09/29/2025
If you have goats or sheep, you may have heard your veterinarian discuss FAMACHA scoring your herd. FAMACHA is a targeted deworming tool used in sheep and goat management to help control infections by the barber pole worm (Haemonchus contortus), a blood-sucking parasite that causes anemia. The system uses a specialized colour chart to evaluate the colour of the mucous membranes in the lower eyelid. By comparing eyelid colour to the chart, producers can determine the level of anemia in each animal and decide whether deworming is necessary. FAMACHA scoring is a highly effective measurement of worm burden in a flock/herd. If used in conjunction with clinical signs (such as weight loss, weakness, rough coat, anemia, ill thrift, and changes in manure) and f***l egg counts, you will be able to target treatment more effectively to the animals that need it. 🐛🐐🐑
This selective treatment approach reduces unnecessary use of anthelmintics (dewormers), which helps slow the development of drug resistance in worm populations. It also promotes more sustainable parasite control by allowing only the animals most in need to be treated. Please call us if you have any questions! 📞📞
