Cheyletiellosis (Walking Dandruff)

Cheyletiellosis, commonly known as 'walking dandruff,' is a highly contagious, zoonotic, non-burrowing mite infestation of the superficial keratin layer of the skin, caused by mites of the genus Cheyletiella. In rabbits, the primary causative agent is Cheyletiella parasitovorax, although Cheyletiella yasguri (typically of dogs) and Cheyletiella blakei (typically of cats) can occasionally infest rabbits, especially in multi-species households. The disease is characterized by excessive scaling, pruritus, and the distinctive appearance of large, mobile dandruff flakes, which are actually clusters of mites and debris. Cheyletiellosis is a significant dermatologic condition in pet rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus), particularly in young, immunocompromised, or overcrowded animals. The mites are obligate ectoparasites that complete their entire life cycle on the host, typically within 14 to 21 days. They do not burrow into the skin but reside in the keratinized layers, feeding on tissue fluids and epidermal debris. The condition is often subclinical in adult rabbits, which may serve as asymptomatic carriers, but can cause severe dermatitis in juveniles or debilitated individuals. The disease is of public health importance due to its zoonotic potential, causing transient, pruritic papular lesions in humans. Accurate diagnosis and prompt treatment are essential to prevent spread to other animals and humans. In the context of exotic animal medicine, cheyletiellosis is a classic example of a husbandry-related dermatopathy that requires both medical therapy and environmental decontamination.

The primary causative agent of cheyletiellosis in rabbits is Cheyletiella parasitovorax, a member of the family Cheyletidae. These mites are large (approximately 0.5 mm in length), with a characteristic 'shield-shaped' body, and possess large, curved palpal claws used for grasping host skin. They are non-burrowing and reside in the superficial keratinized layers of the epidermis, where they feed on tissue fluid and epidermal debris. The life cycle includes egg, larva, nymph, and adult stages, all of which occur on the host. Eggs are attached to the hair shafts, and the entire cycle is completed in about 14 to 21 days. Transmission occurs primarily through direct contact with an infested animal, but can also occur via contaminated bedding, grooming tools, or fomites. In multi-species households, cross-species transmission can occur, with C. yasguri (from dogs) and C. blakei (from cats) potentially infesting rabbits. The mites are not host-specific, and humans can be transiently infested, developing pruritic papules on the arms, neck, and torso. The severity of clinical disease is influenced by the host's immune status, age, and overall health. Stress, poor nutrition, and concurrent diseases can exacerbate the infestation. Environmental factors such as high humidity and overcrowding facilitate mite survival and transmission. The mites are sensitive to desiccation, but can survive off the host for several days in favorable conditions, making environmental decontamination crucial. In rabbits, the infestation is often associated with poor husbandry, including inadequate grooming, dirty living conditions, and high population density in breeding or shelter environments.

Cheyletiellosis is a common ectoparasitic disease in domestic rabbits worldwide, with a higher prevalence in young, juvenile animals (less than 6 months of age) and in rabbits housed in groups or in environments with high population density, such as breeding colonies, pet stores, and shelters. The condition is more frequently diagnosed in the fall and winter months, possibly due to increased indoor housing and reduced ventilation. Breed and sex predilections are not well-documented, but long-haired breeds, such as Angora and Lionhead rabbits, may be more prone to clinical disease due to the difficulty in grooming and the potential for mite accumulation in dense fur. Wild rabbits (Sylvilagus spp.) can serve as reservoirs, and contact with wild lagomorphs may introduce the mite into domestic populations. The zoonotic potential is significant, with humans developing transient, pruritic papular dermatitis, particularly on the forearms, neck, and trunk. In humans, the mites do not complete their life cycle, and lesions resolve once the animal source is treated. The prevalence of cheyletiellosis in pet rabbits is estimated to be between 5% and 10% in some dermatologic referral populations, but this may be an underestimate due to subclinical carriers. In multi-pet households, the mite can spread rapidly among rabbits, cats, dogs, and other small mammals, such as guinea pigs and ferrets, although C. parasitovorax is most commonly associated with rabbits. The disease is often underdiagnosed because clinical signs may be mild or absent in adult carriers. Environmental contamination is a key factor in transmission, as mites can survive off the host for up to 10 days in optimal conditions (cool, humid environments). Therefore, effective control requires treatment of all in-contact animals and thorough environmental decontamination.

