Could it be mites?

[blackrose]

I've noticed that in the past couple of days Dot has started to get itchier. I went to brush her today with a comb as her coat started to look a bit neglected and as soon as I started brushing her she just kept itching and a scratching. everywhere.
I was combing out a lot of loose fur and it had dandruffy particles attached. I haven't noticed any balding patches (although her coat is thin) and she's been eating and drinking fine. She came from a rescue where the pigs were screened for mites and Lucy had never had a problem with them, so for the life of me I don't know where she would have picked some up if she has them.

Does it sound like mites or just bad skin? I'm not going to be able to get her into the vet until Monday at the earliest (having surgery on my knee), and I didn't know if there were any certain things I should be worried about or looking out for in the meantime.

[Haley0489]

It sounds like something, possibly mites, since you say there was lots of fur and dandruff attached. It's believed that mites lay dormant under the skin and can arise in times of stress [or humidity] and multiply causing an infestation. If you'd like to treat as a precautionary you can get ivermectin online or at feed stores and treat according to the Guinea Lynx instructions, no vet appointment needed.

[blackrose]

I looked at the guinealynx website and it said you could either give the ivermectin topically or orally...I'm assuming topically would be easier, but will it work as well? I can get the ivermectin through my work (I work at a vet clinic). It is all one in the same, I assume? No different types to worry about?

[Haley0489]

If you do it orally you have to dilute it, so most people go for topical because it's easier! Works just as well because it should all end up in the blood stream.