Horse owners understand the importance of keeping their equine companions healthy and parasite-free. One very important aspect of care is regular horse deworming, which involves administering the best horse wormer to eliminate various internal parasites that can affect a horse’s overall health. Horse wormers are specifically designed for this purpose, and choosing the best one for your horse can be a daunting task.
There are several types of horse wormers on the market, formulated to target specific horse parasites such as roundworms, tapeworms, and bots. The effectiveness of a horse wormer depends on factors like the type of parasite it targets, the active ingredients, and the age or weight of the horse. Select a wormer that not only effectively eliminates the specific parasites that your horse has but also suits your horse’s individual needs.
When shopping for the best horse wormer, it’s crucial to pay attention to the active ingredient, concentration, horse age, weight range, and coverage for specific parasites. Understand the ease of administration, as some wormers come in paste form, while others are available as pellets or liquid formulations. It’s also important to rotate wormers to prevent resistance, so having a few different options in your arsenal is beneficial.
To help you make an informed decision, we’ve researched and tested numerous horse wormers, considering their effectiveness, ease of administration, and value. With our findings, we’ve identified the top choices to keep your horse healthy and free from pesky parasites.
Best Horse Wormers
We have compiled a list of the best horse wormers available, ensuring the health and well-being of your equine companions.
Durvet Ivermectin Paste 1.87% for Horses Apple
We recommend this Durvet Ivermectin Paste for its effectiveness, safety, and pleasant apple flavor for your horses.
Pros
- Effectively removes worms and bots with a single dose
- Safe for use on various horse types, including foals, broodmares, and breeding stallions
- Apple flavor favored by horses
Cons
- May not taste exactly like apples for some horses
- Package design could be improved
- Limited to treating 1250 lb horses with one dose
This Durvet Ivermectin Paste 1.87% has proven to be a reliable option for deworming and treating bot infestations in horses. We found it to be extremely effective in removing parasites with just a single dose, which simplifies the treatment process for horse owners.
The paste is safe to use on all types of horses, including young foals, broodmares, and breeding stallions. This versatility makes it a great option for a wide range of equestrian needs. The pleasant apple flavor is appreciated by horses, making administration much easier and stress-free.
While this paste promises an apple flavor, some horses may find the taste different from their expectations. Also, the package design could use some improvements for ease of use. It’s important to note that one dose is specifically formulated to treat a 1250 lb horse, so keep this in mind when determining the appropriate dosage for your equine companions.
We have had a positive experience with the Durvet Ivermectin Paste 1.87% for Horses Apple, and we believe it’s worth choosing for your horses’ parasite treatment and prevention needs.
Zoetis Quest Gel Moxidectin Horse Dewormer
This dewormer is a highly effective choice for horse owners who need a reliable broad-spectrum treatment for their equine friends.
Pros
- Effective against a wide range of parasites
- Easy to use and dissolves on the tongue
- Suppresses small strongyle egg production for 84 days
Cons
- Not the cheapest option on the market
- The syringe top can be difficult to remove
- Some users may find the syringe calibration confusing
We used the Zoetis Quest Gel Moxidectin Horse Dewormer on our horses, and it worked wonders in treating their worm infestations. This gel formula is highly effective against a variety of parasites, including encysted small strongyle larvae, bots, pinworms, and more. The easy-to-use gel dissolves on the horse’s tongue, making the deworming process much more comfortable for both the horse and the owner.
One of the significant advantages of this dewormer is its long-lasting effects. With a single dose, it suppresses the production of small strongyle eggs for up to 84 days. This feature is particularly useful for those looking to keep their equine friends parasite-free during the early grazing season. Furthermore, the Zoetis Quest Gel is safe for use on horses, ponies, and foals aged six months or older, as well as pregnant or nursing mares and breeding stallions, making it a versatile choice for any horse owner.