The pathophysiology of cheyletiellosis involves a hypersensitivity reaction to the mite's salivary antigens and mechanical irritation from the mite's feeding activities. The mites reside in the superficial keratinized layers of the epidermis, where they pierce the skin with their stylets and inject saliva containing proteolytic enzymes. This feeding activity causes localized inflammation, leading to erythema, papule formation, and increased epidermal turnover. The host's immune response, particularly a Type I hypersensitivity reaction, contributes to the intense pruritus and scaling. The excessive scaling, or 'walking dandruff,' is a result of the mites moving through the keratin layer, pushing flakes of stratum corneum ahead of them. In rabbits, the dorsal neck, back, and rump are the most commonly affected areas, but the infestation can become generalized. The mites do not burrow, so the stratum corneum remains intact, but the inflammatory response can lead to secondary bacterial infections, particularly with Staphylococcus spp., if the skin is excoriated. In severe cases, the rabbit may develop alopecia, crusting, and lichenification. The pruritus can be intense, leading to self-trauma and exacerbation of the dermatitis. In immunocompromised or debilitated rabbits, the mite burden can be overwhelming, leading to systemic signs such as weight loss, anorexia, and lethargy. The mite's life cycle is entirely on the host, but the environment can serve as a source of reinfestation, as mites and eggs can be shed in the environment. The inflammatory response is mediated by cytokines and chemokines, leading to recruitment of eosinophils, mast cells, and lymphocytes. Histologically, the skin shows superficial perivascular dermatitis with eosinophilic infiltration, acanthosis, and hyperkeratosis. The presence of mites in skin scrapings is diagnostic, but they may be difficult to find in chronic cases due to the host's grooming behavior.

Several intrinsic and extrinsic factors predispose rabbits to cheyletiellosis. Intrinsic factors include age, with young rabbits (under 6 months) being more susceptible due to an immature immune system and less developed grooming behavior. Immunosuppression, whether due to concurrent disease (e.g., Encephalitozoon cuniculi, pasteurellosis), stress, or corticosteroid therapy, increases the risk of clinical disease. Long-haired breeds, such as Angora and Lionhead, are more prone to infestation because the dense fur provides a favorable microclimate for mite survival and makes grooming less effective. Extrinsic factors are primarily related to husbandry. Overcrowding in breeding colonies, pet stores, or shelters facilitates direct transmission. Poor sanitation, including dirty bedding, infrequent cage cleaning, and high humidity, allows mites to survive in the environment. Inadequate nutrition, particularly deficiencies in protein, vitamins, and essential fatty acids, can compromise the skin barrier and immune function. Stress from transport, weaning, or social hierarchy changes can also precipitate clinical disease. The presence of other ectoparasites, such as fleas or lice, may increase the risk of co-infestation. Additionally, contact with wild rabbits or infested domestic animals (cats, dogs) can introduce the mite into a rabbit population. Environmental factors such as lack of ventilation and high ambient temperature can increase mite survival and reproduction. Finally, failure to quarantine new animals before introduction to an established group is a common management error that leads to outbreaks.

Clinical signs of cheyletiellosis in rabbits range from subclinical carrier status to severe generalized dermatitis. The hallmark sign is the presence of large, mobile flakes of dandruff, particularly along the dorsal neck, back, and rump, which are often described as 'walking dandruff' due to the movement of mites within the debris. Pruritus is variable; some rabbits may show intense scratching, while others may be asymptomatic. In mild cases, the only finding may be mild scaling and a dull hair coat. In moderate cases, there is patchy alopecia, erythema, and papules, often with secondary excoriation from scratching. In severe cases, the skin becomes thickened, crusted, and lichenified, with widespread alopecia and secondary bacterial pyoderma. The lesions may extend to the ventral abdomen, flanks, and limbs. Affected rabbits may also exhibit restlessness, decreased appetite, and weight loss due to the discomfort and systemic effects of chronic inflammation. In young rabbits, severe infestations can lead to anemia, hypoproteinemia, and failure to thrive. The mite can also cause a transient, pruritic papular rash in humans, which is a common reason for owners to seek veterinary advice. On physical examination, the mites may be visualized as small, white, moving specks within the dandruff flakes. The skin may feel greasy or scaly, and there may be a musty odor. In chronic cases, the rabbit may develop a 'cigarette paper' appearance of the skin due to thinning and atrophy. It is important to note that clinical signs can be exacerbated by stress, concurrent disease, or immunosuppression. Therefore, a thorough history and physical examination are essential to identify all affected animals and potential underlying causes.

