By Dr Trywell Muzerengi

Deworming is a vital component of livestock and poultry management, yet it is often overlooked by many farmers. Understanding the importance of controlling internal parasites is key to improving animal health, productivity, and profitability.

Internal parasites such as worms compete with animals for nutrients. When animals are infested, the feed provided ends up benefiting the parasites more than the animals themselves. This leads to poor growth, reduced production, and in severe cases, death.

So why do we deworm our animals and poultry?
The primary reason is to control internal parasites so that animals and birds can fully utilise the feed given to them. A well-fed animal with a parasite-free gut is healthier, grows faster, and produces better milk, meat, or eggs.

How Often Should Deworming Be Done?

Each animal species requires deworming at specific intervals:

Cattle should be dewormed twice a year — once before the rainy season and again after the rainy season.

Pigs need to be dewormed every three months, or soon after weaning from the sows.

Goats should be dewormed every three months.

Chickens also require deworming every three months to prevent parasite build-up in the flock.

Important Tips for Effective Deworming

Always use broad-spectrum dewormers that can control all types of internal parasites, not just selective ones.

Rotate deworming drugs occasionally to prevent resistance.

Maintain good hygiene and proper feeding practices to reduce the risk of re-infestation.

By keeping animals parasite-free, farmers not only improve the welfare of their livestock and poultry but also enhance their overall farm productivity. Regular deworming is a simple, cost-effective practice that pays big dividends in animal performance and farmer income.

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