137 Annales Universitatis Paedagogicae Cracoviensis Studia Naturae, 2: 137–158, 2017, ISSN 2543-8832 DOI: 10.24917/25438832.2.11 Anna Kocoń, Magdalena Nowak-Chmura* Department of Invertebrate Zoology and Parasitology, Institute of Biology, Cracow Pedagogical University, Cracow, Podchorążych 2, 30-084 Cracow, Poland; *magdalena.nowak-chmura@up.krakow.pl Skin ectoparasites of domestic animals Small pets have long accompanied their owners and play a positive role and strength- en their owners’ psychological well-being and their physiological welfare, as their life companions. According to research by Krassowska (2014), the majority of Poles that have pets at home choose a dog (Canis familiaris L.) (83%), fewer people decide on a cat (Felis catus L.) (44%), the third place of the most popular animals accompanying Poles at home are birds (4%), rodents (3%), and reptiles (1%). �e frequent phenomenon in accompanying animals is the infestation of their skin by insects or parasitic mites, causing onerous symptoms, such as discomfort, itching, or allergic reactions. Due to the close contact of people with pets, we are also exposed to the attacks of dangerous arthropods, causing, e.g., pediculosis, sarcoptosis, oto- dectomy, and demodicosis and transmitting many dangerous zoonotic diseases, such as Lyme disease tularaemia, rickettsiosis, ehrlichiosis, and others. Skin ectoparasites that most o�en attack domestic animals are mites (e.g., Demodex spp., Sarcoptes spp., ticks) and insects such as �eas and lice (Tab. 1). Symptoms of attacks of dangerous ectoparasites may include skin itching, allergic reactions, skin redness, discomfort, the loss of hair, and skin discoloration. Because of the rapid reproduction of parasites, immediate assistance is required for animals attacked by parasitic arthropods, primar- ily to protect the animals against parasite infestation on the whole body and against the destruction of the animal’s organism. �e prevention and protection against the attacks of skin ectoparasites is important, because, by protecting the animals we also protect ourselves against zoonotic diseases. Review of the selected domestic animals and ectoparasites attacking them 1. Dog (Canis familiaris L.) �e dog is the most common domestic animal in Polish homes (Krassowska, 2014), and the oldest domesticated carnivore mammal. It probably derives from the grey A nn a K oc oń , M ag da le na N ow ak -C hm ur a 138 wolf (Canis lupus L.). �e period of taming falls approx. 12 thousand years ago, when the portion of the grey wolf population was approaching human habitation. Initially, man used the help of dogs to hunt and to guard the herds. As a result of more or less conscious selection and crossing, about 400 breeds and varieties of a domestic dog have been grown. �e breeds vary among themselves, with height, body weight, appearance, utility, and colour. �e excellent sense of smell, hearing, good olfac- tory and auditory memory, the ability of spatial orientation, intelligence, and the ease of attachment to people facilitate its education and training. Demodex canis Leydig – dog demodex (Appendix 1 – Fig. 1a), is a widespread animal parasite observed in nearly 80% of dogs. It occurs in the hair follicles and se- baceous glands, and sometimes also in the lymph nodes, internal organs, and blood. It Tab. 1. Skin ectoparasites of domestic animals No. Parasite species Host Parasitic disease/carrier (vector) of the diseases 1. Demodex canis Canis familiaris demodicosis 2. Sarcoptes scabiei var. canis C. familiaris sarcoptosis 3. Ctenocephalides canis C. familiaris ktenocefalidosis/vector 4. Linognathus setosus C. familiaris lice 5. Cheyletiella yasguri C. familiaris cheyletiellosis 6. Trichodectes canis Canis familiaris, Felis catus malofagosis 7. Ixodes ricinus C. familiaris, F. catus vector 8. I. crenulatus C. familiaris, F. catus vector 9. I.hexagonus C. familiaris, F. catus vector 10. I. rugicollis C. familiaris, F. catus vector 11. Dermacentor reticulatus C. familiaris, F. catus vector 12. Otodectes cynotis C. familiaris, F. catus otodectomy 13. Notoedres cati Felis catus sarcoptosis 14. Demodex cati F. catus demodicosis 15. Cheyletiella blakei F. catus cheyletiellosis 16. Ctenocephalides felis F. catus ktenocefalidosis 17. Felicola subrostratus F. catus malofagosis 18. Dubininia melopsittaci Melopsittacus undulatus --------------------- 19. Sideroferus lunula M. undulatus --------------------- 20. Neopsittaconirmus gracilis M. undulatus malofagosis 21. Trixacarus caviae Cavia porcellus --------------------- 22. Chirodiscoides caviae C. porcellus --------------------- 23. Gliricola porcelli C. porcellus malofagosis 24. Demodex cavinae C. porcellus demodicosis 25. D. criceti Mesocricetus auratus demodicosis 26. D. aurati M. auratus demodicosis 27. D. �agellurus Mus musculus demodicosis 28. D. musculi M. musculus demodicosis S kin ectoparasites of dom estic anim als 139 occurs naturally in small amounts in most dogs, and it usually does not cause clinical symptoms. Occasionally, the mite can cause