Difference between revisions of "Midges - Donkey"

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=Sweet itch=
 
=Sweet itch=
  
This is hypersensitivity caused by flies of [[Ceratopogonidae|''Culicoides spp.'']] and a recurring seasonal problem in susceptible donkeys is common. Observations at [http://drupal.thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk/ The Donkey Sanctuary] would indicate that a familial predisposition to sweet itch might exist.
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This is hypersensitivity caused by flies of ''Culicoides spp.'' and a recurring seasonal problem in susceptible donkeys is common. Observations at [http://drupal.thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk/ The Donkey Sanctuary] would indicate that a familial predisposition to sweet itch might exist.
  
 
==Clinical Signs==
 
==Clinical Signs==
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* Insecticides: 4% permethrin and benzyl benzoate (do not apply to broken or damaged skin)
 
* Insecticides: 4% permethrin and benzyl benzoate (do not apply to broken or damaged skin)
 
* Recently Boett blankets have been used to good effect at [http://drupal.thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk/ the Donkey Sanctuary] for donkeys with a history of sweet itch. The blankets are made of a special lightweight and breathable fabric that prevents midges biting. It can be used with a hood covering the ears depending on the part of the donkey affected by the sweet itch
 
* Recently Boett blankets have been used to good effect at [http://drupal.thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk/ the Donkey Sanctuary] for donkeys with a history of sweet itch. The blankets are made of a special lightweight and breathable fabric that prevents midges biting. It can be used with a hood covering the ears depending on the part of the donkey affected by the sweet itch
 
==Literature Search==
 
[[File:CABI logo.jpg|left|90px]]
 
 
 
Use these links to find recent scientific publications via CAB Abstracts (log in required unless accessing from a subscribing organisation).
 
<br><br><br>
 
[http://www.cabdirect.org/search.html?q=%28title%3A%28%22culicoides%22%29+OR+title%3A%28midges%29%29+AND+%28od%3A%28donkeys%29+OR+title%3A%28donkey%29+OR+ab%3A%28donkey%29%29 Midges in donkeys publications]
 
  
 
==References==
 
==References==

Revision as of 22:20, 22 March 2010

Sweet itch

This is hypersensitivity caused by flies of Culicoides spp. and a recurring seasonal problem in susceptible donkeys is common. Observations at The Donkey Sanctuary would indicate that a familial predisposition to sweet itch might exist.

Clinical Signs

Sweet itch presents as a pruritic dermatitis with lesions, usually along the dorsal surface of the donkey from neck to rump.

Treatment and control

Donkey wearing a blanket to prevent sweet itch. (Image courtesy of The Donkey Sanctuary)
  • Control of the midges should effect a cure
  • In more severe cases the use of topical antibacterial shampoos and even antibiotic and corticosteroids may be indicated

There are a number of other control measures that can be used, each with variable success.

  • Avoid areas favourable for the breeding of midges, such as stagnant water, decaying vegetation and manure
  • Problem fields or areas (tree cover, overgrown hedges, low lying or sheltered pastures) should be identified and avoided, and low risk areas (open windy hill tops) should be utilised
  • Midges are most active at dusk and dawn so it is recommended that donkeys are stabled during this period
  • Insect repellents: Deet (N,N-Diethyl-m-toluamide)
  • Insecticides: 4% permethrin and benzyl benzoate (do not apply to broken or damaged skin)
  • Recently Boett blankets have been used to good effect at the Donkey Sanctuary for donkeys with a history of sweet itch. The blankets are made of a special lightweight and breathable fabric that prevents midges biting. It can be used with a hood covering the ears depending on the part of the donkey affected by the sweet itch

References

  • Trawford, A. and Getachew, M. (2008) Parasites In Svendsen, E.D., Duncan, J. and Hadrill, D. (2008) The Professional Handbook of the Donkey, 4th edition, Whittet Books, Chapter 6
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ECTOPARASITES - DONKEY


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