Lice

The sucking louse Haemodipsus ventricosus can affect domestic rabbits, and it usually found in breeding establishments, especially if husbandry standards are poor. It is a large louse 1.5-2.5 mm in length. Lice are known to be vectors for tularaemia and commonly affects wild rabbits. There is discussion whether or not lice can act as a mechanical vector for myxomatosis.

The entire life cycle of the louse takes 2-3 weeks depending on environment conditions.

Symptoms
Rabbit lice are commonly located down the spine, on the rump area and down the sides of the rabbit.

Clinical signs include the following:
 * intense scratching and irritation
 * thinning of the fur
 * bald patches

In very young rabbits, anaemia may also present in advanced infestations.

Treatment
Avermectins are an effective treatment for lice on rabbits. Ivermectin injections are the treatment of choice, again at 7-10 day intervals for 3-5 treatments. Imidacloprid may also be used.