05/19/2026
With warmer weather, it is important that small ruminant producers stay ahead of internal parasites.
Barber pole worm (Haemonchus contortus) is one of the most dangerous parasites in goats because it feeds on blood and can quickly cause severe anemia — especially in warm, wet seasons.
1. Pale Eyelids and Gums (Most Important Sign)
Healthy goats have bright pink lower eyelids.
With barber pole worm:
Eyelids become pale pink, light pink, or white. Gums may also look pale
This is why many goat owners use the FAMACHA scoring system to check anemia levels.
2. Weakness or Lethargy
Affected goats may show these signs:
Lag behind the herd
Sleep more
Act tired or depressed
Be less interested in feed
3. Weight Loss
Even goats eating normally may:
Lose body condition
Develop a rough hair coat
Appear thin over the spine and ribs
4. Bottle Jaw
A common sign of Barber pole in small ruminants.
This is:
Soft swelling under the jaw
Caused by low protein levels from blood loss
Not every goat gets bottle jaw, but when you see it, parasites are a major concern.
5. Sudden Collapse or Death
Heavy infestations can kill goats quickly, especially:
Kids
Pregnant or nursing does
Stressed animals
Sometimes goats show only mild signs before crashing suddenly.
Additional Notes:
Unlike some parasites, barber pole worm often does NOT cause diarrhea.
A goat can have a severe infestation while producing normal pellets.
When Risk Is Highest
Barber pole worm thrives in:
Warm temperatures
Moist conditions
Overgrazed pastures
Peak seasons are often:
Spring
Summer
Early fall
Let's talk about prevention and management!
Prevention & Management Tips:
✔Rotate Pastures
✔Avoid forcing goats to graze very short grass where larvae concentrate.
✔Use FAMACHA checks regularly - Check eyelids every 2–3 weeks during high-risk seasons.
✔Avoid Overusing Dewormers - Over-deworming causes resistance. Many barber pole worms are resistant to common dewormers now. Selective treatment works best.
🍎Support Nutrition
Healthy goats resist parasites better with:
-Adequate protein
-Minerals (especially copper where appropriate)
-Clean water
-Low stress
Reach out to your local Livestock and Forages Agent for more information and be sure to stay up to date with your veterinarian-client relationship in case of an emergency and to maintain routine health checks!
Contact Maggie Miller about upcoming statewide CUCES small ruminant programs and workshops!
Maggie Miller ([email protected])
Additional Reading: https://news.okstate.edu/articles/veterinary-medicine/2021/veterinary_viewpoints_controlling_internal_parasites_in_sheep_and_goats
