Exotics Flashcards
1
Q
What is IgY and what is its relationship to IgG?
A
IgY is the major circulating antibody found in birds and reptiles and is the counterpart to mammalian IgG.
IgY has the same general structure as mammalian IgG, with two heavy chains (“nu” chains at ~67-70 kDa) and two light chains (at 22-30 kDa).
2
Q
Feather Loss: Abnormal moults
A
It is important to realize that moulting is a normal process, but the number per year (1/ year in many species, 2/year in many migratory species, q2 years or poorly defined in psittacines) and the type (progressive vs non-progressive). However, a number of external factors can adversely influence moulting, resulting in poor feather quality and/or abnormal pigmentation:
- Nutritional deficits: inadequate protein, decreased amino acids (lysine, choline, methionine, cysteine, cysteine); vitamin A [especially on all seed diets] or beta carotene, riboflavin
- Stress/fear
- Reduction of light period: especially if after prolonged periods of light may initiate moult
- Ectoparasites: see below
- Hypothyroidism: results in retardation of feather growth. Normal T4 levels in birds are lower than mammals.
3
Q
Feather Loss: Feather destructive behavior
A
It may be difficult to differentiate a bird that is truly pruritic due to organic causes from a bird that is feather-picking due to behavioral problems. While the presentation is most commonly due to behavioral problems, more ‘organic’ causes should always be investigated. It is most commonly a problem with psittacines among pet birds. It is important to recall that virtually any disease that causes a change/diminishment in feather quality may lead to the bird trying to remove the affected feathers.
• A UK study showed that 39.4% of 137 African grey parrots and 42.4% of 92 cockatoos exhibited feather-plucking behavior at some point in their lifetime.
• Increasing sleep hours, length of ownership correlated with FDB in African greys.
• Pet shop origin, cage location against >1 wall and >1 vacation per year by
owners correlated with FDB in cockatoos
4
Q
Behavioral causes of feather loss
A
a. These birds are prey species. If they are placed next to a window where they can see crows, hawks, etc., they may compensate for their inability to ‘escape’ with feather- picking
b. These birds are gregarious. A solitary bird, without stimulation (‘bored’), may compensate with feather-picking.
c. These birds in the wild spend approximately 50% of their time foraging. Having food readily available in the cage may again lead to a ‘bored’ bird. Having the bird ‘work’ for its food by putting it in various slightly difficult to open receptacles may be helpful.
d. Attention seeking – the owner may be giving unintentional positive reinforcement by interacting with the bird when it performs ‘bad behavior’ i.e., feather-picking. Ignoring the bird may be helpful – it is beyond the scope of this lecture to talk about behavioral modification training.
e. Separation anxiety. Medication such as clomipramine (0.5-1.0 mg/kg per os bid or fluoxetine 1-2 mg/kg per os bid) may help but must be combined with behavioral modification training.
f. Overcrowding and social stress may lead to feather-plucking and stress over territorial rights. A dominant bird may pluck a subordinate.
g. Sexual frustration has been thought to be an important cause of feather-picking in cockatoos, lovebirds, and African greys. Hand reared birds may become sexually active as early as 6 months.
h. Trauma- any externalor internal injury may be picked at by the bird.
5
Q
Organic causes of feather loss
A
- Ectoparasites: these can cause pruritus and discomfort.
- Endoparasites
- Allergies
- Environmental
- Hypothyroidism
- Liver disease
- Bacterial dermatitis
- Fungal infections
- Viral infections
- Genetic abnormalities
- Neoplasia
- Heavy metal toxicity
6
Q
Harpyrhynchid spp.
A
Several of these affect psittacines, H serini mite affects canaries. They attach to feather bases and in severe cases cause hyperkeratotic epidermal cysts.
7
Q
Dermanyssus (red mites)
A
feed on the bird at night but are free-living and breed in the cage or environment during the day. A white sheet over the cage helps diagnosis in the morning by visualizing the mites. These mites can attack mammals including humans. Most commonly a parasite of chickens.
8
Q
Feather mites
A
these usually do cause problems unless there is a heavy infestation, in which case poor husbandry should be suspected. Budgerigars have at least two species: Protolichus lunula on the wing and tail feathers and Dubininia melopsittaci on smaller body feathers.
9
Q
Mallophaga (biting lice)
A
lice (various species) are species specific and the life cycle is completely on the host. Only Mallophaga (biting lice) affect birds. They are usually easy to see as they travel through the plumage. Louse infestation is a sign of poor husbandry.
10
Q
Treatments for ectoparasites in birds
A
Fipronyl spray (Frontline®) or selamectin spot-on (Revolution® [Stronghold® in Europe]) have all been recommended. If using a spray it is important NOT to soak the bird. Lately, the isoxazolines (afoxolaner, fluralaner) have been shown to be useful and safe in treating mites and lice)
Points to remember: Imidacloprid (Advantage®) is toxic to birds; ivermectin should not be given to finches.
11
Q
Pruritic ectoparasites in birds
A
1) Lice (various species)
2) Knemidocoptes spp (sometimes spelled Cnemidocoptes) mites
3) Dermanyssus (red mites)
4) Feather mites
5) Harpyrhynchid spp.
12
Q
Organic causes of pruritus in birds: endoparasites
A
Giardia infection has been linked to pruritus in budgerigars, lovebirds, and cockatiels
13
Q
Organic causes of pruritus in birds: allergies
A
while there is good evidence of an atopic-dermatitis-type condition in some birds (especially large psittacines) based on intradermal testing, effective and safe treatment has not been well substantiated.
14
Q
Organic causes of pruritus in birds: environmental
A
1) excess tobacco smoke, aerosols, building dust, low humidity (central heating turned up) may all lead to pruritus or poor father quality which resulting in brittle feathers which break as the bird plucks them. Many psittacines evolved in rain forest conditions, and a dry environment may lead to poor quality feathers that the bird will try to remove. These birds may benefit from water misting.
15
Q
Organic causes of pruritus in birds: liver disease
A
example Chlamydophila infection. This can cause many clinical signs, but skin-wise may cause pruritus with subsequent feather removal.
16
Q
Organic causes of pruritus in birds: neoplasia
A
Birds may pluck over the site of a skin cancer
17
Q
Organic causes of pruritus in birds: bacterial
A
olliculitis/pulpitis has been reported especially in the developing feather. Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus intermedius have been isolated from birds – the frequency of these organisms causing infection and subsequent pruritus is not known. Recent studies suggest that the uropygial gland secretions may have broad anti-microbial properties.
18
Q
Organic causes of pruritus in birds: viral
A
Circovirus (aka Psittacine Beak and Feather disease – PBFD)
Polyoma virus.
19
Q
Organic causes of pruritus in birds: fungal
A
these may be underdiagnosed. Candida has been reported especially in gallinaceous birds in the vet area and in pet birds around the head – feather follicle involvement shows white crusting around the affected follicles. Dermatophytes may cause patchy feather loss especially on the head, neck and breast. Malassezia has been implicate as a cause of pruritus by some authors.
Point to remember: Itraconazole may be toxic to Grey parrots
20
Q
Organic causes of pruritus in birds: genetic
A
feather dusters’ and ‘straw feather’ affect budgerigars. These interesting names describe the visual appearance of the affected birds. Feather cysts occur in certain lines of canaries.
21
Q
Organic causes of pruritus in birds: heavy metal toxicity
A
primarily lead, zinc, copper or iron, generally from new cages or toys, may cause abnormal feathers to develop that the bird tries to remove.
22
Q
Circovirus (aka Psittacine Beak and Feather disease – PBFD).
A
A DNA virus which can remain in the environment for up to one year. Several strains: PBFD I is found in many species while PBFD is found in lorikeets. More common in young bird and in Old World psittacines. Several presentations:
a. Peracute (usually no skin signs)
b. acute(occurs during first feather formation and leads to rapid development of dystrophic feathers);
c. chronic (birds 6 months to 3 years old, leads to dystrophic feathers, lack of powder down, pulp cavity hemorrhage, feather fracture, hyperkeratosis, beak overgrowth or fracture, oral ulcerations. As the disease is immunosuppressive, secondary infections are common).
