Camelids, like cattle, horses, pigs and many other species are susceptible to mite infestation. Recent cases of Chorioptes sp and Psoroptes sp infection have been diagnosed.
Affected animals presented with lesions on the axilla (armpit), forefoot (around coronet and interdigital space) and mid to lower rear legs. However lesions can be seen in ventral abdomen, face and ears.
The symptoms can vary from none to moderate to severe pruritus (itching). Lesions present as hair loss, skin swelling, scaling and crusting and depending on level of infection, some animals may lose weight.
Cases reported worldwide indicate affected animals may not show any symptoms. Hence, if an animal in a group is diagnosed as having mites, it is recommended to treat all members of the group, as non-symptomatic animals may function as carriers of the parasite and act as a source of re-infection.
Good control can be achieved with appropriate treatments but in some cases total eradication may be difficult. Please contact Totally Vets with any questions or for advice on treating this problem.
