Small Mammals Q&A 11
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This question was provided by Manson Publishing as part of the OVAL Project. See more Small Mammals questions |
A chinchilla has diarrhoea for several days after purchase from a pet store. There is now a rectal prolapse. These organisms, measuring 15 micrometres were found in zinc sulphate floatation of a faecal sample.
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| What is this organism and is it causing the diarrhoea? | This is a cyst of a Giardia sp.
Giardia can may produce diarrhoea in many species of animals, including chinchillas. Identify it by size, the oval shape and the presence of nuclei, median bodies and flagella within the cyst. Zinc sulfate flotation is the test of choice to recover Giardia sp. from the faeces. A direct faecal smear is usually insufficient and multiple very fresh samples need to be evaluated. |
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| How would you treat the chinchilla? | Fenbendazole is probably the drug of choice for treatment, although metronidazole has also been used.
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| Are there any zoonotic considerations? | The zoonotic implication of Giardia in chinchillas is unknown. It is best to be safe and advise clients that there is a slight zoonotic risk.
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