Diagnosis is via PCR on the blood or pulpy feathers. Treatment is supportive care. The disease in lorikeets may be less severe and full recovery may be possible.
23
Q
Polyoma virus
A
DNA (Papovavirus) which affects all psitacines and passerines (watch for finches with beak overgrowth). Clinical signs in budgerigars include neonatal death, reduced down and contour feathers. If the neonates survive, they lose tail and flight feathers and are known as ‘French moulters’, ‘runners’, ‘creepers’ or ‘crawlers.
PBFD (circovirus) can cause similar signs and is probably more common. This feather loss will eventually resolve but the birds are carriers. The disease is much less common in other psittacines and typically only affects very young birds. In passerines acute death is the most common presentation, but beak and feather abnormalities may also be present. Diagnosis is by PCR, but the psittacine PCR does not work in finches.
24
Q
List 2 cutaneous neoplasias in birds
A
Poxvirus
Papilloma virus
25
Poxvirus
A DNA virus. Pox viral infections can affect the oral cavity, the trachea, and can cause a septicemia. In the skin, the virus causes nodules, papules, or vesicles. This cutaneous form is most common in songbirds and raptors affecting the feet, eyes and face. Canaries and finches, in addition to the skin lesions, will often develop severe pulmonary complications. Lovebird pox causes lesions on the face, oral and nasal cavities, axilla, shoulder and abdomen – lesions are discolored, pruritic and often infected secondarily with bacteria. The form affecting Amazon parrots is self-limiting for skin lesions but often fatal with the diptheric (oral cavity and trachea) form. Diagnosis is through histology or impressions smears demonstrating the intra-cytoplasmic eosinophilic inclusion (Bollinger) bodies. As pox virus is spread via insect vectors, control of pests is important.
26
Papilloma virus
Yet another DNA virus, this one causes benign epithelial tumors, often affecting the cloaca, oral cavity or skin. Usual treatment is surgical removal if practical. Spontaneous remission has been described.
27
List nutritional deficits in birds that cause feather loss
Inadequate protein, decreased amino acids (lysine, choline, methionine, cysteine, cysteine); vitamin A [especially on all seed diets] or beta carotene, riboflavin
28
Dysecdysis
is the term given to abnormal shedding of the skin. It is important to remember that dysecdysis is not a disease per se; rather it is be a sign of other problems including poor husbandry, ectoparasitism (such as the snake mite, Ophionyssus natricis), systemic disease, too cold an ambient temperature, improper humidity, poor nutrition, and attempts to pull off the shedding skin by well-meaning but misinformed owners. Retained skin around the digits of lizards can lead to ischemia with subsequent necrosis, necessitating amputation of the digits.
29
Ophionyssus natricis
the snake mite, is a common parasite of snakes and lizards. Pruritus, dysecdysis, snakes staying in water are typical signs.
This mite may serve as a vector of Aeromonas. Previously reported treatments are: ivermectin (0.2 mg/kg at 2 week intervals), ivermectin spray (5mg/l) on animals and environment weekly for 5 times. Remember ivermectin is TOXIC to chelonians. Moxidectin has also been recommended. Another method to treat snakes is to spray a towel with fipronil spray (Frontline®) then wipe the snake with the towel. Pyrethroids and organophosphates should be avoided. Cages should be disinfected with bleach diluted 1/20 with water, then rinsed well. A recent report describes successful treatment of this mite with afoxalaner at 2mg/kg orally, once.
This mite should be searched for and the infestation treated on reptiles introduced in the collection as well as on fomites such as branches. Quarantine and treatment of new animals should be followed. The parasite can be difficult to completely eliminate from collections. Transmission of the mite to humans has been reported. Similar mites, in the same genus (ex: Ophionyssus lacertinus) are found in lizards.
30
Ophionyssus serves as a vector for what disease?
This mite may serve as a vector of Aeromonas. Aeromonas spp. are Gram-negative, frementative, and oxidase-positive bacteria. They have been associated with disease in some lizards, in particular the Aeromonas hydrophila species.
31
Ivermectin is TOXIC to ______.
chelonians (turtles and tortoises)
32
Ophionyssus lacertinus
lizard mite
33
Chrysosporium anamorph of Nannizziopsis vriesii
‘yellow-fungus disease'
Is devastating reptile collections (primarily lizards) all over the world. CANV often may be misdiagnosed as a Trichophyton species. Bearded dragons and chameleons predominated early reports.
Demonstrating the organism on both culture and histopathology, plus (ideally) by DNA sequencing, may be limited by owner finances or difficulties in identification or isolation. Itraconazole is occasionally effective; posaconazole and voriconazole are probably more effective. Terbinafine has also been suggested as a treatment: it is possible that combining this drug with an azole may be more effective than either alone. This disease often becomes systemic. There are a number of fungi in the Chrysosporium genus that can adversely affect reptiles and other animals, including people.
34
CANV often may be misdiagnosed as a what fungal species?
Trichophyton species
35
Bacterial infections in reptiles
As poikilotherms (‘cold blooded’), reptiles’ immune systems are ‘slower’ to respond to infections. This is especially obvious in abscesses, which are very common, and in the long length of time some reptiles need to be on antibiotics (months). Abscesses are often best treated by removal, rather than lancing and draining, as in reptiles they are not liquid but rather granulomatous in consistency. In regards to antibiotics different species have different dosage regimens (see Table I, and Mitchell reference). Petechiae, especially in chelonians, may signify sepsis, as may a ventral ‘flush’ in snakes. Dermatophilus congolensis has been reported in bearded dragons and is zoonotic.
36
Dermatophilus congolensis has been reported in what reptile species and is it zoonotic?
Dermatophilus congolensis has been reported in bearded dragons and is zoonotic
37
Burns in reptiles
Reptiles do not seem to be able to realize when a focal source of heat (example: a ‘heat rock’ or a lamp) is so hot that they will be burned. The reason for this is unknown, but heat rocks should not be used. Other sources of burns are incandescent lights, contact with any hot substrate, or temperatures above 50°C. Clinically, burns appear as areas of erythema, (± edema), exudation, crusts ,and ultimately as necrosis with sloughing of the skin. Secondary bacterial infection is very common. Treatment consists of placing the patient in a container without sand or any substrate (so as to avoid these sticking to the wound areas or topical treatments) antibiotic(silversulfadiazine) cream, and (per Dr. Patrick Bourdeau’s recommendation) topical vitamin A ointment. Turtles should be bathed only 3-4 times weekly (except soft-shelled species) and most importantly change the responsible heating device to a safer one.
38
Shell problems in chelonians:
these often relate to
1) too high a humidity for tortoises
2) bacterial or occasionally fungal infections, causing (a) shell necrosis (b) ulcerative shell disease (Vibrionaceae: Beneckea chitinivora) (c) Septicemic Cutaneous Ulcerative Disease (SCUD - Citrobacter freundii)
3) poor nutrition (low-calcium diet)
Treatment depends on causation. Antibiotics, both topical and systemic, cleaning of enclosure, and balancing the diet may all be indicated.
39
Septicemic Cutaneous Ulcerative Disease (SCUD) is caused by what organism?
The bacteria Citrobacter freundii is often responsible for SCUD, though there are other bacteria that have been isolated in this condition.
40
Emydomyces testavorans
a newly described keratinophilic fungal organism which is associated with ulcerative skin and shell disease and may be underdiagnosed. Keratin inclusion cysts are a common feature of infection.
It is an onygenalean fungus that has been isolated from shell lesions of freshwater aquatic turtles.
41
Blister disease in snakes and lizards
The most frequent are inappropriate humidity (for example, green tree pythons may need as > 95% relative humidity, whereas sand boas need <40%), various secondary bacterial and fungal pathogens, and concurrent systemic disease. Vesicles and pustules, which evolve into ulcers and necrosis, are found primarily on the ventrum. Treatment depends on the underlying disease process, but generally includes lancing the blister, applying antibiotic ointment and/or chlorhexidine to the affected areas, and removing the reptile to another terrarium without contaminated substrate.
