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[The effect of ivermectin on Psoroptes ear mange in rabbits]
J P Koopman1, P M Scholten, T van Zutphen
1Centraal Dierenlaboratorium Katholieke Universiteit, Nijmegen.
Abstract:
Ivermectin administered to rabbits in drinking water (3 ml of drenching liquid (0.08% w/v ivermectin) per litre of drinking water) for one of five days, gave rise to blood levels persisting on several days and were measured by the death of mosquitoes following a meal of blood from these animals. In practice ivermectin (3 ml/l) was administered to 98 rabbits on a rabbit-meat farm for 24 hours. This treatment was repeated within a fortnight. The degree of ear mange was determined by the amount of incrustation. Within three weeks after treatment was initiated, all animals were free of crusts. Incrustation gradually recurred during the following weeks. After 161 days, approximately ten per cent of the animals showed some incrustation again. Treatment with ivermectin once every six months is advised to suppress ear mange.
Insights
Ivermectin in drinking water effectively treated rabbit ear mange, with symptoms clearing within three weeks. Regular six-month treatments are recommended to maintain parasite suppression.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Parasitology
- Animal Health Management
Context:
- Rabbit farming faces challenges with ectoparasitic infestations like ear mange.
- Effective and practical treatment protocols are crucial for maintaining herd health and productivity.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the efficacy of ivermectin administered via drinking water for treating ear mange in rabbits.
- To determine an optimal treatment frequency for long-term management of ear mange.
Summary:
- Ivermectin (0.08% w/v) in drinking water at 3 ml/l for 24 hours, repeated within a fortnight, cleared ear mange incrustation in 98 rabbits within three weeks.
- Blood levels of ivermectin persisted for several days, confirmed by mosquito mortality after feeding on treated rabbits.
- Recurrence of incrustation was observed after 161 days in approximately 10% of rabbits, suggesting a need for maintenance therapy.
Impact:
- Demonstrates a practical and effective method for controlling ivermectin-susceptible ectoparasites in rabbit populations.
- Supports the implementation of strategic, periodic ivermectin treatments to prevent mange re-emergence and ensure animal welfare.