Treatment and Control of Trixacarus Caviae Infestation in a Conventional Guinea Pig (Cavia Porcellus) Breeding Colony

In July 2013, a case of sarcoptic mange caused by Trixacarus caviae was reported in a conventional guinea pig breeding colony, affecting 30 breeder guinea pigs. The severely infested animals were treated with three doses of subcutaneous ivermectin injections (400 µg/kg body weight) 10 days apart, which successfully eliminated the parasite, as confirmed by negative tests after 30 days of the initial treatment. Additionally, the entire colony received a preventive dose of ivermectin spray following the same schedule, and strict hygienic measures were implemented. By the 30th day of treatment, new hair growth was observed in the severely affected animals.