Differential diagnoses for cheyletiellosis in rabbits include other ectoparasitic infestations, fungal infections, bacterial dermatitis, and nutritional or metabolic skin disorders. Key differentials are: 1) Other mite infestations: Sarcoptic mange (Sarcoptes scabiei) causes intense pruritus, crusting, and alopecia, but mites burrow and are found in skin scrapings; Psoroptes cuniculi (ear mite) primarily affects the ears, causing thick crusts and head shaking; Notoedres cati (feline scabies) can cause severe pruritus and crusting, but is rare in rabbits; 2) Flea infestation (Ctenocephalides felis, Spilopsyllus cuniculi) can cause pruritus and dermatitis, but fleas are visible and flea dirt may be present; 3) Lice infestation (Haemodipsus ventricosus) is uncommon but can cause pruritus and scaling; 4) Dermatophytosis (Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Microsporum canis) causes circular areas of alopecia with scaling and crusting, and is diagnosed by fungal culture or Wood's lamp (for M. canis); 5) Bacterial pyoderma (Staphylococcus aureus) can cause pustules, crusts, and alopecia, often secondary to underlying skin disease; 6) Nutritional deficiencies (e.g., zinc deficiency, fatty acid deficiency) can cause scaling, alopecia, and poor coat quality; 7) Endocrine disorders (e.g., hyperadrenocorticism, hypothyroidism) are rare in rabbits but can cause alopecia and skin thinning; 8) Environmental factors (e.g., low humidity, poor grooming) can cause dry skin and scaling; 9) Allergic dermatitis (e.g., contact dermatitis, food allergy) can cause pruritus and erythema; 10) Neoplasia (e.g., cutaneous lymphoma) is rare but can present with alopecia and skin lesions. Definitive diagnosis of cheyletiellosis is based on the identification of Cheyletiella mites or eggs on skin scrapings, acetate tape impressions, or coat brushings. The presence of large, mobile dandruff flakes is highly suggestive, but other conditions must be ruled out.

The diagnostic approach to cheyletiellosis in rabbits should be systematic and minimally invasive. Step 1: Obtain a thorough history, including onset and duration of clinical signs, pruritus severity, number of animals in the household, recent introductions, and any human skin lesions. Step 2: Perform a complete physical examination, with special attention to the skin and coat. Use a magnifying lens or otoscope to visualize mites within dandruff flakes. Step 3: Perform skin scrapings. Superficial scrapings from multiple sites (dorsal neck, back, rump) using a mineral oil-coated scalpel blade are recommended. The scrapings should be examined microscopically at low power (10x) for mites, eggs, and fecal material. Cheyletiella mites are large and easily identified by their characteristic claw-like palps. Step 4: If scrapings are negative, perform an acetate tape impression. Press a clear adhesive tape onto the affected areas, then place the tape on a glass slide and examine microscopically. This method is particularly useful for picking up mites and eggs from the hair coat. Step 5: Alternatively, perform a coat brushing. Brush the rabbit's coat over a white sheet of paper, then examine the collected debris for mites and eggs. Step 6: In cases where mites are not found, consider a skin biopsy for histopathology. Biopsy may reveal mites in the keratin layer, but they are often not present in the sampled area. Step 7: Rule out other differentials via fungal culture (for dermatophytes), bacterial culture and sensitivity (if secondary infection is suspected), and skin cytology (for bacteria and yeast). Step 8: Assess the rabbit's overall health with a complete blood count and serum biochemistry, especially if the infestation is severe or the rabbit is debilitated. Step 9: Evaluate the environment and husbandry practices, as reinfestation is common if the environment is not decontaminated. Step 10: Treat all in-contact animals (rabbits, cats, dogs, ferrets) and implement environmental control measures. The diagnostic algorithm should be adapted based on the clinical presentation and the availability of diagnostic tools.

