Worms

Parasitic Worm Infections in Rabbits

Passalurus ambiguus (Pinworm)

Etiology (cause)

Passalurus ambiguus is the most common nematode in domestic rabbits. Transmission occurs via ingestion of infective eggs shed in feces.

DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2006.03.005

Clinical Signs

- Often asymptomatic in light infections - Heavy infections: perianal irritation, scratching, reduced growth rates, occasionally diarrhea

Treatment, Prevention, and Control

- Fenbendazole (20 mg/kg orally for 5 days) is effective - Pyrantel pamoate is an alternative treatment - Strict cage hygiene and removal of fecal material to reduce reinfection

Reference: Boag, B. & Thomas, R. (2006). The life cycle and transmission of Passalurus ambiguus in rabbits. *Veterinary Parasitology*, 137(3–4), 347–353. DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2006.03.005

Trichostrongylus spp. (Stomach Worms)

Etiology (cause)

Trichostrongylus species infect the stomach and small intestine. Rabbits become infected through ingestion of larvae from contaminated food or bedding.

DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2004.10.014

Clinical Signs

- Weight loss - Poor coat quality - Diarrhea in heavy infections - Reduced feed conversion

Treatment, Prevention, and Control

- Fenbendazole and albendazole are effective against gastrointestinal nematodes - Pasture management and avoiding contaminated feed reduces risk

Reference: Rommel, M. et al. (2004). Gastrointestinal helminths in rabbits: epidemiology and control. *Veterinary Parasitology*, 123(1–2), 145–159. DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2004.10.014

Obeliscoides cuniculi (Stomach Worm)

Etiology (cause)

Obeliscoides cuniculi inhabits the stomach mucosa of rabbits. Infection occurs via ingestion of larvae in contaminated forage.

DOI: 10.1016/0304-4017(84)90117-2

Clinical Signs

- Gastritis - Anorexia - Weight loss - Poor body condition

Treatment, Prevention, and Control

- Benzimidazoles (fenbendazole, albendazole) are effective - Prevent by limiting access to contaminated pastures

Reference: Boag, B. (1984). Helminth parasites of wild rabbits in Scotland. *Veterinary Parasitology*, 15(2), 121–127. DOI: 10.1016/0304-4017(84)90117-2

Cestodes (Tapeworms: Cittotaenia spp.)

Etiology (cause)

Cittotaenia spp. infect the small intestine of rabbits. Transmission occurs when rabbits ingest oribatid mites carrying larval stages.

DOI: 10.1016/S0304-4017(01)00394-8

Clinical Signs

- Usually subclinical - Heavy burdens: weight loss, digestive upset, diarrhea

Treatment, Prevention, and Control

- Praziquantel is effective against cestodes - Prevent by avoiding access to mite-contaminated pastures

Reference: Eira, C. et al. (2001). The prevalence of cestodes in wild and domestic rabbits in Portugal. *Veterinary Parasitology*, 96(4), 227–234. DOI: 10.1016/S0304-4017(01)00394-8