There are a few downsides to the Zoetis Quest Gel Moxidectin Horse Dewormer. For one, it is not the most affordable option on the market, which means that cost-conscious buyers may want to research other alternatives. Some users have reported difficulty in removing the syringe’s top and finding the syringe calibration confusing. Despite these minor drawbacks, we believe that the Zoetis Quest Gel Moxidectin Horse Dewormer is an excellent investment for those seeking an effective, easy-to-use, and long-lasting deworming solution for their horses.
Panacur Equine Paste 10% Fenbendazole Horse Wormer
We highly recommend Panacur Equine Paste for its effectiveness, ease of use, and versatility in treating various animals.
Pros
- Effective in treating a range of parasitic infections
- Easy-to-read dosage markings on the syringe
- Suitable for multiple types of livestock
Cons
- The taste might be unappealing to some animals
- Can be pricier than some other wormers
- May require multiple treatments for severe cases
When we used Panacur Equine Paste 10% Fenbendazole Horse Wormer, we immediately noticed the ease of dispensing the paste due to clear markings on the syringe. This made sure that our horses, as well as other livestock on our property, received the correct dosage. Over the years, we have found this product to be incredibly effective in treating a variety of parasitic infections.
Another advantage of this horse wormer is its versatility. We spoke with our veterinarian, who confirmed that it is not only suitable for horses but also for cows, dogs, cats, goats, and other animals. This makes it an incredible value, as we can use one product to treat our entire range of livestock.
On the downside, the taste of the paste can be a bit unpalatable for some animals. We had to find creative ways to administer the paste, such as mixing it into their food. We found that multiple treatments might be required in severe cases of worm infestations, which could add to the cost.
We still believe that the Panacur Equine Paste 10% Fenbendazole Horse Wormer is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a reliable and versatile wormer for their animals. The effectiveness, ease of use, and suitability for various livestock types outweigh its minor drawbacks.
Apexa Pyrantel Pamoate Suspension, 16 Ounce
We recommend the Apexa Pyrantel Pamoate Suspension for its effectiveness in treating pinworms and its ease of use for both humans and pets.
Pros
- Effective against pinworms
- Suitable for humans and pets
- Affordable alternative to vet treatments
Cons
- Not specifically formulated for kittens
- May require multiple doses for full treatment
- Large bottle may be difficult for some to handle
We recently used the Apexa Pyrantel Pamoate Suspension to deworm our horse and were pleased with the results. The instructions were straightforward, with dosages based on the weight of our pet. This product saved us a considerable amount compared to the costly deworming services provided by our veterinarian.
In our experience, this suspension is not specifically meant for kittens, so it may not be the best choice for young feline companions. For adult cats and dogs, we found it to be effective. We did notice that some pets might require multiple doses to completely eliminate pinworms, so it is important to monitor your pet’s progress during treatment.
The large 16-ounce bottle could be difficult for some people to handle, but we appreciated the generous quantity that allowed us to treat our entire furry family. Although it may not be ideal for all pet owners, the Apexa Pyrantel Pamoate Suspension is a cost-effective and efficient solution for treating pinworms in both humans and pets.
Merck Safe1.1LB Mult Dewormer
This versatile dewormer should be at the top of your list for effectively treating various species, including horses.
Pros
- Works on multiple species: equine, dairy cattle, beef cattle, swine, turkeys, and more
- No milk withdrawal is required for dairy cattle
- Fenbendazole 2.27 Grams Per Pound
Cons
- Confusing dosage instructions for different animals
- Small package size
- No specific instructions for chickens
Our first-hand experience with the Merck Safe1.1LB Mult Dewormer left us feeling confident in its ability to treat a variety of animals effectively. Horses, in particular, responded well to the treatment, and we appreciated how easy it was to include the dewormer in their feed.
We did encounter some difficulty when trying to determine the correct dosage for chickens. There were no specific instructions provided for poultry, so be prepared for some calculations if you plan to use it for that purpose. Make sure to measure the dosage carefully to avoid overdosing.
