Fur Mites in Rabbits

Please note that this was not written by me but by my boss´ partner. she is doing an animal healing course and i am typing up her notes. i thought they may be of interest to Petstreet members and so she kindly agreed to letting me add them.

Fur Mites in Rabbits

Known as “Walking dandruff” the cheylehella mite are almost 0.5mm, about the size of a grain of sand, and are visible to the naked eye. Infection does not result in any loss of fur even through they live on the hair shaft and feed on dead skin.

These mites easily pass from rabbit to rabbit and will also move on to humans when handling infecting rabbits. They do not survive long on humans but can bite and this results in a small raised red spot and can cause itchy dry skin on the hands, forearms and chest. The symptoms of fur mite infestation include excessive scratching and visible “dandruff”. An allergy to the mites will result in sores and reddening of the skin.

These mites live in the bedding of rabbits so the living environment also needs to be treated.

Treatment

Bathing with an insecticidal shampoo containing carbamate kills the mites and removes the scurf. It should be repeated weekly for 3 – 6 weeks.

If this is not feasible a cat flea powder suitable for kittens, containing carbaryl, is effective. When applying follow the instructions as for kittens and do not allow any of the powder to be inhaled by the rabbit or the handler. The life cycle of Cheylehella is 5 weeks. There is a rinse containing Malathion, an orqanophosphorus insecticide, which can also be used, with care.

An alternative to using any of the above is an injection of Ivermectin once a week for 3 weeks. Frequent brushing is also advisable. Also there are Invermectin drops (0.8%). One drop per 500g of body weight on the back of the neck for 3 weeks should clear up the condition.

An oral preparation is Ivomec. Given in 1cc syringe once a month to prevent infestation. The ivomec should always be stored in a refrigerator, out of light, in its original box. It will eliminate external parasites such as fleas, fur mites and ear mites.

Products made for dogs should never be used. Vets advise that rabbits kept outside should be on a preventative parasite programme, especially in the summer. Self-medicating an animal needs very careful attention to detail, particularly weight and dosage. If there is any doubt about either consulting a veterinarian is the best option.

Diet

Please refer to Ear Mites in Rabbits.


Complementary Treatment

Healing. For relaxation, strength to cope with the condition, calmness to endure any stress related to treatment that will be administered. Also the known benefit of healing energy supporting and the mind, body and spirit.

Colour

Providing a powder or ice blue blanket, rag, collar will introduce a cooling and relaxing energy in to the rabbits environment. It quietens the energies and has an antiseptic affect. Activating the throat chakra the rabbit may be able to communicate to a receptive owner.

Adding a little yellow will enhance confidence and enthusiasm for life which may be depressed if illness is present.

Crystals

Lapis lazuli has a high electrical vibration and will give strength. It also has a reputation for “singing” and this may help the general health of the rabbit. Never leave an animal alone with crystals.

Homeopathy

Homeopathy can improve the rate of healing and recovery. It can also support the animals emotional state.

Obviously a full health check, even in the case of fur mites, would need to be undertaken by a professional homeopathic veterinarian.

Note

As in all assignments I cannot stress enough how important it is to consult with professionals before undertaking any treatment or home remedy