Bunnys Skin

Question
I am not sure if it is just dry skin, but my bunny will not stop scratching and is losing his fur. I brush him regularly, and his skin seems to be coming off in big flakes. Some spots seem to have a build up of skin. If possible could you tell me what this is and what I can do to help him feel better.

Answer
Dear Jennifer,

It sounds as if your bunny may have a case of fur mites (Cheyletiella sp.).  These usually are not itchy, but some rabbits are more sensitive to them than others.  The usual symptom is flaky white skin and hair falling out, most commonly along the back, but it can happen all over.

The condition is easily and safely treated with selamectin (Revolution) from your vet.  It's topical, and lasts about 30 days.  This is a much better option for fur mites than ivermectin, which is injectible and doesn't appear to last long enough in the body to really do any serious damage to fur mites, which feed on dead skin.

You can read more about this here:

www.bio.miami.edu/hare/furloss.html

And find a good rabbit vet here:

www.rabbit.org/vets

I hope this helps.  Please write back if you have any other questions.

Dana