Changes in oxidative stress indices, zinc and copper concentrations in blood in canine demodicosis

Status of certain oxidative stress indices and zinc and copper concentrations in blood were estimated in dogs with localized demodicosis (LD) and generalized demodicosis (GD). In comparison to healthy control, erythrocytic lipid peroxides level and superoxide dismutase activity were significantly (P<0.01) higher in both LD as well as GD. However, level of reduced glutathione and activity of catalase were significantly (P<0.01) lower in both LD and GD. Blood zinc and copper levels in dogs with LD and GD were significantly (P<0.01) lower than healthy control. Significant (P<0.01) differences were also observed in different oxidative stress indices and zinc and copper levels in between LD and GD groups. From the present study, it was concluded that demodicosis is associated with oxidative stress and antioxidant supplementation may be beneficial in management of canine demodicosis.