Alpaca worms - an overview

Alpaca are susceptible to both cattle and sheep internal parasites including liver fluke (Fasciola hepatica).

Alpaca use dunging ‘latrines’ which helps to control roundworm parasites; as a result, worm burdens are often not high.

Occasional heavy barber’s pole worm (Haemonchus contortus) burdens are reported, especially in high rainfall coastal areas.

Other worm types include black scour worm (Trichostrongylus spp.) and small brown stomach worm (Teladorsagia (Ostertagia) circumcincta).

This Primefact covers the following topics:

• Worms in alpaca – what to do
• WormTest
• WormTest kits – availability and cost
• Sample collection and using the kit
• Where is the testing done?
• Interpreting worm egg counts
• Benefits of regular WormTesting
• Drenches for alpaca
• ‘Organic’ drenches
• Integrated parasite management