42
Nutritional skin diseases in reptiles
```
Besides imbalances in calcium, deficiencies of vitamin A (usually young chelonians – palpebral edema, aural abscesses, sometimes dyskeratosis),
vitamin C (chelonians and snakes - stomatitis), iodine (perhaps caused by ingestion of certain plants, affects chelonians and lizards, presents as goiters) have been reported.
Steatitis in snakes, is caused by a diet too high in fats (fish, obese rats) which leads to unsaturated fatty acid oxidation and a secondary vitamin E deficiency. This presents as a yellowish color of the skin, nodules, inflammation, and eventually secondary bacterial infections and sloughing.
```
In addition to these deficiencies, reptiles may also get hypervitaminosis A, sometimes caused by iatrogenic administration, which can cause sloughing of the skin. In addition, the excess vitamin A causes dry, exudative, thickened skin.
Treatment of all of the above diseases obviously depends on correcting the dietary imbalances. Remember that nutrition in reptiles is not monolithic: Different reptiles are omnivores, herbivores, or carnivores. Some switch from one to the other as they mature. All snakes are carnivores. Some recommended dosages: Vitamin C 10-20mg/kg q24h per os or subcutaneous; Vitamin A 40 IU/100g bw per os for 2-3 weeks
43
Otitis is most common in what reptile species?
Usually presents as otitis media and is most comon in chelonians, rare in lizards. Clinical signs are to nodular lesions (abscesses) on lateral head. Various bacteria are implicated, especially Proteus morganii.
Treatment is surgical, with lancing and removal of pus, packing with antibiotic cream, and systemic antibiotics.
In chelonians aural abscess have been associated with hypovitaminosis
44
What bacterial species is most commonly associated with otitis media in chelonians?
Proteus morganii
45
List pruritic parasites in rabbits
Psoroptes cuniculi
Ctenocephalides sp.
Spilopsyllus cuniculi
Sarcoptes scabeii
rodents, rabbits, others (Ornithonyssus bacoti).
46
List pruritic parasites in G.pigs?
Trixacarus caviae
| Chirodiscoides caviae
47
List pruritic parasites in hamsters
Notoedres muris
48
List pruritic parasites in rats and mice
Myobia musculi, Myocoptes musculinus, Radfordia ensifera, Notoedres muris, Liponyssus bacoti, Polyplax spinulosa, Polyplax serrata
49
List pruritic parasites in rodents and rabbits
Ornithonyssus bacoti
50
Psoroptes cuniculi
(rabbit ear mite)
This parasite causes otitis externa and rarely otitis media which can result in neurologic signs.
Rabbits will present with head shaking, pruritus of ears and head and/or ear dropping (this may be the initial sign). Pinna and canals will be erythematous and will have a thick crust which is often red-brown in color.
Other parts of the body may be rarely affected. Do NOT attempt removal of crusts as this is quite painful !! Use systemic anti-parasiticides, as discussed below. Sarcoptic mange has also been reported in pet rabbits and especially in rabbit colonies.
51
Trixacarus caviae
(guinea pig sarcoptid mite)
T. caviae infestation should be considered as the FIRST differential for any pruritic guinea pig.
Do NOT rule it out if the cage-mate does not show any clinical signs. Convulsions resembling seizures can be seen in guinea pigs due to the intense pruritus and debilitation experienced by some affected animals.
52
Notoedres muris
hamster and rat sarcoptid mite
Notoedric acariasis in hamsters affects mainly the ears, face, genitalia and tail.
The diagnosis can be made by distribution and characterization of the clinical signs and by performing skin scrapings. Rats affected by notoedric acariasis resemble hamsters clinically, except that they sometimes present with nasal ‘horns’.
Frequently the mite can be visualized when performing a skin scrape of this nasal hyperkeratotic lesion.
53
Lice
Seen in small numbers in rabbits and rodents. Large numbers may indicate an infestation with another skin parasite, or an underlying systemic disease (hypovitaminosis C in Guinea pigs, for example). Polyplax serrata (mice) and Polyplax spinulosa (rats) may serve as vectors for Mycoplasma (Haemobartonella) muris, Encephalitozoon cuniculi, and Eperythrozoon coccoides.
54
Polyplax serrata (mice) and Polyplax spinulosa (rats) may serve as vectors for what 3 diseases?
Mycoplasma (Haemobartonella) muris, Encephalitozoon cuniculi, and Eperythrozoon coccoides
55
Treatment of epidermal mites and lice
Ivermectin
Selamectin
Imidacloprid/moxidectin
Imidacloprid (Advantage, Bayer)
56
Ivermectin in rodents
0.2 to 0.4 mg/kg q 2 weeks for 2 to 3 treatments PO or SQ. However, ivermectin should not be administered orally to guinea pigs due to difficulties with GI absorption.9 Specifically for Notoedres muris in hamsters and rats: ivermectin 0.5 mg/kg administered q1-2wks PO, SQ or in the form of a pour-on solution for at least 8 weeks is recommended.8,10 In rabbits, ivermectin has been used to treat Cheyletiella infestations in doses ranging from 0.2-2.1 mg/kg SQ q11 days x 3 or 0.6-2.7 mg/kg PO q10 days x 3.11
57
Selemectin treatment in rodents
Selamectin (Revolution, Zoetis)
58
Imidacloprid/moxidectin in rodents
This has also been shown to be effective for ear mites applied 3 times, 30 days apart,14 as well as effective against Ornithonyssus bacoti. 14a A single subcutaneous dose of eprinomectin at 200 or 300 microg/kg was able to eliminate P. cuniculi infection in rabbits15, although topical protocols with this drug have not been as effective.15a This same product was effective in treating guinea pigs infested with Gliricola porcelli with only one application.
59
Imidacloprid treatment in rodents
hould be effective in treating lice (but not mite) infestation, however, again, dosages have not been well-researched.
60
Do NOT use ________ in rabbits (or hedgehogs) as its use has been associated with fatalities.
fipronil (Frontline/Frontline Plus, Merial) there may be adverse effects from the spray form in hedgehogs, which may be due to this species’ predisposition for respiratory problems as well as their tendency to roll up in a ball (putting the nares in close proximity to the sprayed skin).
61
Topical lime sulfur in rodents
This is an option to manage lice in rats and mice at 1:32 dilution with water.
62
Fleas in rodents
Domestic rabbits are often exposed to fleas Ctenocephalides sp. when they share the household with a dog or cat. In pet rabbits housed outside or exposed to wild rabbits, various flea species may be found including the rabbit flea Spilopsyllus cuniculi. Infestations of S. cuniculi are common in rabbit colonies. The life cycle of this flea is controlled by the hormonal cycle of the host, which explains the sudden proliferation seen on pregnant does and young rabbits. S. cuniculi is also important as a vector for myxomatosis. S. cuniculi most often bites on the pinnae and face, and may also bite cats and dogs. Pruritus is variable in flea infestation in rabbits, but may be severe. Imidacloprid (Advantage®: Bayer), a topical adulticide, has been shown to be safe and effective in flea control in rabbits, and is licensed for this purpose in the United Kingdom.
63
What is the name of the 'rabbit flea'?
The rabbit flea is Spilopsyllus cuniculi. Infestations of S. cuniculi are common in rabbit colonies.
64
Internal neoplasia in rats
s not a well-documented cause of pruritus but the author has seen a few pruritic rats with internal neoplasia, although the association between the pruritus and neoplasia was not proven, i.e. the neoplasia was not removed/treated to determine if the pruritus would resolve.
65
Causes of alopecia without pruritus in rabbits
Causes of this clinical presentation include: dermatophytes, barbering, shedding, Demodex sp and endocrinopathies.
66
Rodent dermatophytosis
The usual dermatophyte species affecting rabbits and rodents are Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Microsporum canis, and M. gypseum. T. mentagrophytes is the most common in laboratory colonies, pet shops, etc, but M. canis may be more common in house pets. Clinical signs besides alopecia may include scales, crusts and erythema. Trichophyton porcellae has been identified in Guinea pigs.
67
What is the common dermatophyte species found on guinea pigs?
