Abstract
A case of sarcoptic mange caused by Trixacarus caviae in a conventional guinea pig breeding colony is reported. The infestation was reported in a large colony of guinea pigs during the month of July, 2013 affecting 30 breeder guinea pigs. Severely infested animals were treated individually with subcutaneous injection of ivermectin 1 % w/v (Neomec®) at the rate of 400 µg/kg body weight 10 days apart. Three doses of ivermectin were sufficient to eliminate the parasite which tested negative after 30 days of the first treatment. The entire colony was given preventive dose of ivermectin spray (2 mg/ml solution) following the same schedule. Strict hygienic measures were followed. New hair growth in the severely affected animals was evidenced on 30th day of treatment.
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Acknowledgments
The author thankfully acknowledges the Director, Pasteur institute of India, Coonoor and Dr K N Venkataramana, Assistant director for providing infrastructure to carry out the work, Dr S Sahu for valuable inputs in correcting the manuscript, Mr N M Ramakrishnan and all the staff members of Laboratory Animal Division for their technical support, Dr S. Islam and Dr N N Barman, CVSc, Khanapara, Assam for their valuable guidance in diagnosis and treatment of the case.
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Nath, A.J. Treatment and control of Trixacarus caviae infestation in a conventional guinea pig (Cavia porcellus) breeding colony. J Parasit Dis 40, 1213–1216 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12639-015-0652-6
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12639-015-0652-6