Prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in horses ( <i>Equus caballus Linnaeus</i> , 1758) in Setif region (northeastern Algeria)

Summary Background Horses are used in various countries for multiple purposes and often play a crucial role in the livelihood of many communities. However, parasitic infections represent a significant threat to their health and productivity. Objectives This study aimed to identify gastrointestinal parasite species affecting horses using coprological methods and to assess the influence of certain factors (age, sex and bioclimatic zone) on these infections. Study design These samples were analysed using flotation techniques to detect faecal parasitic forms (e.g. eggs and oocysts) and larvae. Methods Between January and May 2024, fresh faecal samples were collected from 121 horses in the Setif region (northeastern Algeria). Prevalences were calculated for each gastrointestinal parasite and the influence of certain intrinsic (age and sex) and extrinsic (region) parameters on these prevalences was analysed. Results We have found, namely Strongylus vulgaris (38.84%), Oxyrus equi (7.44%), Parascaris equorum (24.62%), Anoplocephala spp. 6.61% and 5.79% were carriers of Eimeria leuckarti and 4.96% had Giardia duodenalis cysts. Conclusions This study demonstrates that horses in the Setif region are commonly affected by gastrointestinal parasites, with a predominance of mixed infestations. Both helminths and protozoa were identified, with Strongylus vulgaris and Parascaris equorum being the most prevalent species. The variations in infestation rates across age groups, sex and geographical zones highlight the influence of environmental and management factors.