Cat fur mite Lynxacarus radovskyi in India

C Jayanthy1, B Nagarajan1, Bhaskaran Ravi Latha2

  • 1Department of Clinics, Madras Veterinary College, TANUVAS, Chennai, India.

Insights

A Persian cat infested with Lynxacarus radovskyi mites, causing a dry coat, was successfully treated with Ivermectin. The cat achieved complete parasite clearance after a five-week treatment regimen.

Area of Science:

  • Veterinary Dermatology
  • Parasitology
  • Feline Medicine

Background:

  • Feline dermatological conditions can significantly impact animal well-being.
  • Lynxacarus radovskyi is an ectoparasite that affects cats, leading to coat abnormalities.
  • Accurate diagnosis and effective treatment are crucial for managing parasitic infestations.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To report a case of Lynxacarus radovskyi infestation in a Persian cat.
  • To describe the clinical presentation and diagnostic findings.
  • To evaluate the efficacy of Ivermectin treatment for this specific mite infestation.

Main Methods:

  • Clinical examination of a Persian cat presenting with a lustreless, dry coat.
  • Microscopical analysis of tape impressions and hair brushings to identify ectoparasites.
  • Treatment administration of Ivermectin at 300 µg/kg subcutaneously weekly for five weeks.

Main Results:

  • Microscopy confirmed the presence of Lynxacarus radovskyi mites and eggs on the cat's hair shafts.
  • The cat showed complete resolution of parasitic infestation five weeks after the treatment concluded.
  • No adverse effects were reported during the treatment period.

Conclusions:

  • Ivermectin is an effective treatment for Lynxacarus radovskyi infestations in cats.
  • Prompt diagnosis and consistent treatment are essential for successful parasite eradication.
  • Preventive measures, including isolation and hygiene, may help control the spread of this mite.