Why Farmers Should FEC Test with the FECPAKG2 Test Kit

Why Farmers Should FEC Test with the FECPAKG2 Test Kit


Why Farmers Should FEC Test

Let’s explore the benefits of FEC (Faecal Egg Count) testing and understand why regular FEC testing is essential for sustainable farming.

For farmers maintaining the health and productivity of livestock is paramount. One critical element of animal health management is controlling parasitic infections.

Faecal Egg Count (FEC) testing, particularly with the FECPAK Test Kit, offers a reliable and efficient method to monitor and manage parasite burdens in livestock. There are numerous benefits of FEC testing including; reducing wormer use, increasing weight gain, and improving animal welfare.

Understanding FEC Testing

Faecal Egg Count (FEC) testing is a diagnostic tool that estimates the number of parasite eggs in an animal’s faeces. This information is crucial for confirming the presence of parasitic infection, understanding the level of infection and being able to assess if wormer treatment has been effective. Furthermore, knowing FEC results enables informed decisions about treatment and grazing management. The FECPAK Test Kit makes FEC testing simple, allowing farmers to collect FEC samples on their farm and send them away to obtain quick, accurate FEC results. 

Benefits of FEC Testing

  1. Reduce Wormer Use - Overuse of wormers can lead to resistance, leading to parasites becoming less susceptible to treatments. FEC testing helps farmers avoid unnecessary treatments by providing evidence-based parasite burden results. This targeted approach not only reduces the cost of treatments but also minimises the environmental impact of chemical use.
  1. Increasing Weight Gain - Parasites can significantly affect the growth and productivity of livestock. Animals with high parasite burdens often have reduced weight gain and poor overall condition. By using FEC testing to identify and treat infections promptly, farmers can ensure their animals remain healthy and productive. This proactive approach leads to better weight gain and improved production outcomes. A study by Sainsbury’s and Techion, developers of the FECPAK Test Kit, released in 2017 showed an estimated annual income loss of £12,037 for an average sheep farmer in the UK attributed to the widespread use of ineffective drenches, with 84% of the UK farmers in the study regularly using them.
  1. Improving Animal Welfare - The welfare of livestock is a top priority for farmers. Parasites cause significant discomfort and health issues for animals. Regular FEC testing allows for early detection and treatment of parasitic infections, ensuring animals remain healthy and comfortable. This not only improves their welfare but also aligns with ethical farming practices.
  1. Improved Soil Health: Dung beetles are essential for breaking down dung pats, which enriches the soil with organic matter. When wormers are overused, they can kill dung beetles, leading to less efficient dung decomposition and poorer soil health. By integrating FEC testing into management practices, farmers can protect dung beetles and contribute to healthier pastures and ecosystems.

How to Test with a FECPAK FEC Test Kit

FEC testing with the FECPAK Test Kit is an easy three step process. 

  1. Decide whether to take a mob or individual sample.

Mob Test

  • A mob test combines multiple samples from individual animals to get an average egg count result for the mob.
  • Mob tests are an economical way to build an overall picture of your mob’s average worm burden.

Individual Test

  • An individual test can be used if you are interested in the results from a particular animal.

 

  1. Collect the Sample

Mob Collection

  • SHEEP - 1 scoop from 25-35 different samples.
  • CATTLE - 3 scoops from different parts of 15-25 samples

Individual Collection

  • SHEEP - Collect whole sample.
  • CATTLE - 3 x three-finger pinches from different areas of the sample

 

  1. Fill in Submission and send sample for testing
  • Scan the QR code on the enclosed label to fill in the online submission form with sample details.
  • Exclude air, seal the bag properly. Attach the QR label to the sample bag, place it into a leak-proof bag, and then into the postal box.
  • Post the sample directly to our lab and await results. Track progress by logging into your account.

 

Tips to FEC Test like a Pro

  • Samples should be as fresh as possible.
  • Do not select samples based on their texture.
  • Remove air from the sample and refrigerate immediately if unable to send straight away.
  • Collect and send your sample earlier in the week to avoid being held over the weekend 

By adopting regular FEC testing as part of their parasite management strategy, farmers can make informed decisions that enhance the health and productivity of their livestock. For more information and to purchase the FECPAK Test Kit, visit the FECPAK Shop. 

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