Trichophyton porcellae
68
Treatment of dermatophytosis in rodents
Itraconazole 5-10 mg/kg daily, for 1 month, although the drug is probably safe for up to 3 months. Terbinafine 10mg/kg for 2 to 6 weeks, making a suspension of the terbinafine in water or syrup. It may be more efficacious than the azoles.16a
Griseofulvin – 15 to 25 mg/kg PO for 4 weeks. Avoid its use in pregnant animals (teratogenic).
Lime sulfur topical 1:32 dilution with water 2-3 times weekly – can be used as sole treatment or adjunctive.
Enilconazole (Imaveral, Janssen – not available in USA) 2 times weekly is effective, however, rabbits and rodents are frequent groomers, and thus may ingest too much of the medication.
Clipping is not recommended due to difficulties and stress. The environment should be disinfected (discard bedding, wash cages in lime sulfur, etc.).
69
Treatment of dermatophytosis in rodents
Itraconazole 5-10 mg/kg daily, for 1 month, although the drug is probably safe for up to 3 months. Terbinafine 10mg/kg for 2 to 6 weeks, making a suspension of the terbinafine in water or syrup. It may be more efficacious than the azoles.
Griseofulvin – 15 to 25 mg/kg PO for 4 weeks. Avoid its use in pregnant animals (teratogenic).
Lime sulfur topical 1:32 dilution with water 2-3 times weekly – can be used as sole treatment or adjunctive.
Enilconazole (Imaveral, Janssen – not available in USA) 2 times weekly is effective, however, rabbits and rodents are frequent groomers, and thus may ingest too much of the medication.
Clipping is not recommended due to difficulties and stress. The environment should be disinfected (discard bedding, wash cages in lime sulfur, etc.).
70
Barbering in guinea pigs (when guinea pigs chew each other’s hair) is often associated with a lack of what in their diet?
fiber
71
Define 'fur slip'
“Fur slip” in chinchilla – When frightened or stressed this species will shed tufts of hair (fur). It may take 3 to 5 months for hair to regrow.
72
What are the two species of Demodex found on Syrian hamsters?
This is most common in Syrian hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus) which have two species:
Demodex aurati – a long mite that lives in the hair follicle
Demodex criceti – a short mite that lives on/in the stratum corneum (more pruritic)
73
Demodex aurati
long mite that lives in the hair follicle of Syrian hamsters
74
Demodex criceti
a short mite that lives on/in the stratum corneum (more pruritic) of Syrian hamsters
75
Treatment of demodicosis in rodents
Ivermectin at 0.3 mg/kg SQ every 7 to 10 days or PO every 24 hours has been reported as effective.7 Treat until resolved and look for underlying diseases. Topical lime sulfur (1:32 dilution with water, twice weekly for 6 treatments) may be effective against the stratum corneum mite, D. criceti. There is one report of the topical use of 0.017% coumaphos (!) in the treatment of an unidentified Demodex species in a hamster.20 A recent report documents effectiveness of fluralaner against D aurati and D criceti in a golden hamster, at a dose of 25mg/kg, repeated in 60 days.
76
Endocrine alopecia is most commonly seen in what two species of rodents?
hamsters and guinea pigs.
77
Hyperadrenocorticism in rodents
Most common in hamsters, both pituitary dependent and adrenal tumor forms have been noted. Besides alopecia, skin hyperpigmentation, polyuria, polydypsia and polyphagia can be seen. Consistently effective treatment has not been well described.
A recent report documents this disease in a guinea pig, using salivary cortisol levels before and after ACTH administration, as well as successful treatment with trilostane at 2-4 mg per day.
78
Cystic ovaries in rodents
Most common in guinea pigs and associated with hyperestrogenism. Alopecia when present affects the flanks and is symmetrical and bilateral. Enlarged abdomen is a common sign. Age: 18 months to 5 years. Ovariohysterectomy is the preferred method of treatment.6 The surgery is not easy, due to the position of the ovaries and the relatively large GI tract. The following have been reported as medical treatments.
79
The following have been reported as medical treatments for cystic ovaries in guinea pigs?
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin:
Drug most commonly used for this condition
Dose: 1000 IU/guinea pig IM, repeated in 7-10 days (can be a large amount IM)
Stimulates an antibody response – makes subsequent doses potentially less effect + could cause allergic reaction with repeated use
GnRH:
Does not stimulate an immune response
Dose: 25 μg/guinea pig every 2 weeks for 2 injections
Volume less than Human Chorionic Gonadotropin
Commerically available form – Cystorelin®, Merial
80
Alopecia areata has been reported in what species of rodent?
Guinea pig
81
Causes of scaling and crusting dermatoses in rodents include:
```
Cheyletiella sp mites
Venereal spirochetosis (rabbit syphilis)
Hypovitaminosis C (guinea pig)
sebaceous adenitis
cutaneous lymphoma
thymoma
```
82
Cheyletiella sp
(non-burrowing mites): Cheyletiellosis in rabbits is a very common cause of mild to severe scaly dermatosis. It is zoonotic and contagious to other animal species such as dogs and cats. Diagnosis is by finding mites on skin scrapings or acetate tape preparations. In a recent article from South Korea,Cheyletiella parasitovorax and Leporacarus gibbus (another, less common, fur
mite of rabbits),were found in 80 and 6, respectively, of 140 rabbits. Clinical signs of pruritus and scaling were observed in 17 of 80 and 76 of 80 infested rabbits, respectively.21cBoth these mites can cause dermatitis in humans.21d Treatment is selamectin as per treatment for ear mites (Psoroptes cuniculi). Lime sulfur dips (1:32dilution with water) 3 to 4 weekly dips are also effective, but messy and cumbersome in rabbits.
83
Treponema paraluiscuniculi
(formerly, Treponema cuniculi) is the organism causing venereal spirochetosis (rabbit syphilis). Clinical signs include crusts, erythema, edema, papules, vesicles, ulcers and proliferative lesions localized to the face and perineum. In one study, lesions were found most frequently around the nose followed by the genitalia, lips, eyelids, and anus. Sneezing was observed in 33% of cases with nasal lesions.22 In cases of maternally acquired infection, lesions could be initially found mainly on the face. Lesions are painful but not pruritic. The disease may be associated with metritis, abortion and neonatal death. Rabbit syphilis is NOT zoonotic.
Diagnosis is by microscopic visualization of T. cuniculi from skin scrapes on dark field microscopy, or special silver stains to demonstrate the organisms on biopsy. Additionally, the serologic tests used to diagnose syphilis in humans can be used.
Treatment:
Penicillin G at 40,000 to 80,000 IU/kg SC, weekly for 3 treatments. It is very important to monitor for signs of associated antibiotic enterotoxemia. Treat all in-contact rabbits.2,3,23 Chloramphenicol has been used successfully at a dosage of 55mg/kg q 12 h for 4 weeks. Another treatment is azithromycin 30 mg/kg/day given orally once or twice daily for 15 days; effectiveness in a large number of rabbits has not yet been reported, but this dose seems to be effective in experimental situations.
84
Sebaceous adenitis
has been reported in domestic rabbits as a cause of alopecia and non-pruritic scaly dermatosis.25 Diagnosis is by biopsy. The author is unaware of a favorable response reported to retinoids or glucocorticoids in the small number of rabbits treated. One report showed sebaceous adenitis and thymoma in the same rabbit.26 A similar presentation was seen in a rabbit with hepatopatits.27 Histopathology showed a cell-poor interface dermatitis (lymphocytic infiltration and apoptotic cells in basal layer of epidermis), absence of sebaceous glands and lymphocytic mural folliculitis.27 A case report documents a rabbit with sebaceous adenitis that was successfully treated with a combination of cyclosporine and a supplement of medium-chain triglycerides.27a Another case report showed better success by adding topical application of a shampoo, spray and spot-on containing the ceramide precursor phyosphingosine.27b
85
Cutaneous lymphoma
as been reported in hamsters, rabbits, mice, a guinea pig, and gerbils.28-30c It presents with severe alopecia, erythema and scaling. Prognosis is poor. As noted above, there is one report of a hamster having both demodicosis (with D. aurati) and cutaneous lymphoma.17 An early report in rabbits noted a T-cell origin of the lymphocytes invading the epidermis29, while a recent review of 25 cutaneous lymphomas in European pet rabbits classified the tumors as diffuse large B cell lymphomas, with 11 tumors exhibiting a T cell-rich B cell subtype.
