Efficacy of the pyrethroid permethrin on the control of Psoroptes ovis (Hering, 1838) (Acari:Psoroptidae) in naturally infested rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus)

The goal of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of a spray formulation containing 2% of the pyrethroid permethrin on the control of Psoroptes ovis in naturally infested rabbits. Ten rabbits, presenting clinical signs of psoroptic mange in both ear canals. The animals were divided into two groups of five: control, without treatment (GI) and a second group (GII) treated with a single application of 2% permethrin. The diagnosis was realized by collecting fragments of crusts from both ear canals and submitting to stereomicroscopy for the presence and evaluation of mites' motility. On day 0 the animals from GII were treated topically with 2mg of 2% permethrin in each ear canal. No other treatment or environmental decontamination was performed during the trial. The rabbits were evaluated daily for observation of possible side effects. To evaluate the efficacy, collections of material were undertaken on days: +7, +14, +21. The formulation containing 2% permethrin was 100% effective in the control of P. ovis in naturally infested rabbits, along all days of observation. No adverse reactions were observed in the treated animals.