Psoroptes cuniculi-Ear Mites These are small mites that live in the ear canal and can usually be seen only with the aid of magnification under a microscope slide. Ear mites cause inflammation and crusting in the ear. The black debris (which I affectionately refer to as “potatoes”) is an accumulation of mites, mites feces, skin cells and serum. If left untreated, mite infestations can lead to secondary bacterial ear infections and are very pruritic (itchy) and painful. The mites are transmitted on debris between cages or with direct rabbit to rabbit contact. A mite as a 21 day life cycle so treatment (topical or injectable) will follow a three week course.
The treatment of choice is usually Ivermectin, the same drug that is used in dogs as a heartworm preventative. The injectable form veterinarians use in not (FDA) approved for this use but Ivermectin has a very wide safety margin and is usually less stressful to the rabbits than topical medications. It is not imperative to remove the crusts since they will fall out with treatment. However, I prefer to soften and remove some on initial treatment.
Chyeylettiella parasitivorax - Chyeyettiella A very lovely name also referred to as “Walking Dandruff”. These are fur mites. They prefer the fur or hair shaft and do not draw blood. Often rabbits do not show any symptoms and the mites go unnoticed. If they are apparent, the skin in the shoulder area is often very scaly and itchy. Veterinarians can show you these creatures under some magnification. These mites are spread through direct contact since the eggs attach to the hair shaft (and we all know how rabbit fur flies!). Occasionally in multi-species households a dog or cat may be affected, or a slight allergic reaction may occur in people. Treatment usually consists of Ivermectin for the rabbit, with the use of flea products for the environment (if needed).
Spilopsyllus cuniculi - Rabbit Flea There is a specific rabbit flea. This is really only a problem if rabbits are allowed outdoor access where they could have exposure to wild rabbits. The fleas are known vectors of disease. In general, dog and cat fleas are not usually a problem, but occasionally crop up in multi-species households. Treatment is usually with standard feline flea products. We never use dips on rabbits. Do not randomly use flea products without checking with your vet.
Myiasis - Maggots These are fly larvae that are on or under the skin. This usually is a problem only for rabbits that are housed outdoors or spend time in the yard without a screen. The possibility of maggots should not totally discourage fresh air and sunshine and grass, but are things to be aware of.
Cuterabra are fly larvae that will pupate under the skin. There will be small air holes that are often mistaken as a wound. Surprisingly they are easily removed and do not do much tissue damage. Treatment is removal and disinfection of the area.
Maggots are fly larvae that feed on fecal material and flesh. (A real life horror movie). They will infest animals that have fecal material stuck to them, or that are debilitated in any way, (wounds, etc.). The maggots are often discovered too late when they have done extensive tissue damage and weakened the animal greatly. This condition is called “Fly strike.” Treatment usually requires sedation, removal of larvae, treatment for shock, antibiotics, Ivermectin and some good nursing care, but with a guarded prognosis. Be careful — This can happen to a well cared for pet in hot summer weather, if some spoiled food is left out, or there’s a small cut or abrasion, or bunny has diarrhea or anything similar.