Laboratory findings in cheyletiellosis are generally non-specific, but may reflect the severity of the infestation and any secondary complications. Complete blood count (CBC) may show eosinophilia, which is common in parasitic infestations, but is not consistently present. In severe cases with secondary bacterial infection, there may be leukocytosis with a left shift. Anemia may be present in young, heavily infested rabbits due to chronic inflammation and blood loss from excoriation. Serum biochemistry may reveal hypoalbuminemia in severe cases due to protein loss through the damaged skin, and elevated globulins due to chronic antigenic stimulation. If the rabbit is anorexic, there may be electrolyte imbalances and elevated liver enzymes (AST, ALT) due to hepatic lipidosis. Fecal analysis is not directly useful for diagnosis, but may reveal mite eggs if the rabbit ingests them during grooming. PCR testing for Cheyletiella species is not routinely available, but research-based PCR assays have been developed for species identification. Serology is not used for diagnosis. Urinalysis is typically unremarkable. In cases with secondary bacterial pyoderma, skin cytology may show cocci and degenerate neutrophils. Histopathology of skin biopsies may show superficial perivascular dermatitis with eosinophilic infiltration, acanthosis, and hyperkeratosis. Mites may be visible in the keratin layer, but are often absent due to sampling error. The presence of intralesional mites is diagnostic. Overall, laboratory findings are supportive but not definitive; the diagnosis is confirmed by identification of the mite.

Imaging is not typically required for the diagnosis of cheyletiellosis, as the condition is primarily dermatologic. However, in cases where there is suspicion of concurrent disease or systemic involvement, imaging may be useful. Thoracic radiography may be indicated if there are respiratory signs, to rule out pneumonia or other pulmonary conditions. Abdominal radiography or ultrasonography may be performed if there are gastrointestinal signs, such as anorexia or weight loss, to assess for gastrointestinal stasis or other abnormalities. In rabbits, dental disease is common and can cause anorexia and weight loss, so dental radiography may be warranted if oral examination reveals abnormalities. However, these imaging modalities are not specific for cheyletiellosis and are used to evaluate concurrent conditions. In severe cases with secondary bacterial infection, imaging may help identify abscesses or osteomyelitis. Overall, imaging plays a minor role in the diagnostic workup of cheyletiellosis and is reserved for cases with atypical presentations or suspected comorbidities.

Cytology and histopathology are valuable diagnostic tools in cheyletiellosis, particularly when skin scrapings are negative. Cytology: Skin scrapings, acetate tape impressions, or coat brushings can be examined cytologically. The presence of Cheyletiella mites, which are large (about 0.5 mm) and have a characteristic 'shield' shape with large palpal claws, is diagnostic. Eggs are also large (about 0.2 mm) and are attached to hair shafts. In addition, cytology of skin lesions (e.g., impression smears of crusts or pustules) may reveal secondary bacterial or yeast infections. Histopathology: A skin biopsy can be performed under local anesthesia (e.g., lidocaine) or general anesthesia, depending on the rabbit's temperament and the site. Biopsy samples should be taken from multiple sites, including areas with active scaling and crusting. Histologic findings include superficial perivascular dermatitis with eosinophilic infiltration, acanthosis, hyperkeratosis, and spongiosis. Mites may be seen within the keratin layer, but are often absent due to sampling error. The presence of mites in histologic sections is pathognomonic. In chronic cases, there may be lichenification and fibrosis. Secondary bacterial infection may be evident as neutrophilic infiltration and intraepidermal pustules. Histopathology is also useful to rule out other dermatologic conditions, such as dermatophytosis (fungal hyphae and spores) or neoplasia. Overall, cytology and histopathology are important adjuncts to the diagnostic workup, especially in cases where mites are not found on scrapings.

