Pinworms, scientifically known as Passalurus ambiguus, are a common intestinal parasite found in rabbits.
Infections commonly occur when worm eggs are accidentally consumed along with food or enter their system by any other means.
Once inside the digestive system, the larvae evolve within the mucosa layer of the small intestine and cecum, gradually growing into fully matured adults.
The adult female worms lay their eggs in the area surrounding the anus, often leading to itchiness and skin inflammation for your bunny.
“Although it’s not a major health threat, incessant itching and skin inflammation can cause significant discomfort,” says Dr Abhishek Shokeen, Veterinarian, BVSc & AH, specializing in exotic pets such as Rabbits.
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Symptoms of Pinworm Infection in Rabbits
Early recognition of pinworm infection can substantially aid in swift and effective treatment, reducing the distress and discomfort your rabbit might experience.
Awareness of the following symptoms will prepare you to act in a timely, ensuring the well-being and health of your beloved pet.
Rabbit Scratching or Biting at Her Hind End
One of the most noticeable symptoms of a pinworm infection is when your rabbit continually scratches or bites at her hind end.
Constant scratching can cause the skin around the anus and genital area to become inflamed and red, and in some cases, it can lead to hair loss (alopecia) in these regions. In severe cases of infestation, these issues may worsen, potentially leading to rectal prolapse.
This behaviour is indicative of the irritation and itching caused by the presence of pinworms in the cecum and colon.
Secondary bacterial infections can also arise from these open wounds, worsening the overall condition.
Small White Worms in Feces
A direct and unambiguous sign of pinworm infection is the appearance of small, white, thread-like worms. These may be observed around your rabbit’s anus or within her faeces.
Although these worms might be challenging to spot due to their diminutive size, their presence unmistakably signals a pinworm infestation.
Additional Symptoms to Note
Beyond the clear signs of scratching and the presence of worms, other symptoms may manifest in rabbits with pinworm infection.
Although rare, weight loss, despite regular feeding habits, is a concern and should prompt further investigation.
Lethargy or a noticeable decline in energy levels and activity is another sign that your rabbit may be battling a pinworm infestation.
How To Treat Pinworms
It may be unclear how many pinworms are in your rabbit’s system at a given time.
Even though your rabbit’s immune system is keeping the worms under control, a stressful situation can quickly turn this into a serious issue.
It goes without saying that a vet’s visit is the first thing to do here.
The vet will do a physical inspection of the rectal region to check for visible worms, or alternatively, examine a stool sample to confirm the presence of a worm infestation.
Based on the severity of the infection and the overall health of your rabbit, a tailored treatment plan will be formulated.
Typically, this includes fenbendazole (anti-worm) medication designed to kill the pinworms. Administering the medication as directed by the veterinarian is essential for effective treatment.
Pro Tip: Consider purchasing the required medication online or from a medical store post-consultation. A 125 mL bottle of fenbendazole is reasonably priced at around $25, making it affordable. The medicines at the Vets are sometimes marked up so you may have to shell out extra if you buy from the clinic.
How Did My Rabbit Get Infected with Pinworms?
There are various ways your rabbit could get infected with pinworms.
Ingestion of Infected Material
- Food: Your rabbit may ingest pinworm eggs through contaminated food or water. Ensuring a clean and reliable food and water source is essential in preventing pinworm infections.
- Infected Bedding or Litter: Your rabbit can inadvertently consume pinworm eggs present in their bedding or litter. These eggs are microscopic and can easily adhere to the bedding material, making it a likely source of infection.
- Contact with Infected Feces: Pinworm eggs may be present in the faeces of infected rabbits. If your rabbit comes into contact with infected faeces (whether directly or indirectly through contaminated food or water), they may ingest pinworm eggs, leading to an infection.
Contact with Infected Rabbits
Direct contact with other infected rabbits or animals can be a source of pinworm infection. The eggs can transfer from the fur or anus of an infected rabbit to your pet, especially if they are housed together.
Environmental Factors
An environment contaminated with pinworm eggs can also cause infection. Pinworm eggs can survive in the environment for a significant period, increasing the risk of infection for your rabbit.
Regular cleaning and disinfecting of your rabbit’s living environment can help minimize this risk.
FAQs
- Can humans get pinworms from rabbits?
No, humans cannot get pinworms from rabbits. Pinworms are extremely species-specific which means the ones that affect your bunny are not likely to survive in humans. - Can pinworms kill rabbits?
While pinworms themselves are not typically life-threatening, a severe infestation can cause significant health issues for your rabbit. Pinworms can lead to discomfort, itching, and inflammation.
If left untreated, a severe infestation can cause weight loss, lethargy, and a weakened immune system, leaving the rabbit more susceptible to other diseases and infections.