Notoedric mange successfully treated with ivermectin in rabbits

Notoedric mange, caused by sarcoptiform Notoedres mites, an obligately parasite, causes potentially fatal dermatitis along with secondary systemic infections in small mammals, felids as well as humans. In the present case study, we describe clinical diagnosis and therapeutic management of notoedric mange with ivermectin in rabbits. Two New Zealand White rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) naturally infested with notoedric mange reported with history of varied clinical signs like anorexia, patchy alopecia, intense pruritus, erythema and dry scabs. Several whitish crust-like lesions were observed on ears, nose, face, forelimbs and hindlimbs. Confirmatory diagnosis of Notoedres cati var cuniculi was done by skin scraping from supported by clinical signs and hematological alterations. Both the animals were successfully treated with Ivermectin, a broad spectrum anti-parasitic agent. Both rabbits showed recovery by the end of third week of treatment and it was subsequently confirmed by absence of mites in two consecutive skin scrapings examination at weekly interval. The mite, Notoedres cati is considered as a serious pest of rabbits with ivermectin as still effective drug in treating the clinical cases. Stringent diagnostic strategies need to be prepared for regular screening and control of notoedric infestations in laboratory and pet rabbits.