Egg counts

Egg counts explained

Faecal Egg Count (FEC) is a method of determining how many internal parasite Eggs are present in a particular dung sample. It may also be possible to determine the different types of worms or other parasites present. The information on both the number and type of parasites can be used to determine whether or not an anti-parasitic treatment is required.

If an animal has internal parasites the eggs produced by the adult parasites are often passed out in the dung. If eggs are found in a fresh dung sample it shows that worms are present in the animal.

The number of eggs found can provide a useful indication of the level of parasite infection, so a high egg count would suggest a high level of adult parasites in the animal.

We recommend that you carry out a FEC every 6 – 8 weeks

For test where the results have shown a high burden we recommend that you re test (information for this will be included in your results Our retest service means we are able to use previous FEC analysis to monitor any resistance to the product group used and plan accordingly.

Collecting your pooled sample:
1) Collect a small amounts of fresh droppings from several different areas of the hen house or pen
2) Place the droppings into the bag provided and mix (squeeze) together.
3) Complete the information on the leaflet and add any additional information in the comments section.
4) Place the sample bag inside the clear bag and then place them inside the prepaid envelope, along with your leaflet.
5) Then simply pop your sample in the letter box.

Collecting your sample for individual birds:
1. Collect a small amount of fresh droppings from different areas of the hen house or pen, please make sure you collect 10 samples for individual birds (where necessary, separate bird for accuracy).
2. Place the droppings into the bag provided and mix (squeeze) together.
3. Complete the information on the leaflet and add any additional information in the comments section.
4. Place the sample bag inside the clear bag and then place them inside the prepaid envelope, along with your leaflet.
5. Then simply pop your sample in the letter box.

Here at Feclab, we care about our customers and the service that we provide. As small holders ourselves, we understand the challenges that are faced daily in order to maintain happy and healthy animals.

Our fully qualified Animal Medicines Advisers (SQPs) are always happy to offer advice and support where needed.