86
Thymoma
One report describes 4 rabbits with confirmed mediastinal neoplasms, 2 thymomas 1 thymic lymphoma, 1 unknown. All rabbits presented with multifocal alopecia, erythema, follicular casts and scaling .Histology of the skin showed orthokeratosis, lymphocytic exocytosis, lymphocytic mural and interface folliculitis, and absent sebaceous glands, similar to some previous reports of sebaceous adenitis in this species.
87
Causes of nodular dermatoses in rodents
infectious/ulcerative pododermatitis
myxomatosis
mouse pox
trichofolliculoma
88
Nodules were the most common lesion seen in _____ in one report
hamsters
89
In hamsters, multiple trichofolliculomas have been associated with what virus?
polyoma virus
90
The most common subcutaneous nodule in companion rats was what tumor type?
mammary gland fibroadenoma
Additionally, a Zymbal gland (auditory sebaceous gland) carcinoma was reported as presenting as otitis externa in a pet rat.
91
Pododermatitis
(“Sore Hocks”) has been reported in rabbits and guinea pigs, and noted in rats. It was the most common skin disease noted in two retrospective case series
92
Pododermatitis in rabbits
Ulcerative pododermatitis is a chronic ulcerative granulomatous dermatitis of the metatarsal area seen in mainly in overweight inactive rabbits kept on wet bedding, grid floors, rough cages and/or unsanitary conditions. Hereditary factors are also thought to be involved and Rex rabbits are particularly affected as they lack protective guard hairs.
Lesions are bilateral, in the plantar aspect of metatarsal area with a progression of lesions typified by erythema, hyperkeratosis, crusts, pus, necrosis, osteomyelitis and septicemia. The treatment is difficult and based on correction of predisposing conditions, surgical drainage, topical antimicrobials, surgical dressings, and systemic antibiotics (based on culture and sensitivity)
In a recent article investigating pododermatitis in pet rabbits, there was no statistical correlation between body condition score and the presence of pododermatitis, but there was a statistically significant predilection in rabbits greater than 12 months of age, females, and neutered rabbits of either sex.
93
Why are Rex rabbits more affected with pododermatitis compared to other breeds?
Rex rabbits are particularly affected as they lack protective guard hairs.
94
What microorganism most commonly associated with pododermatitis secondary infections?
The secondary infectious agent most commonly present is Staphylococcus aureus
95
What is botryomycosis?
A rare chronic pyogranulomatous infection reported to be caused by several bacteria, has been reported in two pet rabbits.
96
Pododermatitis in Guinea pigs
Ulcerative pododermatitis is relatively common in guinea pigs. As in rabbits, S aureus is generally isolated, although Corynebacterium pyogenes may also be found. Obesity, poor hygiene, hypovitaminosis C, and wire flooring are all predisposing factors. Lesions are bilateral, on the plantar aspects of the metacarpal and metatarsal areas with a progression of erythema, hyperkeratosis, pus, necrosis, osteomyelitis and septicemia. Treatment involves topical antiseptics (silver sulfadiazine or mupirocin may be helpful) and systemic antibiotic therapy (enrofloxacin as noted above) and bandaging, plus addressing the underlying cause. However, treatment is often unsuccessful, and systemic amyloidosis often occurs due to the chronic infection
97
Myxomatosis
caused by a myxoma virus of the pox virus group, which is transmitted by various arthropod vectors, or through physical transport of the virus. New World rabbits are very resistant to this disease, but Old World rabbits are extremely susceptible (and pet rabbits are Old World rabbits). There are various strains of this virus. Clinical signs in peracute and acute cases are edema of the head, ears, eyelids and genitalia and milky oculonasal discharge. Firm non-pruritic and erythematous nodules (myxomas) are usually associated with less virulent strains and develop at the site of infection.
Lethargy, fever and anorexia can be present. Morbidity and mortality are high in pet rabbits, approaching 100%. The incubation period can range from 8 to 21 days. The diagnosis is by the clinical signs, typical microscopic lesions and virus isolation. Supportive treatment, vector control, and a vaccine (not commercially available in the USA) may be offered/discussed with the owner; the prognosis is grave
98
Mouse pox
infectious ectromelia is caused by a orthopoxvirus. It is usually observed in colony situations. Transmission: oral-fecal and respiratory routes, skin abrasion and contact with contaminated bedding, serum (an important source of infection in experimental laboratories that use mouse serum products), etc. Clinical signs are small crusts, papules, swellings, ulceration, and necrosis of feet, ear or tail. Mortality and morbidity vary with each outbreak and mice strain. The diagnosis is often made by
electron microscopy, immunohistochemistry, animal inoculations, serologic testing, virus isolation,
and/or PCR.
99
Mustela putorius furo
The ferret (Mustela putorius furo) is a domestic animal descended from either the
European or Siberian polecat. Ferrets belong to the family Mustelidae which also
includes other weasels, mink, otters etc. The fitch ferret (as it became known), was used
for hunting rodents and rabbits and farmed for its fur.
There are many color variations, including, but not limited to: sable “fitch” with the clearly defined mask and dark eyes; pastel, cream-colored with light colored mask, dark eyes; Siamese with brown guard hairs; cinnamon with reddish guard hairs; albino (white) with no mask or patterning and red eyes; silver mitt (white or silver fur, black eyes,
usually white feet); and gnome (brown or pastel with four white paws and throat patch).
100
ntact (non-spayed) females will lose their haircoat after the first ovulation of the season (early spring) and will re-grow after ____.
successful mating
101
Ferrets have active ______, which accounts for their musky body odor
sebaceous glands
102
What is the most common ear mite found on Ferrets?
(Otodectes cyanotis) are the same species that affects dogs and cats. Clinical signs (if present) include head shaking and scratching at the ears. Neurologic deficits and head tilt have been reported in ferrets with secondary otitis media. Diagnosis is by demonstration on ear swab cytology.
103
What is the treatment for ear mites in ferrets?
Ivermectin - 0.4 mg/kg divided between each ear canal and applied topically; repeat in Two weeks (more effective than systemic treatment).
Selamectin (Revolution® or Stronghold®, Zoetis) - used anecdotally in ferrets with promising results at 1 Small cat tube per ferret (6mg/kg), monthly.
104
What species of fleas are commonly found on ferrets?
re usually Ctenocephalides spp.2 At present none of the systemic flea products are approved for use in ferrets in the USA. However, the following medications have been successfully used with the same recommendations as for cats, adjusting the dosages for the reduced ferret body weight:
105
What are the common treatments for fleas in ferrets?
Imidacloprid (Advantage®, Bayer) at 10 mg/kg monthly.
Fipronil (Top Spot/Frontline®, Merial) at half to one full cat dose. The concerns in rabbits and hedgehogs have not yet been shown in ferrets.
Selamectin – same dose as noted above for ear mites.
Lufenuron (Program®, Novartis) 45 mg (1/2 the cat dose) monthly.
Imidacloprid 10%/moxidectin 1% (Advocate®/Advantage Multi®, Bayer) q3-4 weeks [approved in the USA for fleas and heartworm prevention]
106
Ferret Demodicosis
s quite rare in ferrets. Affected animals may have been predisposed by treatment with topical corticosteroids. Clinical signs included alopecia, pruritus, and excess scaling, and an otitis externa. Amitraz has been reported as successful treatment at 0.0125% applied to the skin q5-7 days for 2 months, with the same solution placed in the ears, 2 drops q 48 hours.3
107
Sarcoptes scabei in ferrets
has been reported in ferrets. One report had four ferrets whose clinical signs were limited to the feet.4 This disease should respond well to selamectin, as noted above for ear mites.
108
Canine distemper in ferrets
an cause an erythematous rash that usually begins on the chin and progresses over the whole body, with hyperkeratosis of the footpads, planum nasale and pinna. Pruritus may be present. Respiratory signs, consisting of severe mucopurulent discharge and pneumonia also commonly occur
109
Malassezia dermatitis in ferrets
has been reported in ferrets. Treatment has not been well documented, but presumably systemic or topical azoles or terbinafine would be appropriate.
