Mites in rabbits are a fairly common but uncomfortable condition that can lead to itching, hair loss, skin damage, and secondary infections if left untreated. Depending on the type of mite, they can affect different parts of the body like the ears, skin, or fur.
🐰 Common Types of Mites in Rabbits
| Mite Type | Scientific Name | Symptoms | Where They Occur |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ear mites | Psoroptes cuniculi | Head shaking, crusty discharge in ears, scratching | Inside ears |
| Fur mites (walking dandruff) | Cheyletiella parasitovorax | Dandruff-like flakes, itching, hair loss | Back, shoulders, neck |
| Burrowing mites (mange) | Sarcoptes scabiei | Severe itching, crusty skin, hair loss, redness | Face, legs, genitals |
| Demodex mites | Demodex cuniculi (rare) | Patchy hair loss, usually non-itchy | Around eyes or face |
🔍 Signs of Mite Infestation
Scratching or shaking the head
Dandruff or flaky skin
Bald spots or hair thinning
Thick crusts inside ears (ear mites)
Red, inflamed, or scabby skin
Restlessness or irritability
🩺 Diagnosis
A rabbit-savvy vet will often:
Perform a skin scraping or tape test for microscopic examination
Examine the ears with an otoscope
Possibly test for secondary infections (e.g., bacteria or yeast)
💊 Treatment
Prescription antiparasitic medications:
Ivermectin (oral or injectable)
Selamectin (Revolution) applied topically
Ear cleaning (for ear mites—never use Q-tips deep in the ear)
Anti-inflammatory or antibiotic creams for secondary infections
Environmental cleaning: wash bedding, vacuum area thoroughly
Treat all pets in contact—even if asymptomatic
⚠️ Over-the-counter or pet-store mite treatments are often ineffective or unsafe for rabbits.
✅ Prevention Tips
Keep living area clean and dry
Avoid contact with wild rabbits or unclean environments
Regular grooming and skin checks
Quarantine new rabbits before introducing them to others
Would you like help identifying the type of mites your rabbit might have or guidance on safe cleaning products for their enclosure?
