Fur mites on my netherland

[bunelo]

Hello everyone! I am new to this site and hope to learn much from all of you seasoned rabbit owners and breeders.

A few days ago, I noticed my one year old bun was developing a bald spot on his head, right between his eyes. Long story short, I found out he has Cheyletiella fur mites. Since his diagnosis, I have purchased this (http://www.revivalanimal.com/product/generic-ivomec-1-injection/cat-supplies) bottle of generic ivomec 1% injection. It is currently in transit to my house but I’m wondering if there’s anything I can do for him in the mean time to help soothe his skin, contain the infection, etc. 

Secondly, I was wondering if the ivomec I purchased 100% HAS to be injected. If possible, I’d like to apply it directly to his fur or give it to him orally. Either way, I would appreciate any tips on administrating the medicine. 

Thank you in advance for the advice!

[LittlePuffyTail]

I’m not an expert but I would not use this. There are certain flea/parasite things that are safe for cats that can kill rabbits. The best (and completely safe) option is to ring a vet and get some Revolution which is topical. Your vet may even measure out the exact dosage you need for your bunny’s weight.

[Bam]

LPT is correct about certain antiparasitics being lethal to rabbits, especially Fipronil. So we always warn against the use of Fipronil.

Ivomec is ivermectin though, and that is one of the bunny safe antiparasitics. We can’t tell you to use it, we are not vets. The best thing is to see a vet and get a prescription for revolution (selamectin, a compound derived from ivermectin).

Here is a chart of safe antiparasitics, from Medirabbit, a trusted source: http://www.medirabbit.com/Safe_medication/Anti_parasitics/safe_antiparasitic.htm

For ivermectin it says it can be given subcutaneously (injection under skin) or per oral (by mouth).The correct dosage is important, so do the maths very carefully. 

I googled around a bit and found mentions of it being just as effective if you drip a couple of drops (for a Nethie I’d restrict it to one drop) on the skin between the shoulderblades, but I found no really good, trusted source to confirm that, just anecdotal evidence from bunny owners. 

You could ask on other forums as well f ex Rabbits Online. They have a health and wellness sectrion where there’s a whole thread about risks with ivermectin overdose. You might be able to find more useful info there and bun owners who have used generic ivomec themselves. http://www.rabbitsonline.net/index.php

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