Therapeutic management of demodicosis in golden hamsters: A review of 5 cases

Abstract

Demodex spp is the most common ectoparasite recognized in golden hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus). Demodex criceti and Demodex aurati are the two distinct species causing demodicosis in hamsters. Five Golden hamsters belongs to different age groups were presented to Teaching Veterinary Clinical Complex, Mannuthy with alopecia and erythema on the dorsal aspect of the body. Physical conditions of animals were slightly below normal. Examination of deep skin scrapings revealed mites identified as Demodex spp. All the five hamsters were treated with subcutaneous administration of ivermectin @ 0.3mg/kg body weight. Topically amitraz dips were recommended at weekly intervals. Oral multivitamin supplements were also given as supportive therapy. The average time period for complete recovery was found to be five consecutive treatments at 2 weeks interval in all the cases. All the animals made an uneventful recovery by 10 weeks period.