a disease called mange, and then lead to one of the most onerous skin problems encountered in veterinary practice (Gauguere, 1994). �e infection with demodex already takes place in the �rst days of the life of puppies, most o�en during feeding, or being licked by the mother. In older dogs, the infection may take place through direct contact. Human infection is very rare. Factors a�ecting the mange in animals at a young age include the occurrence of metabol- ic disorders, malnutrition, systemic infections and cancers, diabetes, as well as a de- creased resistance to natural factors, and stress. �e most common symptoms of the attack of D. canis are skin peeling, the appearance of purulent pimples coming out of the hair follicles, increased pigmentation, thinning of the hair, and red erythematous spots. Skin lesions appear mainly around the head, muzzle, lips, ears, torso, and less frequently in the paw area, and if so, on the front paws. Heavy and generalised mange may lead to the death of the animal (Gauguere, 1994). Sarcoptes scabiei L. var. canis – dog itching mites (Appendix 1 – Fig. 1b) causes a disease called sarcoptosis. Mites attack many mammals, including humans and most livestock and domestic animals. Dog scabies is very infectious among dogs. �e most vulnerable are dogs living in poor environmental conditions or staying in larger concentrations, e.g., in shelters or animal hotels with poor maintenance standards. Mites can survive up to two weeks in the host, so the transmission does not require physical contact with other infected animals, because they are passively transmitted in close contact with the host. �is parasite spends all his life on the same host. Dogs may pick up mites from the nearest environment. S. scabiei does not have external vectors (insects, worms, birds), which carry these mites, as is the case with many other ectoparasites. Mites burrow tunnels under the skin. �eir sa- liva has strong digestive enzymes, which dissolve the skin tissues, and they do not suck blood. Adult females lay their eggs in subcutaneous tunnels, which hatch with- in a few days. Dog scabies will last only a few days without the host. Damages caused by parasites may be signi�cant. �e tunnels cause skin irritation, which increases the allergic reactions to saliva and faeces excretion of the mites. Pimples and lumps grow on the infected skin, the animal’s fur is brittle, and the skin becomes bald and hard, which results in the formation of skin folds. �e initial symptoms of the mite infection include redness and small balding areas near the lips, eyes, ankles or el- bows, and on the periphery of the ears, where the skin is thin, which then spread to the rest of the body, most o�en covering the elbows, armpits, chest and abdomen of the animal (Klockiewicz, 2003). Dogs infected with S. scabiei su�er from severe itching, shaking their heads, o�en lick the infected parts of their body, vigorously scratch their head, ears, and they rub against objects (trees, furniture, etc.) which sometimes leads to self-mutilation. A nn a K oc oń , M ag da le na N ow ak -C hm ur a 140 Untreated disease causes the destruction of the body and may lead to the death of the animal (Klockiewicz, 2003). Ctenocephalides canis Curtis – dog �ea (Appendix 1 – Fig. 1c) is an external parasite, cosmopolitan, whose main hosts most o�en include dogs (C. familiaris), foxes (Vulpes vulpes L.), and grey wolves (C. lupus). �ese �eas can also parasitize humans, cats, and other mammals (Sandner, 1976). Eggs laid by the female �eas are most o�en found in the animal’s litter. In neglected, sick dogs, the eggs can be laid directly on the skin. �is insect can transmit the plague, endemic dandelion, as well as be the intermediate host of �ea tapeworm (Dipylidium caninum (L.) Leuckart) and the vector of roundworm larvae Diro�laria immitis Leidy. Infestation with �eas, called ktenocefalidosis, results in animal anxiety, itching caused by the irritating secretions introduced into small wounds along with saliva. Strong itching o�en causes scratching and rubbing of the dogs against various objects, leading to secondary skin lesions, particularly in such areas of the body like the head, neck and tail (Stefański, 1968). �is constant scratching and biting of the skin can cause the dogs skin to become red with in�ammation, and the dog can also lose hair. Dog �eas can cause allergic dermatitis in dogs allergic to the saliva of these insects. In this case, the above-mentioned symptoms are more pronounced. �ese ectoparasites can also result in the animal’s anaemia, when �eas suck up a very large amount of blood in young, elderly, or sick individuals (Patyk, 1978). Fleas occur in a variety of environments, and they rapidly spread to another host by leaping, so it is important to take care of the hygiene of your animal and your own and to use specialist �ea- �ghting preparations. Linognathus setosus Olters – dog louse (Appendix 1 – Fig. 1d) is a cosmopolitan ectoparasite, and it causes a disease called pediculosis. It infests the hairy