal egg count testing ahead of the summer rains.
Envirocare Laboratory
Tel: +27 18 294 4283
Email: info@envirocarelab.co.za
References
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Van Wyk, J.A., Cabaret, J., & Michael, L.M. (2004). Morphological identification of nematode larvae of small ruminants and cattle simplified. Veterinary Parasitology, 119(4), 277–306.
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South African Veterinary Association (SAVA). (2023). Guidelines for sustainable internal parasite control in ruminants in South Africa.
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Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD). (2022). Livestock Health – Internal Parasite Management in South Africa.
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Coles, G.C. et al. (1992). World Association for the Advancement of Veterinary Parasitology (WAAVP): Methods for detection of anthelmintic resistance. Veterinary Parasitology, 44(1–2), 35–44.
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Bath, G.F. & Van Wyk, J.A. (2009). The FAMACHA© system for managing haemonchosis in sheep and goats. Small Ruminant Research, 76(1–2), 13–17.
