Case series: Efficacy of a formulation containing selamectin and sarolaner against naturally acquired mite infestations (Demodex sp., Ornithonyssus bacoti) in degus (Octodon degus)

Abstract

Ectoparasite infestations are not common in degus. Two cases are presented here where use of Stronghold® Plus/Revolution® Plus (selamectin and sarolaner topical solution) was successfully administered to a degu (Octodon degus) for treatment of naturally-occurring mite infesations. Selamectin (Stronghold®/Revolution®) has been demonstrated to be effective against naturally-occurring mite infections in dogs and selamectin is approved for use in dogs for the treatment of sarcoptic mange (caused by Sarcoptes scabiei) at a dose of 6 mg/kg. In the first case, a 2.6-years-old female degu housed in a group with four other degus was presented with pruritic skin reactions, restlessness and hairloss. Mites morphologically similar to Demodex sp. were detected in the deep skin scrapings. All four degus were treated with Stronghold® Plus/Revolution® Plus (30 mg/kg selamectin and 5 mg/kg sarolaner) once a week for a total of six treatments. The spot-on was administered topically on the dorsal cervical region. Following treatment the degu presenting with clinical signs showed a rapid improvement with the pruritus and overall dermatitis resolving within 2 weeks of treatment. Skin scrapes and microscopic examination of epidermal debris collected from the affected degu were negative for mites from day 14 onwards. In the second case, a group of four 4–6.5-years-old female and male degus that were housed together were infested with Ornithonyssus bacoti. All animals were treated with 30 mg/kg selamectin and 5 mg/kg sarolaner in four total weekly doses. One week later no living mites were found on the patients or in their environment. The four degus improved visibly, and within three weeks of treatment the skin lesions associated with the infestation subsided. The antiparasiticides showed a satisfactory efficacy and were well tolerated (n = 9 animals treated in a total).