scalp, ears, neck, back, and near the root of the tail, spreading to the whole body in the case of a severe infestation. Nits, lice eggs, are �xed by the female with the so-called cement, at the base of the hair, usually visible to the naked eye with a bigger number of eggs. Most of the time, the louse is a practically still animal (Sadzikowski, Gundłach, 2004). Dog lice are not common in clean, healthy, well fed, and maintained accompanying dogs. However, it o�en attacks weakened, old, exhausted, and malnourished animals. Attacked dogs are anxious, are itching, and o�en scratching, which leads to intense licking, rubbing, and biting of the infected areas. �e animal’s fur becomes rough and the skin is reddened, which can lead to dermatitis. Infestation with lice may lead to anaemia (Blagburn et al., 1981). Unlike �eas, lice do not jump from one dog to another, but they can move from one host to another through direct contact with the infected dog, e.g., in the animal shelter, in parks, or in other places with a lot of dogs. Due to the fact that lice cannot survive a long time outside the host, they cannot be found freely in the S kin ectoparasites of dom estic anim als 141 environment, which distinguishes them from, e.g., �eas and ticks. Infected dogs can be quickly and easily cured with specialised insecticides. Cheyletiella yasguri Smiley – cosmopolitan mite (Appendix 1 – Fig. 1e), Cheyletiella spp. is responsible for causing the skin disease called cheyletiellosis, which, due to its symptoms, is o�en called ‘walking dandru� ’. �e name ‘walking dandru� ’ comes from the dynamically moving mites in search of food between the exfoliated skin in which they move, thus making the skin move. �ese ectoparasites live on the skin surface and feed on keratin, the main structural skin protein, exfoliated skin, hair, and skin secretions. �ey periodically attach themselves to the skin of the host, which they pierce with mandibles and suck out the exudates coming out from the skin micro-damages (Bronswijk, Kreek, 1976). Cheyletiella spp. are absolutely bound to their host, and they are not likely to survive outside their host in the environment. �ese mites can be transmitted between di�erent animal species, including humans, and in addition, some animals (mainly rabbits and cats). �e infection usually has a direct character by rubbing, licking the fur, sleeping or playing together. �erefore, all dogs can be the potential source of threat to each dog, but also other domestic animals (mainly cats and rabbits), as well as humans. �ese mites have been found on insects bigger than themselves with a parasitic lifestyle, e.g., on �eas, mice, and �ies, which is important for the spread of Cheyletiella spp. among various mammals, including dogs. In very few cases, infections may also occur through indirect contact (shared blankets, toys, towels, etc.). �e risk of infection increases in large groups of dogs, among young animals, or sick ones with a weakened immune system, and among malnourished or poorly nourished individuals. Dogs with long hair are more susceptible to infections. Itching and dandru� are the most characteristic symptoms of the invasion. Sick animals are restless, and they are scratching, licking, shaking, or rubbing against various objects incessantly, which may lead to skin damage, numerous wounds, or thinning hair. Continuous peeling of the epidermis makes the animals look as if they were sprinkled with �our. Dandru� is located in the area of the hindquarters, from where it extends to the back – along the spinal line – to the head. As a result of scratching, the mites spread to other parts of the body, sometimes covering the whole body. Continuous scratching leads to skin eruptions, and lesions may be accompanied by severe seborrhoea and a very unpleasant odour. At an advanced stage, it may involve weight loss, sadness, apathy, fever, and systemic complications (Saevik et al., 2004). Trichodectes canis De Geer – chewing lice, a cosmopolitan parasite of dogs and cats (Appendix 1 – Fig. 1f ). It dwells on the whole body, in the hair, mainly on the neck and head (Stefański, 1968). T. canis is a well-known vector for Dipylidium caninum. Usually, it does not pose serious problems to the host; however, in severe infections, it can be very irritating. Wild, sick, neglected dogs are o�en attacked by this ectoparasite. �is parasite mainly feeds on the �uids produced by the irritated skin. It causes stress A nn a K oc oń , M ag da le na N ow ak -C hm ur a 142 in the host, creates wounds on the surface of the skin, and it also leads to hair loss due to increased scratching, and biting the hair out (Sadzikowski, Gundłach, 2004). Dogs in Poland are also attacked by four tick species from the Ixodidae family: Ixodes ricinus L., I. crenulatus Koch, I. hexagonus Leach, I. rugicollis Schulze et Schlottke and one species from the Amblyommidae family: Dermacentor reticulatus Fabricius. �ere have also been cases of bringing the Rhipicephalus sanguineus Latreille species to Warsaw, a typical dog