IVERMECTIN TREATMENT FOR

SARCOPTIC MANGE MITES IN CAVIES

By Vicki Palmer-Nielsen
Excerpts from UMCBA Newsletter Winter 1991-1992
Reprinted from ACBA 1996 Guide Book

Mites may be picked up from the judging table or from infested animals.  It is not shameful to discover that your cavy has bugs, but, it is shameful if you don't  do something about it.  Signs of mites are dry wrinkled scaly skin, dandruff, excessive scratching sometimes leading to open, bloody sores, and even seizures if left untreated long enough.  Sarcoptic mite infestation is sometimes misdiagnosed as ringworm or a fungus problem.  The mite burrows down into the skin (laying eggs) and so often does not show up on the skin scraping vets usually do to determine what the problem is.

The solution is IVERMECTIN - given orally.  Bug Sprays, Shampoos, and dips generally won't do it once the symptoms start showing up.  Listed below is a method you can use:

As suggested by Dr. Carol Allen, Kennedy Park Animal Hospital, Tucson, AZ. - you will need:

1. Ivermectin (cattle) injectable - can be purchased from vets by the bottle or in smaller amounts.  Feed Mills may supply or it may be ordered from Omaha Vaccine 1-800-367-4444 , for about $27.  Keep Refrigerated.
2. Propylene Glycol - can be purchased from the drug store for about $5 per pint, or from some animal supply stores.
3. 1CC syringes (needleless)

INSTRUCTIONS & DOSES:  Mix 1 part IVERMECTIN with 9 parts PROPYLENE GLYCOL.

Mix well and give orally as follows:

Second Dose is given in 2 weeks.  Third Dose in additional 2 weeks.
Minimum age for treatment - 4 weeks (must be weaned).
Nursing sows should not be treated.