Management of Tick Infestation in a hedgehog – Case Report | ||
| SVU-International Journal of Veterinary Sciences | ||
| Volume 8, Issue 1 - Serial Number 23, March 2025, Pages 27-31 PDF (219.79 K) | ||
| Document Type: Case Report | ||
| DOI: 10.21608/svu.2025.348138.1358 | ||
| Authors | ||
| NGOZI EJUM OGBUAGU* 1; Peter Ofemile Yusuf2; Graleya Bilbonga3; Collins Chimezie Udechukwu4 | ||
| 1Department of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Bayero University Kano, Nigeria | ||
| 2Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria. | ||
| 3Department of Veterinary Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria. | ||
| 4Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria | ||
| Abstract | ||
| Hedgehogs are small insectivorous mammals susceptible to tick infestations, which can result in systemic complications and act as vectors for zoonotic diseases. The case report presents the management of a tick-infested hedgehog acquired from the wild and kept as a pet. The hedgehog exhibited lethargy, anorexia, and pale ocular mucous membranes. Examination revealed a body temperature of 35.4°C, respiratory rate 40 cycles/min and ticks across its body. Laboratory investigations identified the ticks as Amblyomma variegatum and Ixodes hexagonus which confirmed anemia, lymphopenia, neutrophilia, and granulocyte elevation. Treatment included subcutaneous ivermectin (0.2 mg/kg), intramuscular diminazene aceturate (2.5 mg/kg), topical fipronil spray, and supportive fluid therapy with 5% dextrose saline. These interventions effectively resolved the tick infestation and its associated complications. This case highlights the importance of timely diagnosis and comprehensive treatment of tick infestations in hedgehogs, demonstrating the effectiveness of combining antiparasitics with supportive care and the need for continued research into managing tick-borne diseases in vulnerable species. | ||
| Keywords | ||
| Amblyomma variegatum; Anemia; Hedgehog; Ixodes hexagonus | ||
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