parasite, which does not occur in the Polish fauna. Moreover, probably also other tick species can attack domestic dogs and cats in Poland (Ixodes persulcatus Schulze, Haemaphysalis punctata Canestrini & Fanzago and H. concinna Koch) (Siuda et al., 2007). Ticks thrive on the hosts body most o�en in places well supplied with blood vessels, on delicate skin, which are di�cult to access for the animals own hygiene: around the snout, behind the ears, on the back of the neck, the neck, on the back and groin, at the base of the tail or around the anus (Siuda, 1993). Ixodes ricinus L. – common tick (Appendix 1 – Fig. 2a) is the most common and widespread species of ticks in Poland that attacks domestic dogs and cats (Siuda et al., 2002, 2004; Nowak-Chmura, Siuda, 2012). �is parasite is the vector and carrier of many pathogens, which are dangerous, due to the fact that they cause serious med- ical and veterinary consequences, the most important ones include, among others, the following: Borrelia burgdorferi, B. garinii, B. afzelli, virus from the Flaviviridae family, Rickettsia slovaca, R. conorii, Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Coxiella burnet- ti, Toxoplasma gondii, �eileria mutans, and others (Nowak-Chmura, Siuda, 2012; Nowak-Chmura, 2013). Narrow lanes, forest paths, tall grass, bushy scrubs, and decid- uous and mixed forests are ideal walking locations for domestic dogs, and thus perfect conditions for I. ricinus to attack the host (Siuda, 1993). I. hexagonus Leach – hedgehog tick (Appendix 1 – Fig. 2b) are nest and burrow parasites, which can also occur in the near vicinity of dog kennels, in close proximity to human homes and settlements (Hillyard, 1996; Siuda, Nowak, 2011). It is probably spread throughout Poland (Michalik et al., 2010; Kilar, 2011; Nowak-Chmura, 2013). �e tick-borne encephalitis virus, Borrelia burgdorferi, B. garinii, B. afzelii, Rickettsia helvetica, Anaplasma phagocytophilum are the main pathogens transmitted by this tick species (Nowak-Chmura, 2013). Another tick species found in domestic dogs in Po- land is Ixodes rugicollis (Siuda et al., 2010). �e natural habitat of I. rugicollis usually includes burrows, mammal hiding places, low humidity habitats (nest and burrow parasite) (Nowak-Chmura, 2013). �e medical and veterinary signi�cance of I. rugi- collis has not been fully investigated. I. crenulatus Koch – is also a nest and burrow species, the parasite dwells in bur- rows of predatory mammals and rodents. It easily adapts to various habitats: lowlands, mountains, subalpine meadows, deserts (Mihalca et al., 2012). �e tick was found in di�erent places throughout Poland (Siuda, 1993; Kadulski, 2007; Siuda et al., 2010). S kin ectoparasites of dom estic anim als 143 �e role of this species in the transmission of infectious diseases is poorly known. It is the carrier of Coxiella burnetii and an important vector of Borrelia burgdorferi s. in areas where I. ricinus is absent (Estrada-Peña et al., 1995). Dermacentor reticulatus Fabricius, meadow tick – the main habitat of this tick species includes wooded, bushy river valleys, streams, swampy mixed forests (Szy- mański, 1986). �ere is a currently widespread coverage of this species in Central Europe and in neighbouring countries (Dautel et al., 2006; Nowak, 2011; Petney et al., 2012). �e largest number of habitats of this tick can be found in the north of Poland, in the areas of north-eastern and eastern Poland (Siuda, 1993; Bogdaszewska, 2004; Kadulski, Izdebska, 2009; Nowak-Chmura, 2013). D. reticulatus is a signi�cant vector of tick-borne pathogens in Europe, the greatest importance is related to the transmis- sion of Babesia canis protozoa, and this is the main etiologic agent of the ‘babesiosis canum’ disease. �is disease can lead to the dysfunctions of many of the host’s body organs. �e outbreaks of this disease have also been documented in Poland (Zygner et al., 2007, 2008; Welc-Falęciak et al., 2009). Domestic dogs should be checked a�er each walk for the presence of ticks, especially around the ears, mouth, eyes, and the whole torso. Proper hygiene should be maintained while removing the feeding ticks. 2. Domestic cat (Felis catus L.) �e domestic cat is the second most common animal accompanying Polish families (Krassowska, 2014), and currently the most popular pet in the world (Driscoll et al., 2009). �is species probably originates from the Nubian cat (Felis silvestris ssp. lybica Forster), and it was domesticated about 9.5 thousand years ago. For a few thousand years, about a hundred breeds of the domestic cat have been bred, varying in hair col- our, length, and size. A large number of domestic cats live alone in towns and villages. Previously, cats were used for killing mice and rats, which were destroying the farmers’ harvests before domestication of cats; in addition, they were taken hunting in order to scare the game (Lasota-Moskalewska, 2005). Otodectes cynotis Hering – scabies (Appendix 1 – Fig. 2c). It infests the external auditory duct of domestic cats, less o�en in dogs. In