Identification of ectoparasites in rabbits (oryctolagus cuniculus) and their associated risk factors in three selected zoos in Malaysia

An abstract of the research paper presented to the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, in partial requirement on the course DVT 55204- Research Project.
With the rising trend of zoos in Malaysia, where visitors interact with animals, there is a potential risk of ectoparasite transmission to visitors. This study aims to identify the ectoparasite, and investigate the potential associated risk factors of ectoparasites among rabbits in three selected zoos in Malaysia. The study was conducted on three selected zoos in Malaysia. The samples were selected using simple random sampling without replacement from three zoos in Malaysia. Skin scrapings, hair plucking, and tape strip techniques were used to collect samples from the selected rabbits with clinical signs. A total of 57.5% (n=23/40) of rabbits from the three zoos were identified as positive for ectoparasites. Mites presented were Sarcoptes spp. Notoedres spp. and Leporacarus spp. Young rabbit was found to be a potential risk factor due to its significant relationship with the presence of ectoparasites. As a conclusion, from the findings, there is importance of ectoparasite identification and surveillance among rabbits in the zoo where this will lead to a better management and control practice to prevent further infestation and transmission to other animals and humans. To achieve more accurate and precise identification of the ectoparasites to the species level, molecular identification and sequencing techniques should be implemented in the future.