Thor visited our Llanelli branch for his castration, when our eagle eyed Nurse spotted something on his fur.
After investigating with a microscope a fur mite was identified.
Fur mites are quite a common cause of skin conditions in rabbit. They often cause itchiness, loss of fur and can lead to skin infections.
Diagnosis is made by taking a tape strip sample and examining under a microscope. This particular type of mite is a non-burrowing mite called Leporacarus Gibbus. They are very difficult to see with the naked eye. As you can see from the picture below, they look like very small brown flecks which could be mistaken for dirt.
Treatment is provided by spot-on medication on the skin and disinfecting the housing environment. It is important to maintain good hygiene and husbandry in order to prevent mite infestations.