110
What tumor type is the most common cutaneous tumors in ferrets?
MCTs account for approximately 25% of all cutaneous tumors
Ferret MCT is most common on head, neck, shoulders, trunk, and presents as raised, smooth hairless nodules. These can become ulcerated or covered in black, crusty exudates. In one review, infiltrative rather than a delineated or encapsulated growth pattern was noted histologically in all cases (as was KIT expression where this was evaluated).
In contrast to the dog and cat, ferret MCT is almost universally benign, and has a good prognosis with surgical removal. Mast cell degranulation with surgical manipulation has not been reported, although ferrets should be pre-treated with antihistamines (diphenhydramine 2 mg/kg, orally, once) before surgery as a safeguard.
111
Cutaneous lymphoma in ferrets
T cell origin, and may be seen on the trunk, feet or
extremities. It may be nodular or ulcerative in appearance; the latter may resemble a burn or other trauma.
Diagnosis is by biopsy.While prolonged survival times (3-4 yrs) if detected early have been noted anecdotally, the best modality of treatment is not known. Chemotherapeutic protocols as for cats with lymphoma have been attempted, but only about 10% of affected ferrets experience remission. The author has treated one ferret topically with the retinoid bexarotene (Targretin® 1% gel; Ligand Pharmaceuticals Inc.) successfully for 6 months. While well tolerated, the drug is very expensive.
112
Less common cutaneous tumors in ferrets
Other skin tumors that have been reported in the ferret are leiomyosarcoma and, rarely, melanoma, chordoma (metastases in the skin).6-8 Interestingly, ferrets do NOT seem to have the predisposition of cats to rabies vaccine-associated sarcomas.
113
Figurate erythema in ferrets
It has been described in a ferret as a clinical sign of adrenal gland disease. However, the author has seen it develop in a ferret after the adrenal glands had been removed. In both the report and the author’s case, the disease resolved concurrent with the administration of an essential fatty supplement.
Erythema multiforme was reported in one ferret.
114
Figurate erythema has been described in a ferret as a clinical sign of ____ disease.
adrenal gland
115
Antibiotics can have direct toxic effects on rodents. For example, _____ and _____ are toxic to mice, hamsters and Gpigs. ______ causes temporary neuropathy in rats. and gerbils do not tolerate _____ and _____.
streptomycin and procaine
nitrofurantoin
streptomycin and dihydrostreptomycin
116
Guinea Pigs and Chinchillas are reported to be more suspected to ototoxicity caused by what two antibiotics?
chloramphenicol and aminoglycosides
117
What products can cause death in rabbits?
Fipronil
Topical and systemic steroids
Flea collars, organophosphate produces, and permethrin sprays.
118
What products can cause death in ferrets?
Topical organophosphates
Dichlorvos - impregnated flea collars
Pesticide dips.
119
What glands are absent in ferrets and rodents?
Sweat glands
120
What species of staphylococcus is frequently isolated from the skin, ears. nostrils and hair coat of rodents and rabbits? Most common opportunistic infection in these species as well.
Staph Aureus
121
What is the Draize test?
The Draize rabbit eye test is an acute toxicity test for assessing the effects of chemicals, substances and mixtures in terms of their potential to cause eye irritancy or damage to the eye. The method was originally designed to assess the effects on eye health of cosmetics (1944 FDA)
122
What are the three species of fleas that affect the ferret?
Ctenocephalides felis,
Ctenocephalides canis
Pulex irritans
**Most produces for treatment that are safe for kittens are safe for ferrets (pyrethrin sprays, imidacloprid,selamecctin, lufenuron and fipronil)
123
What is the common ear mite in ferrets?
Otodectes cynotis
124
Infestation with ____ is rare in ferrets, being more common in areas where ferrets are used for hinting rabbis. What are the two forms of this mite distribution?
Sarcoptes Scabieii
Generalized form
Severe pruritic pododermatitis = foot rot
125
What mite is associated with ulcerative facial lesions in ferrets?
Lynxacrus mustulae
126
What is the most common tick found on ferrets?
Ixodes Ricinus
127
Fly Strike by what parasite can occur in outdoor ferrets and be a problem for Ferret Ranchers?
Wohlfahrtia vigil
128
_____ and ____ are the most common causative agents for dermatophytosis in ferrets.
Microsporum Canis
| Trichophytan metagrophytes
129
What is the cause of "lumpy jaw" usually secondary to damage to oral mucosa of ferrets. The affected animals have nodules or abscesses on the neck which may present as fistula and drainage of thick mucopurulent material.
Actinomycosis
130
What is the only viral disease of ferrets that affects the skin?
Canine Distemper Virus
* *Orange-tinged facial and inguinal dermatitis
* * No treatment but prevent with PureVax
131
What is the prevalence of adrenal associated endocinopathies in ferrets?
7%
Hyperplasia (56%) ; adenoma (16%); adenocarcinoma (26%)
132
Adrenal gland disease in ferrets results in excessive production of _____.
Sex Hormones
NOT cortisol
Most affected ferrets on unilateral disease with 80% left side only.
133
Adrenal gland disease in Ferrets commonly reveal an elevated level of what on a chemistry panel?
ALT
The only way to confirm disease is with surgery and biopsy. Stimulation tests are not helpful because the concern is NOT cortisol levels.
134
What is the treatment of choice for adrenal disease in ferrets?
Adrenalectomy is the treatment of choice because it is curative for most cases and also allows visualization of other potentially diseased organs. The left adrenal gland is easier to remove; the right is next to the vena cava. With bilateral disease, complete removal of the left and partial of the right resolves in clinical improvement.
135
What is the most commonly used DRUG of choice for adrenal disease in ferrets?
Lupron (leuprolide acetate) - long-acting GnRH agonist
136
_____ and ____ are NOT effective in the treatment of adrenal disease in ferrets.
Mitotane and ketoconazole
137
Intact female ferrets with ovarian remnants may display ____ and ____. Similar to a ferret with adrenal disease. This is due to elevated levels of what hormone?
vulvar swelling and alopecia
estrogen
** This is diagnosed with response to hCG, GnRH treatment and sex hormone panel which shows an elevation only in ESTRODIOL.
138
What are the three most common cutaneous neoplasms found in ferrets?
MCT
Basal Cell Tumor
Sebaceous cell tumors
139
What type of tumor is common in ferrets? They usually present as round, smooth, firm masses on the tail with other locations described including the cervical vertebra, thoracic vertebra) They are slow growing, but metastasis can occur. Complete removal (tail amputation is curative).
Chordomas
140
Deficiency in what nutrient in ferrets can lead to bilaterally symmetric alopecia, hyperkeratosis and achromotrichia in ferrets?
Biotin deficiency - excessive feeding of raw eggs
141
Severe intestinal parasitism in ferrets with awhat organism can produce variable degrees of hair loss and scaling?
Toxascaris leonine
142
What is the "blue ferret syndrome"?
This is a rare idiopathic skin condition most commonly seen when ferrets are clipped for surgery or intravenous access during the resting phase of the hair cycle. the clipped area remains hairless for a long period of time, then suddenly becomes blue. Theories suggest that this is due to melanin production by the hair follicle.
143
What is the 'rabbit flea' species?
Spilopsylus cuniculi (usually found on ears and face)
144
What is the 'common eastern rabbit flea'?
Cediopsylla simplex
145
What is the 'giant eastern rabbit flea'?
Odontopsyllus multisponsus
146
"stick tight" flea in rabbits is called?
echidnophaga gallinacean and Hoplopsyllus
147
Infestations of S. cuniculi (rabbit flea) are also common in rabbit colonies. Outbreaks are more common in ____ and young rabbits, since the life cycle is controlled by the hormonal cycle of the host.
pregnant
148
What flea species is an important vector for myxomatosis?
S. cuniculi
149
What is a non-burrowing ear mite that is the most common ectoparasite of the rabbit? The life cycle is complete in less than 3 weeks aunt eh mites can survive off the host for up to 3 weeks. It is transmitted by direct contact with infected rabbits, fomites and contaminated environment.