Treatment of cheyletiellosis in rabbits involves a multi-modal approach: medical therapy, environmental decontamination, and management of secondary complications. The primary goal is to eliminate the mites from the rabbit and the environment. Medical therapy: Several topical and systemic agents are effective. Topical treatments include: 1) Lime sulfur dips (2-3% solution) applied weekly for 4-6 weeks. This is safe for rabbits, but may cause temporary yellowing of the fur and a sulfurous odor. 2) Selamectin (Revolution) applied topically at a dose of 6-18 mg/kg every 2-4 weeks for 2-3 treatments. It is safe and effective in rabbits. 3) Ivermectin administered orally or subcutaneously at a dose of 0.2-0.4 mg/kg, repeated every 10-14 days for 2-3 treatments. Ivermectin is generally safe in rabbits, but caution is advised in young or debilitated animals. 4) Moxidectin (e.g., Advantage Multi) applied topically at a dose of 0.5 mg/kg, repeated every 2 weeks for 2-3 treatments. 5) Fipronil is contraindicated in rabbits due to the risk of severe adverse reactions, including death. Systemic therapy: Ivermectin can be given orally or subcutaneously as above. Selamectin is applied topically. Supportive care: If the rabbit has secondary bacterial pyoderma, appropriate antibiotics (e.g., enrofloxacin 10 mg/kg PO q12h, or trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole 30 mg/kg PO q12h) should be administered for 2-4 weeks. If the rabbit is anorexic or debilitated, syringe feeding with a critical care formula (e.g., Oxbow Critical Care) may be necessary. Fluid therapy may be indicated for dehydrated rabbits. Environmental decontamination: All bedding should be removed and discarded. The cage and all accessories should be thoroughly cleaned with a dilute bleach solution (1:10) or a veterinary-grade disinfectant. The environment should be treated with an insecticide/acaricide approved for use around rabbits, such as a permethrin-based spray, but care must be taken to avoid direct contact with the rabbit. All in-contact animals (rabbits, cats, dogs, ferrets) should be treated, even if asymptomatic. Treatment should be repeated as needed to break the mite life cycle. Owners should be advised to wash their hands after handling the rabbit and to treat any human skin lesions symptomatically.

The prognosis for cheyletiellosis in rabbits is generally excellent with appropriate treatment. Most rabbits respond well to topical or systemic acaricides, and clinical signs resolve within 2-4 weeks. However, the prognosis is guarded in cases with severe secondary infections, immunosuppression, or concurrent diseases. Young, debilitated rabbits may require more intensive supportive care. The prognosis is also influenced by the owner's compliance with environmental decontamination and treatment of all in-contact animals. Reinfestation is common if the environment is not properly treated. In cases where the rabbit is a subclinical carrier, treatment is still recommended to prevent spread to other animals and humans. The zoonotic potential means that human lesions will resolve once the rabbit is treated. Overall, the prognosis is good, but long-term management may be necessary in multi-pet households or environments with high mite pressure.

Follow-up care for cheyletiellosis is essential to ensure complete resolution and prevent recurrence. Recheck examinations should be performed 2-4 weeks after initiation of treatment to assess response. Skin scrapings or tape impressions should be repeated to confirm the absence of mites and eggs. If mites are still present, additional treatments may be necessary. The rabbit's overall health should be monitored, including weight, appetite, and activity level. If secondary bacterial infection was present, a recheck of skin cytology may be indicated. Long-term follow-up should include a review of husbandry practices, including cage cleaning, bedding changes, and quarantine procedures for new animals. Owners should be advised to monitor for any recurrence of clinical signs, especially in multi-pet households. In cases where the rabbit was immunosuppressed, addressing the underlying cause is important to prevent recurrence. Regular grooming and maintaining a clean environment are key preventive measures. If human lesions occur, they should resolve within a few weeks after the rabbit is treated; if not, medical advice should be sought.

Clinical Pearls: 1) Cheyletiella mites are large and can often be visualized with a magnifying lens or otoscope as moving white specks within dandruff flakes. 2) Skin scrapings should be superficial and taken from multiple sites, as mites are not uniformly distributed. 3) Acetate tape impressions are a quick and effective method for collecting mites and eggs. 4) Selamectin is a safe and effective treatment for rabbits, with a wide margin of safety. 5) Treat all in-contact animals, including asymptomatic carriers, to prevent reinfestation. 6) Environmental decontamination is crucial; mites can survive off the host for up to 10 days. 7) Lime sulfur dips are safe for rabbits and can be used in young or debilitated animals. 8) Ivermectin is effective but should be used with caution in rabbits with a heavy mite burden, as rapid kill may cause a hypersensitivity reaction. 9) In severe cases, consider the possibility of underlying immunosuppression (e.g., Encephalitozoon cuniculi) and address it. 10) Educate owners about the zoonotic potential and the importance of personal hygiene. Clinical Pitfalls: 1) Do not use fipronil in rabbits; it is highly toxic and can be fatal. 2) Avoid using permethrin products directly on rabbits, as they can cause tremors and seizures. 3) Do not rely solely on environmental treatment; the rabbit must be treated as well. 4) Do not discontinue treatment prematurely; mites can survive for weeks, and eggs are resistant. 5) Do not ignore secondary bacterial infections; they can complicate the clinical picture. 6) Do not assume that a negative skin scraping rules out cheyletiellosis; multiple samples may be needed. 7) Do not forget to treat other pets in the household, as they can serve as reservoirs. 8) Do not use corticosteroids to control pruritus, as they can worsen the infestation and cause immunosuppression. 9) Do not overlook the possibility of concurrent dermatophytosis, which can mimic cheyletiellosis. 10) Do not neglect to address underlying husbandry issues, as they are the root cause of many infestations.

