Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Single oral dose of fluralaner treats mites in pygmy African hedgehogs
By Romero, Camilo et al.·Published in Veterinary dermatology·2017·Centro Universitario UAEM Amecameca·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Fluralaner as a single dose oral treatment for Caparinia tripilis in a pygmy African hedgehog.
- Species:
- wildlife
Plain-English summary
A 10-month-old African pygmy hedgehog was brought in for treatment of a skin mite infestation caused by Caparinia tripilis. The owner was concerned because these mites can cause skin problems that are hard to detect due to the hedgehog's spiny coat. The vet administered a single oral dose of fluralaner, and by Day 14, all the mites were dead, with no signs of them remaining by Day 21. This treatment proved effective in clearing the infestation, making it a promising option for hedgehog owners dealing with similar issues.
People also search for: pygmy hedgehog skin mites treatment · fluralaner for hedgehogs · how to treat hedgehog skin problems
Abstract
BACKGROUND: African pygmy hedgehogs (Atelerix albiventris) are popular pets belonging to the Erinaceidae family of spined mammals. Amongst the most common skin diseases occurring in this species is infestation caused by the mite Caparinia spp. Due to their skin anatomy and spiny coat, detection of skin lesions in these hedgehogs can be difficult. This may result in delays in seeking medical care, which may lead to secondary bacterial infection and self-inflicted trauma. Multiple therapies have been used in the treatment of this skin condition including ivermectin, amitraz, fipronil and selamectin. A drug which could be administered as a single oral dose would be advantageous to these pets and their owners. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of a single oral dose (15 mg/kg) of fluralaner on Caparinia tripilis infestation in the African pygmy hedgehog. ANIMALS: A 10-month-old African pygmy hedgehog weighing 184 g. METHODS: Response to treatment was monitored by dermatological examination and superficial skin scrapings repeated at 7, 14, 21, 30, 60, 90 and 120 days following fluralaner administration. RESULTS: On Day 7 after treatment, adult mites were observed exhibiting normal movement. On Day 14, only dead mites were observed. No life stages of the mites were found after Day 21. CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: A single oral dose at 15 mg/kg of fluralaner was effective within 21 days after treatment for capariniasis in this case. Further studies are required to evaluate the drug's safety and toxicology in hedgehogs, and to confirm efficacy.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28691193/