Occurrence of Leporine Psoroptic Mange in Jos Metropolis and Evaluation of Anti-mititic Activities of Eucalyptus Globulus and Azadirachta Indica oils on Nigerian Hybrid Rabbits

Abstract

Rabbits are increasingly recognized as valuable livestock species, yet mange remains a significant ectoparasitic disease affecting dermatological integrity, welfare, and productivity. Ivermectin is the standard therapeutic agent; however, concerns about acaricide resistance, drug residues, and cost necessitate alternative management strategies. This study investigated the prevalence of mange in rabbits within Jos metropolis and evaluated the acaricidal efficacy of Eucalyptus globulus and Azadirachta indica (Neem) oils. One hundred skin scrapings were collected from rabbits presenting mange-like lesions across multiple farms and examined microscopically for mite identification. Infestation severity was categorised as mild, moderate, or severe. Eight naturally infested rabbits were randomly allocated into four groups (A–D). Group A (positive control) received ivermectin, while Groups B–D were treated topically with Eucalyptus oil, Neem oil, or their combination at intervals of 0, 7, 14, 21, and 28 days. Clinical efficacy was assessed based on lesion resolution and recovery rate. Mange prevalence was 79%, with mild (70.9%), moderate (17.7%), and severe (11.4%) infestations showing statistically significant variation (p < 0.0001, ᵡ² = 47.5910; df = 2). Therapeutic response also varied significantly across treatment groups (p < 0.0001, F = 1.844). Psoroptes cuniculi was identified as the predominant mite species. By day 35, Eucalyptus oil exhibited superior acaricidal activity, leaving only alopecia, while Neem oil and its combination with Eucalyptus produced marked but slightly less rapid healing, with minimal residual crusting. Findings demonstrate a high prevalence of mange in the study area and highlight essential oils as cost-effective, eco-friendly alternatives for rabbit mange control.