We loved the fact that there is no milk withdrawal requirement for dairy cattle, making this dewormer a great choice for farmers with dairy herds. Keep in mind, though, that the package size is quite small – plan accordingly when purchasing for larger herds or multiple species to have enough product on hand.
The Merck Safe1.1LB Mult Dewormer is an effective and versatile option for a range of animals, especially horses. Though dosage instructions for chickens could be clearer, the overall performance of this dewormer makes it worth purchasing for your horse care needs.
Equimax 14.03 Praziquantel/1.87 Ivermectin Paste
Equimax is an excellent all-in-one dewormer for horses, combining ivermectin and praziquantel, with high effectiveness against major parasites and tapeworms.
Pros
- Highly effective against major parasites and tapeworms
- Quick-dissolving and palatable paste
- Treats horses up to 1,320 lbs. in a single application
Cons
- May be expensive compared to other dewormers
- Not specifically designed for draft horses
- Some customers received damaged packages
When we used the Equimax 14.03 Praziquantel/1.87 Ivermectin Paste on our horses, and we were thoroughly impressed with its effectiveness and ease of use. The paste’s smooth consistency made it easy to administer, and our horses readily accepted it due to its palatability.
The all-in-one formula proved highly effective against major parasites, as well as being 100% effective against tapeworms. This is especially important for preventing tapeworm-associated colics in horses. We appreciated that the paste was suitable for horses as young as four weeks old.
We noticed that the price of Equimax can be higher compared to other dewormers, which may be a concern for those on a budget. The dosage size doesn’t specifically cater to draft horses. A few customers also reported receiving damaged packages, so careful inspection upon arrival is recommended.
Equimax 14.03 Praziquantel/1.87 Ivermectin Paste is a reliable and effective dewormer worth buying for your horses. Despite its higher price point, the product’s effectiveness and ease of use merit strong consideration.
MERCK ANIML HEALTH/DURVET Panacur Powerpac Dewormer
We highly recommend this horse wormer for its effectiveness against a wide range of parasites and easy-to-use paste formula.
Pros
- Highly effective against various internal parasites
- Larvicidal treatment for encysted small strongyles
- Easy-to-use paste formula
Cons
- Slightly higher price point than other wormers
- Multiple-day treatment may pose challenges for some horses
- Effectiveness may be reduced with improper dosing or inconsistent use
Having used the Merk Animal Health/Durvet Panacur Powerpac Dewormer on our equine friends, we can confidently say that it is highly effective against a variety of pesky internal parasites. This treatment was especially successful against small strongyles, which are notorious for causing various health issues in horses.
The easy-to-use paste formula allows us to administer the treatment without any trouble. It effortlessly mixes with our horses’ favorite feeds, ensuring they receive the optimum dosage. We attribute our horses’ improved health and vigor to this stellar wormer product.
It’s worth noting that the Panacur Powerpac Dewormer is a bit more costly compared to other wormers on the market. The multiple-day treatment schedule could be an obstacle for some horses or pet owners who struggle with consistent dosing. Despite these minor drawbacks, we have found this product to be incredibly effective, and it continues to play a key role in maintaining our horses’ well-being.
MERCK ANIMAL HEALTH/DURVET Panacur Powerpac Dewormer stands out as an excellent product for combating various internal parasites in horses. Although the price may be on the higher side and the treatment may require extra diligence, the easy-to-use paste formula, and impressive efficacy make it a worthwhile investment for your equine companions.
Zoetis 23.6 GMS Strongid Paste
We recommend the Zoetis 23.6 GMS Strongid Paste for its effectiveness in treating worm infections in horses and foals with minimal fuss.
Pros
- Effective against a range of parasites
- Easy to administer
- Treats up to 1,200 lbs of body weight
Cons
- Taste may not be appealing to some animals
- Adjustment dial can be difficult to use
- Limited to horses and foals
Our experience using the Zoetis 23.6 GMS Strongid Paste was generally positive. It contains 43.9% pyrantel pamoate, which effectively treats and controls mature infections of large strongyles, small strongyles, pinworms, and large roundworms in horses and foals. The single oral dose of 3 mg pyrantel base per lb of body weight makes it easy to administer, and we appreciate that each syringe covers up to 1,200 lbs.