advanced cases, it can attack other areas of the body: neck, back, loin, and tail. �e infection occurs through direct contact with the sick individual. It is much more common in kittens than adult cats. �e microorganism can also be transferred to humans. Considerable amounts of dark brown, waxy, dry secretions can be observed in the auricle, where these microorganisms accumulate. In the advanced state of the disease, the accumulated grease can clog the auditory canal, which leads to the situation where a cat cannot hear. An untreated invasion can damage the tympanic membrane. Symptoms of scabies, the disease caused by this parasite, is a characteristic strong itching of the ears, during which the cat is shaking its head, scratching its ears and crooking its head, which is A nn a K oc oń , M ag da le na N ow ak -C hm ur a 144 due to the mechanical and chemical tissue irritation by the ectoparasites preying in them. Infection is also accompanied by local allergic reactions, local in�ammation, and severe pruritus. Constant itching forces the animal to continue scratching causing further irritation of the infected areas, thus leading to the aggravation of disease symptoms and mechanical spread of parasites to other body areas. Skin lesions appearing on the skin take the form of localized balding and severely itchy follicular e�orescence (Bowman, 2012). Notoedres cati Hering – feline scabies (Appendix 1 – Fig. 2d). �ese parasites are transmitted directly from a diseased individual to a healthy one; however, sometimes the physical contract is not required, because they can be easily collected in places shared with sick individuals. �ey resemble the Sarcoptes scabiei mites both in terms of construction and behaviour. �e infection o�en covers the animals head and ears, and then it spreads to the neck, back, and other parts of the body. �e skin a�ected by the invasion of itchy mites is wrinkled, with hair loss, o�en with scabs on it. �e symptoms of the feline mite invasion include intense itching, vigorous and continuous scratching, and licking of the infected body parts. From time to time, the Notoedres mites can infect humans, but are unable to complete their development on them (Kotomski, 2000). Demodex cati Hirst – feline demodex (Appendix 1 – Fig. 2e), as in the case of Demodex canis, it may occur as a natural �ora in healthy cats. Skin lesions associated with the invasion of feline demodex tend to be localised on the head, neck, and eyelids, where they cause hair thinning and alopecia. It can also lead to seborrhoea, the formation of lumps, pustules, and skin in�ammation. Mites can also be present in the auditory canals, causing the in�ammation of the middle ear (Dembele, 2000). Cheyletiella blakei Smiley – small mites and ectoparasites of domestic cats. Cheyletiellosis, the disease caused by this microorganism, can be transferred from cats to humans. Cheyletiella yasguri occurring in dogs and C. blakei occurring in cats are absolutely not speci�c to typical hosts. �e presence of mites on the animal’s skin may be tolerated well by them, and excessive peeling of the skin is the only clinical symptom of infestation; however, other animals may develop itching with varying degrees of severity. �e symptoms of a cat being attacked by the mite are similar to the symptoms of domestic dogs being attacked by C. yasguri (Appendix 1 – Fig. 2f ) (Fagasiński, 2000). Ctenocephalides felis Bouche – feline �ea (Appendix 1 – Fig. 2g). A cosmopolitan parasite, in addition to a domestic cat, it can also attack humans, domestic dogs and other domestic and wild animals. Symptoms of cat infestation by �eas are the same as in the case of C. canis infestation of domestic dogs, i.e. severe itching that causes constant scratching and rubbing at various objects, which leads to skin lesions in areas of the body, such as the head, neck, and tail areas. �e animal’s skin becomes red, o�en balding (Furmaga, 1985). S kin ectoparasites of dom estic anim als 145 Felicola subrostratus Nitzch in Burmeister – a lice species, cosmopolitan, occurring all over the body in the hair (Appendix 1 – Fig. 2h). It is found in older or sick cats, especially in longhaired breeds. In case of invasion, the cat is constantly scratching, biting the areas with the itchy skin, rubbing, and is restless. �e longer dwelling time of the lice on the body and their increasing number causes the skin redness, numerous scratches on the skin, and the loss of hair by the animal (Kotomski, 2000). Domestic cats are attacked mainly by four tick species: Ixodes ricinus, I. crenulatus, I. hexagonus and I. rugicollis (Siuda et al., 2007; Kocoń et al., 2017), which were described above for the domestic dog. 3. Budgerigar (Melopsittacus undulates Shaw) Budgerigar has been the most popular parrot occurring in breeds all over the world for over 200 years. �e main places where the parrots occur include steppes overgrown with various species of grass. It is a nomad species, if the food runs out in the place where it lives, it moves to another area. Parrots are