Trixacarus caviae is a microscopic mite causing severe skin conditions in guinea pigs, commonly known as guinea pig mange. These tiny parasites burrow into the skin, leading to intense discomfort. While the incidence of mange mites in guinea pigs is sometimes stated as rare, infestations are a common concern for guinea pig owners. This condition can significantly impact a guinea pig’s well-being and, if left unaddressed, can lead to more serious health complications.
Recognizing an Infestation
Guinea pigs infested with Trixacarus caviae exhibit pronounced discomfort from mites burrowing into their skin. Intense itching (pruritus) is a primary indicator, often leading to vigorous scratching and self-mutilation. This persistent scratching frequently results in noticeable hair loss, particularly around the back, neck, shoulders, and ears, with some cases showing hair loss across the entire body.
The affected skin may appear thickened, flaky, or crusty, and open sores or scabs can develop from constant scratching. Infested guinea pigs might also show behavioral alterations such as restlessness, lethargy, decreased appetite, and weight loss. In severe instances, the pain from intense itching can cause seizures or other abnormal behaviors.
How Infestations Occur
Guinea pigs primarily acquire Trixacarus caviae through direct contact with an infected guinea pig. Even healthy-looking guinea pigs can be carriers without showing overt symptoms, making them a source of transmission. The mites are species-specific, meaning they do not typically thrive on other household pets.
Indirect transmission can also occur through shared environments or contaminated items. Mites can spread via bedding, food, toys, or other accessories that have been in contact with an infested animal. Furthermore, stress, underlying health issues, or a weakened immune system can cause a dormant mite infection to flare up, leading to noticeable symptoms in a previously asymptomatic guinea pig.
Treatment and Prevention
Treating an active Trixacarus caviae infestation requires veterinary attention and specific medications. A veterinarian typically diagnoses the condition through a deep skin scraping. However, mites can be difficult to find, so treatment might be prescribed based on clinical signs alone.
Common prescription medications include ivermectin and selamectin. Ivermectin is often administered by injection, orally, or topically, usually requiring multiple doses spaced 7 to 10 days apart because it does not kill mite eggs. Selamectin, a single topical dose, can eliminate mites within 30 days, while ivermectin may take up to 40 days for complete elimination. All guinea pigs in a household should be treated, as some may be asymptomatic carriers.
Preventing future infestations involves a combination of good husbandry and careful monitoring. Regularly cleaning and disinfecting the guinea pig’s cage and changing bedding frequently reduces the environmental presence of mites. When introducing new guinea pigs, quarantine them for two to three weeks to observe for any signs of mites and prevent spread to existing pets. Regular health checks, including observing for early signs of itching or skin changes, help detect and address infestations before they become severe.