P. cuniculi - 'bell shaped sucker'
150
Rabbits are susceptible to what ectoparasite from cattle and sheep?
Psorptes Ovis
151
What is another non-burrowing Cheyletiella mite that affects the rabbit? The eggs adhere to the fur shaft similar to louse nits. Many of the infestations are subclinical. In severe cases, the mites are visible to the eye.
Cheyletiella parasitovorax
Zoonotic and treat with ivermectin
152
What is a non-burrowing fur mite first described in wild Oryctolagus app rabbits in Europe and down to infest wild and domestic rabbis around the world.
Leporacarus (Listrophorus) gibbous
153
Why does complete resolution of the clinical signs in a scabies rabbit infection take longer than expect to resolve?
Complete resolution of clinical signs takes longer than expected because fecal mite antigens, considered the inducer of skin lesions in cases of sarcastic mange, will remain on the skin long after the mites have died.
Treat with ivermectin or doramectin
**external genitalia in rabbits
154
What Demodex mite is rarely found in rabbits and there are no clinical signs associated with overgrowth?
Demodex cunniculi
155
What is the species of tropical rat mite that has been described in lab and pet colonies of rabbis?
Ornithonyssus bacoti
156
What is the harvest mite that can affect outdoor rabbits and cause intense pruritus and macula and prattle formation. The treatment is difficult but the disease is seasonal and self-limiting.
Trombicula Autumnalis
157
What can produce myiasis in domestic rabbits house outdoors or in non-screened enclosures. It is usually higher in the late summer and early Fall but present all year round in warmer climates.
Cuterebra flies
158
What is the most common "flesh laying fly" in rabbits?
Wohlfahrtia
In the UK, it is the greenbottle fly (Lucilia spp.)
159
Black flies of the _____ family can bite rabbits in areas of sparse hair (lips, ears, and nares). These bites are painful and can result in inflammation and disease transmission (myxomatosis).
Simuliidae family
160
What is the most common tick to affect the continental rabbit?
Haemaphysalis leporis-palustris
**Treat with ivermectins
161
Infestation by the sucking louse _____ are rare in pet rabbits but common wild lagomorphs in Europe.
Haemodipsus ventricosus
162
Severe infestation with host-specific rabbit pinworm _____ can result in perianal pruritus, self-trauma and even rectal prolapse.
Pasalurus ambiguious
163
What is the most common dermatophyte found on rabbits?
Trichophytan mentagrophytes
164
An indirect ELISA has been developed for the early diagnosis of what disease in rabbits?
Dermatophytosis
165
What is a ubiquitous saprophyte with the potential of causing skin lesions in animals and humans?
Scopulariopsis brevicaulis
166
What two breeds of rabbits are more prone to developing ulcerative pododermatitis?
Angora and Rex Rabbits
** S. aureus most commonly infects these lesions
167
Where does moist dermatitis in a rabbit commonly develop?
face, dewlap or perineal region
168
Rabbit syphilis, also called venereal spirochetosis or "vent disease" is called by _______ organism.
Treponema cuniculi
no zoonotic
169
What causes can induce clinical signs in subclinical carriers of rabbit syphillis?
Over crowding, poor sanitation and other stress factors
170
Rabbit Syphillis has a long incubation period, with lesions developing _____ weeks after exposure and positive serologic titers occurring _____ weeks positive infection.
3-6
| 8-12
171
A presumptive diagnosis of treponematosis can be made from response to treatment, which involved the use of injectable ______.
penicillin
**Chloramphenicol is also a treatment
172
Necrobacillosis, or Schmorl disease, is a sporadic bacterial infection of rabbits cause by what organism?
Fusobacterium necrophorum (GI bacteria in feces)
Treat with AIPMMA beads and penicillin
173
How long does it take for cystic mastitis to resolve in a rabbit after OVH?
3-4 weeks
174
What common disease in rabbits is a myxoma virus of the poxvirus family. This disease occurs all over the world. Transmission occurs primarily through insect bites, but can also occur by direct contact of mechanical vectors.
Myxomatosis
**Clinical myxomatosis is rare in European hairs
175
In the ____ species, myxomatosis manifests as benign skin tumors at the site of viral entry (most often case of one or both ears). Masses appear 4 to 8 days after exposure and persisting for a month.
Sylvilagus
176
In Myxomatosis, which virus strain is very virulent, resulting in peracute disease and mortality rates of up to 100% within 1 week of exposure?
California virus strain
177
What virus is antigenically related to the myxomatosis virus. The natural host is the Eastern cottontail, and the virus is transmissible to both the easter contain and European rabbits. Other species of Sylvilagus are considered refractory to the virus.
Shope Fibroma Virus
**subcutaenous nodules along the legs, feet, perineal region ear, muzzle and around eyes.
178
What virus is also known as the cottontail papillomavirus, an oncogenic virus of the Papovaviridae family. The virus is distinct from the rabbit oral papilloma-virus, which causes tongue and oral mucosa papillomas in domestic rabbits.
Shope Papilloma virus
** Cotton tails are the natural host and is transmitted by biting arthropods (Tick is likely main vector); neck and shoulders are affected
This is different than Rabbit Pox which is a fatal infection.
179
What is the most common nonviral epithelial tumor reported in rabbits?
trichoblastoma
180
Rabbits on ___ diets can develop fur chewing.
low-fiber
181
What is "hutch burn"?
This is a contact dermatitis caused by urine scalding of the perineal region due to poor husbandry or an inability of the rabbit to void urine without soiling, as seen in obese rabbits or rabbits with orthopedic/neurologic problems.
182
Dermal fibrosis, characterized by cutaneous thickening on the dorsal with no associated pruritus or alopecia has bee described in _____ rabbits.
intact male rabbits
183
Mammary gland dysplasia in rabbits has been reported secondary to ______.
pituitary adenomas
184
What is the burrowing sarcastic mite of the guinea pig?
Trixacarus caviae
Infestations results intense pruritus that can progress to self-mutilitation agitation and even seizures in extreme cases. Skin scrapings are usually negative - even in extreme cases. Treatment with ivermectin SQ or topical selecmectin are effective. Oral is ineffective.
185
What is the name of the guinea pig fur mite?
Chirodiscoides caviae
Clinical disease is rare. Usually localized to the flanks and perineum.
186
What is the name of the Guinea Pig demodex mite?
Demodex Caviae
187
What are the two species of 'biting louse' in the guinea pig?
```
Gliricola porcelli (slender guinea pig louse) - more common
Gyropus ovalis (oval guinea pig louse)
```
They are usually asymptomatic. Diagnosis is visualizing lice on hair shaft and treatment is with injectable ivermectin or pyrethrins. Oral ivermectin not effective.
188
What are the two species of 'sucking louse' in the guinea pig?
Trimpenopen jenningsi
Trimenopen hispidum are sucking lice rarely reported in guinea pigs. Diagnosis and treatment are descried for more common lice.
189
Dermatophytosis in the Guinea pigs is relatively common and commonly caused by _______.
T.mentagrophytes, with Microsporum app and T. verrucosum, being rare.
Lesions typically occur around the nose, eyes and pinna, ut may spread to the dorsal and down the limbs.
Topical anti fungal treatments are effete.
190
Other fungal pathogens of guinea pigs include Malassezia ____ and C.albicans, Bothe of which have been studied using guinea pigs as experimental models.
Ovale
Grisevulvin was not effective
191
What is the most common microorganisms isolated from guinea pig cervical lymphadenitis?
Streptococcus zooepidemicus (Yersina pseudo tuberculosis and Streptobacillus moniliformis have also been isolated.
192
What is the most common microorganisms isolated from guinea pig abscesses?
Staphylococcus aureus
193
Chelitis in Guinea pigs has been associated with what virus?
Poxvirus
194
What is the most common cutaneous neoplasm in guinea pigs?
trichofolliculoma - a benign basal cell epithelium that primary occurs over the lumbar areas.
195
Guinea pigs lack what enzyme necessary for synthesis of ascorbic acid or vitamin C, and therefore must be provided with a course in feed and/or supplement?
L-gluconolactone oxidase enzyme
Vitamin C is required for collagen synthesis, and integument signs of deficit my include cutaneous hemorrhage, delayed wound healing and rough hair coat.