relatively easy to tame, especially because they are usually accompanied by people from birth. �ey �rst appeared in Eu- rope in 1840, in England, and for the next 20 years, they have spread in breeding in other parts of Europe. �e essential food for budgerigars includes the properly selected grain mix, including millet, canary grass, Senegal millet, Japanese millet, oats, and a small amount of oil seeds. In 2012, 28 varieties of parrots were described (Biel�eld, 1997). Dubininia melopsittaci Atyeo & Gaud and Sideroferus lunula Robin & Mégnin – acari, which do not normally threaten their hosts, look like mites. Bigger invasions take place as a result of stress, poor nutrition, and inappropriate living conditions of the parrots, as well as due to the reduced animal immunity. Under such conditions, these parasites reproduce in excess, which causes skin irritation for the birds, but they do not lead to feathers falling out. It is believed that D. melopsittaci (Appendix 1 – Fig. 3a) is more pathogenic than S. lunula (Appendix 1 – Fig 3b). S. lunula is usually located on large wing feathers and tail, while D. melopsittaci on smaller ones. �ese species are located in di�erent places and do not compete with each other. �ey spent all their lives dwelling among the host’s feathers. �ey move very well between the feathers, thanks to ‘sticking’ to the feathers, so they do not fall o� during the �ight. �ey feed mainly on the feathers with the glandular secretions, exfoliate skin, nd the feather residues. Parasites pass from one bird to another during direct contact with the infected animal, especially during breeding, from adults to chicks. �e symptoms of invasion of these mites are scratching by the parrots and plucking feathers. Changes in the appearance of the feathers are visible on the underside of the feather, where these parasites dwell, and the feathers appear greasy, stained, and devoid of natural glow. In budgerigars, apathy, anorexia, and the destruction of the body may occur during very large invasions. Mite allergens can cause irritation of the skin and mucous membrane A nn a K oc oń , M ag da le na N ow ak -C hm ur a 146 in humans (Atyeo, Gaud, 1987). Neopsittaconirmus gracilis Guimaraes – lice, one of the feather-eating species (Appendix 1 – Fig. 3c). �is parasite feeds on the feather residues, exfoliated epider- mis, and adult lice, as well as larvae, can actively collect blood. �e invasion is usu- ally asymptomatic, as a result of a decrease in immunity, and bad conditions. Mass infestation causes clinical symptoms, such as bird anxiety and weakness of the body. �e infection takes place through direct contact of birds, but sometimes they can get infected in the nest. �ey also nibble on the base of the feathers, causing bleeding damage to the skin, and scabs form in the lesion areas. �ey can cause in�ammation and allergic reactions on the skin, which o�en manifests as pruritus. Additional skin damage occurs when birds are pecking the itchy spots. Symptoms of feather-eaters feeding on the feathers (�ag loss, �ag holes) and eggs laid by them along the feather can be seen with the naked eye. However, the visible losses in the �ags do not always denote the presence of feather-eaters, and they can be the e�ect of mechanical dam- age. �ese lice are most o�en found on the back of the head and neck; however, during larger invasions, they cover the whole body (Sychra, 2005). 4. Guinea pig (Cavia porcellus L.) Cavy is a rodent species, commonly known as guinea pigs, which were domesticated by South American Indians, who used them for many purposes, including culinary, ritual, and folk medicine. It came to Europe as a hobby animal in the XVIth and XIXth centuries, and it was used as a laboratory animal. �e guinea pig is a herbivore, and it is well suited for hobby breeding. C. porcellus should not be kept alone, because it is a social animal, and it maintains close relations with the herd members. Currently, there are many breeds and colour varieties of this rodent. �ese breeds are di�erent in terms of structure and length of hair (Beck, 2014). Trixacarus caviae Fain, Hovell & Hyatt – mites that move directly from the infect- ed animal to another one, and they rarely leave their host. In guinea pigs, they cause scratches, biting of the skin, hair loss, and in severe cases, seizures (Appendix 1 – Fig. 3d). With severe infection, they can be life threatening due to the lack of food, severe pain, and discomfort. �ey are not transferred to humans. In healthy animals, the mites can be dormant for several months or years, becoming a problem in pregnant, sick, stressed, and older guinea pigs (Mederle, Indre, 2009). Chirodiscoides caviae Hirst (Appendix 1 – Fig. 3e), mites that cause minor dis- comfort, even if they are present in large quantities, do not show signs of harmful e�ects on the rodent. Sometimes, they are visible to the naked eye on the animal’s fur, attached to the hair. �ey do not cause skin irritation, in some cases, they can cause itching (d’Ovidio, Santoro, 2014). Gliricola