Quest Plus Gel Dewormer for Horses
Brand: Zoetis
Quest Plus Gel Dewormer is a potent, single-dose anthelmintic and boticide formulated specifically to treat a wide spectrum of internal parasites in horses, including tapeworms and encysted small strongyles.
This product is intended for horses.
Overview
Quest Plus Gel Dewormer, developed by Zoetis, represents a significant advancement in equine parasite management by combining moxidectin and praziquantel. Unlike Panacur Equine Paste which primarily targets a specific range of worms, this potent gel provides a broad-spectrum defense against large and small strongyles, encysted cyathostomins, ascarids, and tapeworms. It is designed to be the comprehensive solution for owners looking to simplify their deworming rotation while ensuring high efficacy across the horse's entire life stage. By effectively neutralizing internal threats, it serves as a critical component of any Equimax Dewormer Paste alternative strategy. While owners often manage other pests with specialized products like Bird Mite and Lice Spray or Livestock Fly Control Ear Tag, internal parasite control in horses requires this specialized anthelmintic approach to maintain animal vitality. Unlike general Livestock Dewormer Paste, Quest Plus specifically addresses the unique biological lifecycle of equine parasites, ensuring that the horse remains free from debilitating worm burdens that can lead to colic, weight loss, and reduced performance. The formulation is highly concentrated, making it efficient for large animals, and it works by paralyzing the nervous system of the parasites upon ingestion, leading to their expulsion. Users looking for external pest management for other animals might explore Cattle Fly Pour-On, but for the horse owner, this product is the industry gold standard for internal health. It is an essential tool for farm management, preventing the pasture contamination that often necessitates the use of Bio Spot Active Care or Lyme Sulfur Dip in smaller companion animals. When integrated into a seasonal schedule, Quest Plus reduces the long-term risk of anthelmintic resistance in a stable environment.
What It's For
- Encysted Small Strongyles: Specifically targets the inhibited larval stages of cyathostomins, which are often immune to many other dewormers.
- Tapeworms: The inclusion of praziquantel ensures the effective eradication of Anoplocephala perfoliata.
- Large Strongyles: Eliminates Strongylus vulgaris and other blood-feeding worms that can cause arterial damage.
- Ascarids: Effectively controls Parascaris equorum, particularly in younger horses.
- Bots: Treats both oral and gastric stages of Gasterophilus intestinalis and nasalis.
How To Use
To administer Quest Plus Gel, first ensure the horse's mouth is empty of any food debris, as this can affect the uptake of the medication. Determine the horse's weight using a scale or a weight tape to ensure an accurate dosage, as under-dosing can lead to parasite resistance. The syringe features a calibrated dial ring that can be adjusted to the horse's weight in 50-pound increments; lock the ring at the correct marking to prevent administration of an excessive dose, which is crucial for safety. Insert the syringe into the side of the horse's mouth in the interdental space, aiming toward the back of the tongue, and depress the plunger to deposit the gel. After administration, lift the horse's head briefly to encourage them to swallow the full dose. Monitor the horse for a few minutes following treatment to ensure the product has been consumed and not ejected. Because the gel is highly potent, it is not recommended for use in foals under 6 months of age or in sick, debilitated, or aged horses without prior veterinary consultation.
Precautions
Quest Plus Gel is intended solely for equine use and must be kept strictly away from dogs and cats, as accidental ingestion of moxidectin can lead to severe toxic neurological reactions in other animals. Never exceed the recommended dose, as equine sensitivity to moxidectin is well-documented, and overdosing can lead to ataxia, tremors, and recumbency. Do not use in foals under 6 months of age or in horses that are severely debilitated or compromised by illness, as their physiological systems may be unable to process the medication safely. Always read the label thoroughly for specific contraindications related to your horse's health history.
Key Benefits
- Broad-Spectrum Efficacy: A single dose treats a comprehensive list of internal parasites including the dangerous encysted small strongyles.
- Praziquantel Inclusion: This active ingredient provides specific, industry-leading protection against tapeworms.
- Long-Lasting Action: The unique formulation remains effective in the horse's system for an extended period, which helps reduce the frequency of treatments needed.
- Easy-to-Use Syringe: The precise dial-lock mechanism minimizes waste and ensures that every horse receives the exact dosage required for their weight.
- Safe for Breeding: When used according to the label directions, the product is generally safe for use in breeding, pregnant, and lactating mares.
Where to Buy
Frequently Asked Questions
This information is educational only. Always consult a licensed veterinarian before using new products on your pet.
