Let's face it: we all hate bugs, especially those we cannot easily see. Rabbits agree with us on this one. As with any illness or issue, it is best to understand what's going on so that you can quickly diagnose and resolve the issue.
What is it? Mites are external parasites which are so small, you will see the signs of their presence before you see them. The two most common types are Cheyletiella parasitivorax and Listrophorus gibbus. Because of the way their bodies work, they breath through their "skin", a fact that will help us during treatment. Mites will migrate towards the warmest areas on your rabbit, meaning that you typically will find them either behind the ears on the back of their necks, or in their inner ear. Since you won't be able to see the mites, you will need to be on the lookout for what they will do to your rabbit. An infected area will have missing and/or patchy fur (if the mites are in a typically furry area). Also, you will see a dandruff on your rabbit's skin, which is caused by the mites. Depending on how long the mites have been on your rabbit, you may see some sores near the infected area. These most likely have been caused by your rabbit scratching at these annoying pests.
These rabbits have been been infected with mites:
Although finding mites on your rabbits isn't the worse thing that could happen, you will want to quickly deal with them, if for no other reason than the comfort of your rabbit.
How can they get it? An outdoor rabbit is much more likely to come in contact with mites. Even an indoor rabbit who gets to hop around in the great outdoors can pick them up. Other domestic animals that spend time outside, like a dog, may also bring mites inside to a rabbit. Unlike other parasites, mites do not appear because of unsanitary conditions. No matter how clean you keep their hutch, a rabbit is still susceptible.
Is it treatable? Mites are absolutely treatable. I use mineral oil which is available at any grocery or drug store. Apply a generous amount of mineral oil on the infected area with a Q-Tip. Let the mineral oil sit for a few minutes- feel free to take this time to give your rabbit a good petting to keep them calm. Next, wipe the mineral oil off with a Q-Tip or rag. Repeat this two or three more times. Finally, wipe the area off with a little bit of water. Since the mites breath through their "skin", applying the mineral oil will essentially drown the mites, killing them. I would apply the same regiment again in a few days, and then in another few days after that.
Is it preventable? Unfortunately, not really. As I said earlier, mites are not attracted to unsanitary conditions. For outdoor rabbits, try to keep trees and brush cleared away from the hutch. For any rabbit that hops around outside, try to keep them away from bushes or under decks. The best thing you can do is catch the mites early, frequently checking behind and inside their ears.
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| Check down in the base of the ear. |
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| Push the ears towards your rabbit's head to see behind the ears. |
I'd love to hear about your experiences with your rabbit and mites. Do you have a home remedy that worked?
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