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Fur Mites

March 12, 2018

Fur mites, or “walking dandruff,” affect mainly rabbits, but also guinea pigs, hedgehogs, rodents, cats, and dogs. Although an uncommon host for the mite, these mites can also be transmitted to humans. The mites are nonburrowing skin parasites which cause the skin to become scaly. On close observation of an infested pet, movement of the dandruff is visible because the mites are moving underneath the scales. There are different species of fur mites that cross over and infest all pets and others that are specific to certain animals.rabbit

Mites are transmitted by direct contact with the host, animal bedding, or hair and debris. Therefore, it is important to clean and treat the environment while treating the animal. Treat any animals in contact with the infested animal even if they are not showing any signs.

The Rutgers Cooperative Extension fact sheet “Common Mites of Your Rabbit and Small Animals Part 1 – Fur Mites” provides an overview of the three types of mites, how they are transmitted, life cycle, signs and symptoms, and treatment.

By Jeannette Rea Keywood, State 4-H Agent, Department of 4-H Youth Development, Rutgers Cooperative Extension

Filed Under: Featured Resource, Rabbit/Cavy/Small Animal Tagged With: care, health, parasites

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A Project of New Jersey 4-H Youth Development

New Jersey 4-H provides educational outreach programming for youth in grades K-13 (one year out of high school) through 4-H clubs, special interest programs, school enrichment, afterschool programs, and overnight camping.

Regardless of the subject matter – whether it be science, healthy living or citizenship, 4-H uses a learn-by-doing approach to help youth learn responsibility, community awareness and character development.

New Jersey 4-H Youth Development is a department of the Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station.

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