Commerical guinea pig feeds contain vitamin C - it is important to note that it degrades after 90 days.
196
What deficiency causes a desiccation of the edges of the guinea pig pinna?
vitamin A
FA, protein and pyridoxine will cause general alopecia.
197
What will cause bilateral symmetric alopecia, usually over the flank and back in intact female guinea its commonly between 2 - 4 years of age?
Ovarian cysts
** treat by aspirating cysts or using HCG injections
198
What is the disease "slobbers" in guinea pigs?
condition of excessive drooling usually due to underlying dental disease.
199
Ectoparasites in Chinchillas are uncommon due to their dense fur coat; however, ____ and ___ have been reported.
fleas and Cheyletiella
Treat with products approve for kitten flea
Ivermectin injections works for Cheyletiella
200
Dermatophytosis is rare in the chinchillas. The most common isolate is _______.
T. metagrophytes
Treatment with oral griseofulvin has been shown effective in generalized cases and topically.
201
A condition referred to as "cotton fur" has been described in chinchillas fed a high ______ diet.
Protein
202
Diets deficient in choline, methionine or vitamin E can cause what type of abnormalities to the ears, perineal area and ventral abdomen of chinchillas??
yellow discoloration due to defects in metabolizing plant pigments
203
Fur chewing is a heritable behavior trait in chinchillas that occurs in approximately ___% of chinchillas.
30
204
What is a "fur ring" in chinchillas?
This occurs when fur wraps around the prepuce. Left untreated, a fur ring can causes paraphimosis. The penis should be lubricated and the fur ring gently loosened or cut free.
205
In rats, what sarcoptic mite causes thick crusting and papular dermatitis, especially around the ears, nose and tail. Pruritus can be intense and lead to excoriations from self-trauma.
N. muris
Treatment is by bathing with 0.05% pyrethrin shampoo, dusting with pyrethrin powder or applying 2% lime sulfur dup to the affected areas with a swab. Subcutaneous ivermectin infections 2 weeks apart ay also be effective.
206
What is the name of the fur mite in rats?
Radfordia ensifera
Lesions are usually around the head and shoulders from self-trauma.
207
What is the tropical rat mite that barely effects pet rats?
Liponyssus bacoti
208
What is a sucking louse rarely encountered in rats. Infestations most often localize around the back and can cause pruritus, dermatitis or dermal ulceration.
Polypax Spinulosa
209
Polypax Spinulosa can serve as a vector of what two diseases in rats?
typhus and hemobartonellosis
210
What organism is the common cause of ulcerative dermatitis in rats?
Staphylococcus aureus
211
What organism causes edema and cyanosis of the extremities in rats?
Strep. moniliformis
212
What organisms causes cutaneous pyogranulomas and secondary sloughy of an extremity in rats?
Corynebacterium kutscheri
213
Sialodacryoadenitis, cause by what virus leads to red teams and staining of the paws and face, as well as self-trauma from irritating nature of the porphyrins in rats?
Coronavirus
214
What is the most common tumor found in rats out in practice?
Fibroadenomas
215
Ringtail or avascular necrosis of the tail most commonly present in rats how old?
7 to 15 days old, during the winter months when the ambient humidity drops under 20% because of heating systems. Dehydration, essential fatty acid deficiencies and elevated temperature have been implicated along with low humidity.
216
What is the species of Pinworms in rats that are essentially nonpathogenic; however, perianal pruritus associated with egg burdens may cause animals to self-mutilate the base of the tail?
Syphacia muris
Treat with ivermectin injections
217
Auricular chondrites has been described in what two breeds of rats. The pinna become nodular, and histologic analysis of the lesions reveals inflammatory focus and chondrolysis. The cause is unknown.
Described in Sprague-Dawley and Winstar rats
218
What species of Demodex has been reported in gerbils, most commonly in older and debilitated animals.
Demodex merioni
219
What is the 'house mite' rarely affecting caged gerbils but affects the house mouse. This mite can bite humans and transmit Rickettsia askari.
Liponyssoides sanguineus
220
What gland on the gerbil is frequently affected with neoplastic processes (adenomas, SCC)?
ventral scent gland
Melanomas and melanocytomas of the paws, ears and tail base are also common.
221
What causes sore nose or facial eczema in Gerbils?
This is caused by an increased porphyrin secretions from the harderian gland in response to stressors such as overcrowding and high humidity. The poryphorin act as an irritant, accumulating around the nose and eyes.
222
Acariasis is frequent in hamsters. What are the two demodex mites that affect hamsters?
D. aurati - respinsiblefor most clinical infections and is frequently associated with immunosuppressive disorders such as concurrent neoplasia, hypercoritsolism, CKD, nutritional or environmental stress or simple advanced age. IT lives in follicles and sebaceous gland canals.
D. Criceti is shorter and inhabits epidermal pits. infestation may be more common in male hamsters.
Amatraz or selecectin for treatment.
223
What are the two narrowing mites that are rare causes of intense pruritus, self-mutilation and alopecia in hamsters?
Noteoedres notoedres and N. cati
224
Cutaneous epitheliomas are cause by what virus in hamsters?
polyomavirus - lesions appear around the face and perineum
225
What is the most common neoplasm in hamsters?
melanomas
* and mammary adenocarcinomas
226
What is the most common ectoparasite in mice?
Myocoptes musculinus
Head, neck and shoulders are the most common areas affected. Treat with injectable ivermectin.
227
What is the common fur mite in mice?
Radfordia affinis
228
What is an occasional follicular mite that can cause self-trauma and alopecia in mice. White nodules or comedones are often noted, consisting of mites and debris?
Psorergate simplex
229
Fleas are rarely found on mice - they can be vectors for what two diseases?
Yersinia pestis and Rickettsia typhus
230
What is the sucking louse of mice?
Polypax serrata
231
Mouse pox, aka ectromelia, is caused by what virus that occasionally affects laboratory mice?
orthopoxvirus
232
What virus is a common cause of eye rubbing and chromodacryorrhea in mice?
Sialodacryoadenitis virus (coronavirus)
233
What are the two most common tumors reported in mice?
SCC and adenocarcinoma (mammary tissue)
234
What is the mouse pinworm?
Syphacia obvelata
235
What is the hedge hog demodex mite?
Demodex erinacei
236
Mites are very common, and infections should be suspected in any hedgehog presenting with pruritus, flaky skin and loss of skins. _____ is more common in pet animals, whereas _____ may occur more commonly in wild animals. Choriopes mites may also be implicated.
Caparinia tripolis
| Caparinia erinacei
237
What is the name of the hedge hog flea?
Archaeopsylla erinacei.
238
What are the two species of ticks found on hedge hogs?
Ixodes hexagons
| Ixodes ricinus
239
What are the three most common neoplasia found on hedge hods?
SCC
lymphosarcoma
sebaceous gland carcinomas
240
Overall poor spine quality can be due to several conditions including ______, or excessive levels of vitamin A or D.
hyperparathyroidism
241
What is the host specific sucking louse found on Prairie dogs?
Linognathus cynomys
242
_____ is common in sugar gliders, especially the tail, scrotum, feet and surgical sites.
self-mutilation
243
Chromatophores
Pigment-containing and light-reflecting cells found in amphibians, fish, reptiles, crustaceans, and cephalopods
Largely responsible for generating skin and eye colour in cold-blooded animals
Generated in the neural crest during embryonic development
Grouped into subclasses based on their colour (more properly "hue") under white light:
• xanthophores (yellow)
• erythrophores (red)
• iridophores (reflective / iridescent)
• leucophores (white)
• melanophores (black/brown)
• cyanophores (blue
Can also refer to coloured, membrane associated vesicles found in some forms of photosynthetic bacteria.
Some species can rapidly change colour through mechanisms that translocate pigment and reorient reflective plates within chromatophores
type of camouflage physiological colour change
Cephalopods such as octopus have complex chromatophore organs controlled by muscles to achieve this, while vertebrates such as chameleons generate a similar effect by cell signaling
Hormones or neurotransmitters and may be initiated by changes in mood, temperature, stress or visible changes in local environment.
