Ringworm

Species that can cause ringworm, also known as dermatophytosis, on rabbits include Microsporum canis, Microsporum gypseum, Microsporum audouinii, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Trichophyton verrucosum and Trichophyton schoenleinii. Trichophyton mentagrophytes is more commonly seen in laboratory and outdoor rabbits while M. canis is more usually seen in pet and house rabbits.

Ringworm is most commonly seen on young rabbits, especially where husbandry is suboptimal, in addition to any underlying medical conditions which may strain the rabbit's immune system. It is uncommon in rabbits, but ringworm can be zoonotic, and asymptotic infections have been reported with humans.^:250

Symptoms

A rabbit with a patch of missing fur on the cheek from ringworm (confirmed by test). Used with permission from WickAndFable.

A rabbit with healthy skin recovering from ringworm, which had started at the mouth and spread around the neck over time. Used with permission from WickAndFable.

• circular and crusty areas with fur loss (alopecia) and redness (erythema). These areas are usually found on areas that are frequently groomed, like the base of the ears and muzzle, but can spread to other parts of the body.^:298

Causes

Ringworm has been associated with underlying stressors such as concurrent disease, poor nutrition, or experimental manipulation.^:299

Treatment

Ringworm can be treated with giseofulvin orally or topical miconazole, clotrimazole or enilconazole.^:299

Concurrent administration with cisapride should be avoided, as there is potential for adverse drug interactions to occur.^:299

Experiences

• Wick & Fable. (2017). (Update!) Fungal/Ringworm Tx (no actual worms involved)

Further reading

• Frances Harcourt-Brown, Ringworm
• PetEducation.com, Ringworm in Rabbits and Guinea Pigs: Transmission, Signs, Diagnosis, Treatment
• MediRabbit.com, Fungal Dermatitis or Superficial Mycosis
• The Bunny Hut, Ringworm in Rabbits. (2016).
• Vetstream, Ringworm

See also

• Fleas
• Lice
• Mites