Ectoparasitoses in Rabbits

This chapter aims to highlight the main features of ectoparasites with impact in rabbits. Major acarioses are described. The Astigmata (Sarcoptiformes) are a large group of relatively similar mites. The order includes the families Sarcoptidae and Psoroptidae, which are of major veterinary importance as they contain the most common mite species causing mange and scab, in domestic animals including rabbits. Psoroptes cuniculi is a cosmopolitan parasite of rabbits that causes infestation primarily in the ears. Psoroptes mites are highly contagious being of importance with respect to general animal health and hygiene and also economic concerns. Sarcoptes scabiei var. cuniculi and Notoedres cati var. cuniculi are highly contagious burrowing mites that can be found in farms and in pet rabbit. They both represent an important cause of skin disease in rabbits. Cheyletiella parasitovorax and Leporacarus gibbus (formerly known as Listrophorus gibbus) are nonburrowing fur mites that affect both wild and domestic rabbits worldwide. Besides infesting domestic and wild rabbits, these mites have zoonotic potential. Being contagious skin parasites, all of these mites are generally transmitted by direct contact with infested animals, but indirect contact is also possible, e.g., with fomites or the contaminated environment. An overview about pediculosis, pulicosis, and ixodidosis is also presented in this chapter.