Types of worms that infect sheep
Types of Worms Affecting Sheep and Their Effects
There are several types of worms that can affect sheep and have various impacts. Here are some common examples:
- Roundworms: These include the barber pole worm (Haemonchus contortus) and the brown stomach worm (Teladorsagia circumcincta). These worms inhabit the digestive tract of sheep and feed on blood, leading to weight loss, anemia, and stunted growth.
- Tapeworms: Tapeworms such as Moniezia expansa and Moniezia benedeni are included in this category. They live in the small intestine and feed on absorbed nutrients, leading to malnutrition and weight loss.
- Lungworms: Lungworms like Dictyocaulus filaria and Muellerius capillaris infect the respiratory system of sheep. These worms cause respiratory disturbances, coughing, and difficulty breathing.
- Liver Flukes: Fasciola hepatica is the most common liver fluke affecting sheep. These worms live in the liver and gallbladder, causing liver inflammation and damage to liver tissues.
The effects of these worms on sheep include weight loss, loss of appetite, poor growth, malnutrition, anemia, respiratory disorders, and internal tissue damage. Chronic and persistent infections can lead to a decline in the health of the sheep and reduced flock productivity.
Diagnosis and treatment should be conducted by a specialized veterinarian according to the specific type of worm and the conditions of the infection.