porcelli Schrank (Appendix 1 – Fig. 3f ) are lice that most o�en infest the S kin ectoparasites of dom estic anim als 147 guinea pig. Lice are visible to the naked eye in the rodent’s hair, and they feed on hair and exfoliated skin. Because of their high species speci�city, they do not pose a threat to other animals or humans. �e infection occurs through direct contact with a sick animal. �e course of the disease may be asymptomatic. With more severe invasions, the animals experience pruritus, and they rub against objects or scratch the itchy ar- eas, which leads to the formation of wounds. However, we usually observe only the deterioration in the quality of the coat, with its thinning and seborrhoea. With severe, long-lasting, and untreated invasions, the licheni�cation of the skin around the ears can be observed, as well as seizures (Przyjałkowki, 1977). Demodex caviae Bacigalupo (Appendix 1 – Fig. 3g), demodex attacking guinea pigs. �e symptoms of the occurrence of D. caviae are the same as in the case of D. canis and D. cati described above (Hawkins, Bishop, 2012). 5. Golden hamster (Mesocricetus auratus Waterhouse) It is the most well-know hamster species, which is a rodent, bred as a pet. �is species was �rst described in 1839 by the British zoologist, Waterhouse. M. auratus did not stand out with special features, the interest in it was not high, and over time, it was observed less and less, until �nally it was considered to be the extinct species. In 1930, professor Aharoni from the University of Jerusalem, who conducted exca- vations in Syria, found a female with young ones. �ree individuals from this family (2 females and a male) went to England, where zoologists created favourable condi- tions for them to live and breed, and the hamster population grew rapidly. �e �rst hamsters were imported to Poland in 1950 from France. �e rodent feeds mainly on plant food (Stromenger, 1995). Demodex criceti Nutting & Rauch and D. aurati Nutting – demodex are the most commonly ectoparasite recognised in hamsters. D. criceti and D. aurati initially do not cause any clinical symptoms on the skin, and they usually feed naturally on the animal. D. criceti, is a smaller mite (Appendix 1 – Fig. 4a) than D. aurati (Appendix 1 – Fig. 4b), while D. aurati is more pathogenic. �e symptoms of demodex invasion are rough coat, skin in�ammation, balding, mainly on the back. �e sick, old, and undernourished animals are attacked most o�en (Karaer et al., 2009). 6. House mouse (Mus musculus L.) �e house mouse is a species of small mammals, which is synanthropic and cosmo- politan. It probably derives from mice inhabiting prairies and semi-desert areas. Cur- rently, it can be found wherever humans live, and it is omnivorous. �anks to high reproduction and a lack of high breeding requirements, mice are willingly used as laboratory animals and are also grown at homes. It has very high adaptability capabil- ities (Zientek, 2015). A nn a K oc oń , M ag da le na N ow ak -C hm ur a 148 Demodex �agellurus Bukva and D. musculi Oudemans – demodex is most com- mon in mice. D. �agellurus (Appendix 1 – Fig. 4c) occurs mainly in the Czech Re- public. In Poland, the species has been found in the northern and central parts of the country, but there is no detailed information about this parasite. D. �agellurus is one of the largest known mites in mice, and it is mainly found near the genital area. �ey spread easily between hosts. In some populations, they show a high degree of rodent infestation. No symptoms of the diseases were noted for these demodex on the ani- mals’ skin. D. musculi is associated with the areas of the whole body and it has also been observed in wild populations of mice and laboratory mice (Izdebska, Rolbiecki, 2015). Conclusions and recommendations External parasites are important factors in the health of domestic animals and hu- mans. �ey cause skin damage and pathological reactions from the immune system. �ey also play a role as a source of many types of pathogenic agents and can have negative e�ects on the bonds that exist between humans and animals. Other negative e�ects of parasitic infestation are skin lesions leading to secondary bacterial or fungal infections, as well as dermatitis. Under the in�uence of contact with saliva of the ec- toparasites, allergic reactions may occur. �e most important of which is the allergic �ea dermatitis (Sadzikowski, Gundłach, 2004). Due to the transfer of pathogens by ectoparasites that cause diseases in many cases with more clinical relevance than the parasite infestation itself, caring for our animals is particularly important. When deciding on a pet, we should be aware of such dangers and carefully combat the dangerous ectoparasites to keep our pets in good health and �tness. Organisms with an invasion of external parasites can be a source of infestation for their owners or other animals living in the same area, which can be a huge problem. �e direct infestation of the host by ectoparasites may not be limited only to the skin level, but it can also lead