Undetected parasitisms in livestock can cause substantial economic loss to producers. The Modified Wisconsin Sugar Flotation Method has been shown to be the most effective method in detecting subclinical parasitism. MidAmerica Agricultural Research uses this technique in an effort to provide accurate diagnosis to determine proper treatment. We hope that this service is of value to you.

Step-by-step instructions
for fecal worm egg count testing

Required materials:
• Appropriate form printed out from this website
• Individual resealable plastic bags for each sample
• Magic marker for labeling individual bags
• Large resealable plastic bag
• Shipping box or styrofoam container
• Freezer pack or frozen water bottle

1. Download and print out the appropriate form from our website
   You may choose from the following categories:
   • Dairy and Beef Cattle form
   • Swine form
   • Equine form
   • Small ruminant/wildlife form

 

2. Collect samples - Use an inverted resealable bag like a glove to collect golf-ball size fresh manure. Once picked up, re-invert the bag and then seal. Collect a sufficient number of samples to profile herd (5-10% of each production class), i.e. take samples from adult cows, yearling cattle, replacement heifers, calves and bulls. For dairies, take samples from different stages of lactation. For swine, take multiple samples from various age groups or pens. For horses take individual samples.

 

3. Label each sample using a permanent marker with animal name or number, if samples are taken randomly; label age group of animals, pen or pasture where samples were taken.

 

4. Store samples in a refrigerated area. Samples should be cooled to refrigeration temperatures as soon after collection as possible. Samples can be refrigerated for several weeks if necessary. Heat causes worm eggs to develop. Freezing can destroy eggs. Do not composite samples.

 

5. Fill out top portion of form with contact information.

 

6. Pack for shipping - Place samples in a larger resealable plastic bag enclosed in a small box or styrofoam container with a freezer pack (or frozen water bottle). Do not send ice.

 

7. Enclose payment - Please include a check for the total cost of testing in your package. We charge $5.00 per sample.

 

8. Mail - Please ship the package by priority or second day air to ensure prompt delivery.

 

9. Wait for the results - The results will be reported as the incidence of worm eggs from specific parasite genera. The total number of eggs from all genera found is given at the end of each column except for tapeworm, coccidia and giardia. These parasites are recorded as low(+), medium(++) or high(+++).