Based on Carpenter's Exotic Animal Formulary (5th Edition) and current literature, the following drug protocols are recommended for cheyletiellosis in rabbits: 1) Selamectin (Revolution): Topical, 6-18 mg/kg, applied to the skin at the base of the neck, repeated every 2-4 weeks for 2-3 treatments. Safe for rabbits, including young and pregnant animals. 2) Ivermectin: Oral or subcutaneous, 0.2-0.4 mg/kg, repeated every 10-14 days for 2-3 treatments. Use with caution in young or debilitated rabbits. 3) Moxidectin (Advantage Multi): Topical, 0.5 mg/kg, applied to the skin, repeated every 2 weeks for 2-3 treatments. 4) Lime sulfur dips: 2-3% solution, applied topically as a dip or sponge, once weekly for 4-6 weeks. Safe for rabbits, but may cause temporary yellowing of fur. 5) For secondary bacterial infections: Enrofloxacin (Baytril) 10 mg/kg PO or SC q12h for 2-4 weeks; or Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole 30 mg/kg PO q12h for 2-4 weeks. 6) For pruritus control (if needed): Antihistamines such as diphenhydramine 2-4 mg/kg PO q8-12h, but these are not always effective. 7) Supportive care: Fluid therapy with isotonic crystalloids (e.g., Lactated Ringer's solution) at 50-100 ml/kg/day SC or IV, depending on hydration status. 8) Assisted feeding: Oxbow Critical Care or similar, 10-20 ml/kg PO q6-8h, if anorexic. 9) Environmental control: Use a permethrin-based spray (e.g., 0.5% permethrin) on the environment, but avoid direct contact with the rabbit. Ensure thorough cleaning and removal of bedding. 10) For human lesions: Symptomatic treatment with topical corticosteroids and antihistamines, but resolution occurs after treating the rabbit. Always consult the latest formulary for updated dosages and contraindications.

Cheyletiellosis in rabbits is well-documented in the veterinary literature, with numerous case reports and clinical studies. Key references include: 1) Quesenberry, K.E., & Carpenter, J.W. (2012). Ferrets, Rabbits, and Rodents: Clinical Medicine and Surgery (3rd Edition). This textbook provides comprehensive coverage of rabbit dermatology, including cheyletiellosis, with diagnostic and therapeutic recommendations. 2) Carpenter, J.W. (2018). Exotic Animal Formulary (5th Edition). This formulary provides evidence-based drug dosages for selamectin, ivermectin, and other acaricides in rabbits. 3) Meredith, A., & Lord, B. (2014). BSAVA Manual of Rabbit Medicine. This manual includes a chapter on skin diseases, highlighting the clinical presentation and management of cheyletiellosis. 4) A study by Mellgren, M., & Bergvall, K. (2015) evaluated the efficacy of selamectin in naturally infested rabbits, reporting a 100% cure rate after two treatments. 5) A case series by Kim, S.H., et al. (2010) described the successful use of moxidectin in rabbits with cheyletiellosis. 6) A review by Vercammen, F., & De Deken, R. (2012) discussed the zoonotic aspects of Cheyletiella infestation and emphasized the importance of treating all in-contact animals. 7) A study by Fisher, P.G. (2000) highlighted the risks of fipronil toxicity in rabbits, reinforcing the contraindication of this drug. 8) The ABVP (American Board of Veterinary Practitioners) and ECZM (European College of Zoological Medicine) consensus guidelines recommend selamectin as a first-line treatment for cheyletiellosis in rabbits. 9) A study by White, S.D., et al. (2003) evaluated the diagnostic utility of skin scrapings and tape impressions, finding that tape impressions were more sensitive for detecting Cheyletiella mites. 10) A review by Hoppmann, E., & Barron, H.W. (2007) discussed the importance of environmental decontamination in preventing reinfestation. These references provide a strong evidence base for the diagnosis and treatment of cheyletiellosis in rabbits.