Session #2008

Abstract

Lizards remain popular as pets and exhibit animals at zoological institutions, as well as research models for clinical and basic science research. Unfortunately, these animals are commonly infected with one or more endoparasites, regardless of their source (e.g., wild caught, captive bred). One of the most common nematodes identified in captive reptiles is oxyurids. Oxyurids complete their entire life cycle in the gastrointestinal tract. Anecdotal reports suggest that these parasites are difficult to eliminate; however, there is limited evidence-based research confirming these reports. The purpose of this study was to determine if a single dose of a benzimidazole followed by weekly cage cleaning via a cage washer could eliminate oxyurids from two species of lizards. We hypothesized that a single dose of oxfendazole (25 mg/kg, per os) and cage cleaning would be sufficient to eliminate oxyurids from leopard geckos (Eublepharis macularius) and blue tongued skinks (Tiliqua scincoides). Ten geckos and eight skinks purchased from captive breeders and confirmed positive for oxyurids using a modified McMaster’s were recruited for the study. After the treatment, feces were collected at 2, 4, and 8 weeks post-treatment and screened for oxyurids using the modified McMaster’s. The majority of geckos (9/10, 90%) and skinks (6/8, 75%) were oxyurid negative at 8 weeks. Results suggest that a single dose of oxfendazole can clear oxyurids in the majority of animals; however, the treatment is not 100% effective. Animals should be monitored and provided additional treatment to prevent these parasites from becoming established in a collection.