Parasite testing in cattle has been limited by one key constraint: lower eggs per gram (EPG) requirements. As a result, cattle parasite burdens have often been under-detected, under-monitored and/or managed using blanket drenching, rather than evidence-based decisions.
That approach is becoming increasingly risky.
Why lower EPG testing now matters in NZ cattle
Anthelmintic resistance is no longer just a sheep issue. Evidence of emerging drench resistance in cattle is growing, particularly in systems relying on repeated, non-targeted treatments. Key cattle parasites such as Ostertagia can impact production at low egg counts and are easily missed with higher EPG detection thresholds.
Cattle have traditionally been difficult to assess accurately because:
> Egg output is often low, even in the presence of meaningful parasite burden
> Standard McMaster detection methods can lack the resolution required to support confident decision-making
> Limited usefulness of routine FECs in cattle parasite programs.
Lower EPG testing addresses this gap.
What benefit does lower EPG testing offer?
By reducing the detection threshold to 6 epg in cattle and 12 epg in sheep, lower EPG testing allows veterinarians to:
> Detect parasite presence earlier
> Differentiate truly low burdens from false negatives
> Make more informed decisions around if, when and what to drench
> Support targeted treatment strategies that slow resistance development.
Lower EPG testing now available!
At Awanui Veterinary, lower EPG testing can now be performed using Parasight®.
This new testing offers automated imaging and software-based analysis, allowing consistent, objective egg identification and counting with lower detection limits.
This testing can be used for horses, cattle and sheep.
When to use Parasight® testing?
Parasight® has the ability to detect 6 epg (horse and cattle) and 12 epg (sheep). This lower detection rate is recommended for animals like cattle, where increasing the sensitivity of testing gives more power to the result. Especially with those lower egg-producing parasites like Ostertagia spp. Parasight® testing is however limited by its inability to detect a wide range of parasites. It is capable of detecting the main nematodes but lacks the ability to detect Coccidia and Strongyloides. Due to this, its use in younger animals (calves, foals, lambs) and sick animals is not recommended. In these cases, a standard McMaster faecal egg count is still recommended, as our experienced technical staff can identify a large range of parasites microscopically.
> Sample required: Faeces (6 grams minimum) – individual and composite testing available
> Turn-around time: 2-3 days
> Price: Contact your local laboratory.
If you require any further information, please contact us on 0800 474 225 or vets@awanuigroup.co.nz.