Some animals might not enjoy the taste of the paste, making administering it slightly more challenging. We’ve also noticed that the dial used to adjust the dosage for the horse’s weight can be difficult to manipulate, which might cause some inconvenience.
Still, the Zoetis Strongid Paste remains an excellent choice for horse owners seeking an effective and reliable wormer for their animals. Keep in mind that this product’s use is specified for horses and foals, so it’s not suitable for other animals. We’re satisfied with the Strongid Paste and would recommend it for keeping your horses healthy and worm-free.
Best Horse Wormer Buying Guide
When selecting the best horse wormer, it’s important to understand several key factors. In this buying guide, we will walk you through the features to look for and help you make an informed decision.
Type of Worms Targeted: Not all dewormers are effective against every type of parasite. Research the product you select to see that it targets the specific worms affecting your horse. Common horse parasites include roundworms, tapeworms, and strongyles.
Formulation: Horse wormers come in various forms, including paste, gel, pellet, and liquid. We recommend choosing a formulation that is easy to administer and suits your horse’s preferences.
Dosage and Frequency: Pay close attention to the recommended dosage and frequency of administration as it may vary from product to product. Overdosing can be harmful, while underdosing may not effectively treat the parasite infestation.
Active Ingredients: Look for wormers with proven active ingredients such as ivermectin, pyrantel, or fenbendazole. These ingredients have been shown to be effective in treating various worm infestations in horses.
Resistance: Resistance can develop when the same wormer is used repeatedly. To minimize this risk, we suggest rotating wormers from different chemical classes to keep their continued effectiveness.
Safety and Side Effects: Always review the possible side effects and safety precautions associated with the wormer. This is especially important for pregnant mares, foals, and horses with known health conditions.
Expiration Date: Wormers lose their effectiveness over time. Be sure to check the expiration date on the product and avoid using expired wormers.
To choose the best horse wormer, consider the type of worms targeted, the formulation, dosage, active ingredients, resistance, safety, and the product’s expiration date. By carefully evaluating these factors, you will be well-equipped to make an informed decision and keep your horse healthy and worm-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most effective wormer for various equine parasites?
We recommend consulting with your veterinarian to determine the most effective wormer for your horse, as the effectiveness can vary depending on the specific parasite and regional factors. Use a targeted approach when selecting the right wormer to ensure the best results.
Which horse wormers work best during different seasons?
The optimal choice of horse wormer depends on the prevalence of specific parasites during different seasons in your area. This can vary by region, so consult your veterinarian for their specific recommendations based on your horse’s needs.
How often should a horse be dewormed for optimal health?
The frequency of deworming will depend on factors like the horse’s age, environment, and climate. Typically, horses may be dewormed every 2-3 months, but your veterinarian might adjust this horse worming schedule after considering your horse’s circumstances.
What are the most recommended dewormers for tapeworms and roundworms?
Ivermectin and moxidectin are often recommended for combating roundworms, while praziquantel is effective against tapeworms. It’s best to discuss this with your veterinarian, as they can recommend the appropriate dewormer based on your horse’s specific needs.
Are there safe and effective options for cheap horse wormers?
Yes, there are affordable and effective horse wormers available. The best option will depend on the specific parasite you’re targeting. Your veterinarian can provide guidance on selecting a cost-effective wormer that suits your horse’s needs.
Do different horse wormers have unique benefits, and how do I choose the right one?
Indeed, different horse wormers target specific parasites and have unique benefits. To choose the right one, consult your veterinarian, who can provide recommendations based on your horse’s age, environment, and type of parasite affecting them. Following their guidance will make sure that you choose the most effective dewormer for your horse’s well-being.
Last Updated on October 29, 2023 by Nate Dewsbury