to anaemia in the case of arthropods that suck blood in large quantities. In the years 2012–2014, the presence of ectoparasites collected from domestic an- imals was studied in cooperation with veterinary clinics in the Silesian and Lesser Poland voivodeships. Skin and hair samples were collected from 77 infected hosts (62 from Lesser Poland, 15 from Silesia). �e following species dominated among the mites: Otodectes cynotis var. cati (85.6%), O. cynotis var. canis (4.4%), Demodex canis (5.2%), Cheyletiella yasguri (3.5%). �e presence of the following was found in smaller numbers: Sarcoptes scabiei var. canis (0.8%), Notoedres cati (0.2%), Chirodis- coides caviae (0.1%). Out of the external insects, the majority of rat lice were collected – Polyplax spinulosa (92.9%), Gliricola porcelli (3.1%), Columbicola columbae (2.2%), Ctenocephalides felis (1.3%), and Ceratophyllus gallinae (0.4%) (Pawełczyk et al., 2016). �e studies on demodecid mites found that the most common species attacking S kin ectoparasites of dom estic anim als 149 domestic dogs is Demodex canis; moreover, two other species can be found in dogs: D. injai occurring in adult sick dogs with hypothyroidism and Cushings syndrome, and D. cornei, which o�en causes seborrheic dermatitis. All of these species occur in Poland. �ree species of demodex were also observed in cats: the most common D. cati, D. gatoi causing highly infectious lesions, described at homes, where a lot of cats live together, and D. felis. Two species were found in the golden hamsters – D. criceti and D. aurati, and in mice – D. arvicolae found in the skin of the eyelids and around the eyes, and D. �agellurus (Jańczak et al., 2017). In the years 2003–2007, 382 specimens of bred reptiles imported to Poland were studied, belonging to the species: Testudo sp., Iguana sp., Varanus sp., Gongylophis sp., Python sp., Spalerosophis sp., and Psammophis sp., from which the ticks were collected. �e most infected reptiles came from Ghana (Africa) and these were Varanus exan- thematicus Boso and Python regius Shaw. During the entire study, 2104 tick specimens were collected of the Amblyomma genus (detected in Poland for the �rst time): Ambly- omma exornatum Koch, A. �avomaculatum Lucas, A. latum Koch (most abundant), A. nuttalli Dönitz, A. quadricavum Schulze, A. transversale Lucas, A. varanense Supino, Amblyomma spp. and Hyalomma: H. aegyptium L. Studies were also performed in terms for the presence of pathogens. In two ticks, Ambylomma �avomaculatum, the presence of Anaplasma phagocytophilum Dumler et al. was detected (Nowak, 2010). Frequent weather changes, frequent journeys, frequent changes in the locations of the animals probably a�ect the existing epizootic situation of some external parasites and the pathogens they carry, and they can cause the spread of these organisms to new areas. �is may lead to an increase in the incidence of rare parasitic diseases. Domestic animals, which accompany us on a daily basis, not only play a positive role, but also a negative one, because they are a perfect source for carrying numerous ectoparasites. We should pay special attention to keeping our animals healthy by protecting them against attacks by dangerous parasites. In the case of the ectoparasite invasion, we should prevent the widespread infestation as soon as possible. By taking care of the health of our animals, we also care for our own health. References Atyeo, W.T., Gaud, J. (1987). 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Demodex canis – a (Source: http://people.upei.ca/), Sarcoptes scabiei var. canis – b (Source: https:// www.vectorbase.org), Ctenocephalides canis – c (Source: http://entnemdept.u�.edu), Lingonathus setosus – d (Source: https://veteriankey.com), Cheyletiella yasguri – e (Source: http://www.swiatczarnegoteriera. republika.pl), Trichodectes canis – f (Source: http://atlas.sund.ku.dk) S kin ectoparasites of dom estic anim als 155 Fig. 2. Satiated Ixodes ricinus female – a, female I. hexagonus – b (Photos from the collection of the Department of the Invertebrate Zoology and Parasitology), Otodectes cynotis – c (Source: http://www. swiatczarnegoteriera.republika.pl/), Notoedres cati – d (Source: https://www.esccap.fr/), Demodex cati – e (Source: https://www.cliniciansbrief.com), Cheyletiellosis in cats – f (Source:http://vetbook.org), Ctenocephalides felis – g (Source: https://pl.pinterest.com), Felicola subrostratus – h (Source: http:// mites-and-parasites.org) A nn a K oc oń , M ag da le na N ow ak -C hm ur a 156 Fig. 3. Dubininia melopsittaci – a (Source: http://www.federmilben.de), Sideroferus lunula – b (Source: http://www.federmilben.de), Feather-easting on feather �ags – c (Source: http://www.gole- biepocztowe.eu), �e results of the occurence of Trixacarus caviae – d (Source: http://www.guinealynx. info), Chirodiscoides caviae – e (Source: https://www.esccap.fr), Gliricola porcelli – f (Source: https://www. esccap.fr), Demodex cavinae – g (Source: http://www.happy-knu�els.de) S kin ectoparasites of dom estic anim als 157 Fig. 4. