Infestação por ácaros da espécie Chirodiscoides caviae em porquinho-da-Índia (Cavia porcellus)

Abstract

The guinea pig is an animal belonging to the order Rodentia, family Caviidae and species Cavia porcellus. They are used as laboratory animals and have also been bred as pets. Due to their size and easy adaptation, they have been gaining more space in Brazilian homes. However, some pathogenic agents, such as endoparasites and ectoparasites, can affect them, altering their health and well-being. The goal of this work was to report the occurrence of mites of the species Chirodiscoides caviae in Cavia porcellus domiciled in the city Teresina-PI. A female guinea pig, weighing 864 g, was admitted to a veterinary clinic in Teresina, where alopecic areas were observed in a large part of the animal's body. The owner reported signs of itching, anorexia and weight loss. After the physical examination and performing the adhesive tape technique, the presence of mites of the species Chirodiscoides caviae with its different evolutionary forms was confirmed. The recommended the therapy was selamectin 15 mg/kg, topical use, in a single dose, with repetition 15 days after the treatment, noting an improvement in the animal's clinical condition, with hair growth and weight gain. It is concluded that the adhesive tape technique can be used in cases of scabies by Chirodiscoides caviae in guinea pigs with satisfactory results, optimizing the diagnosis and treatment in these animals.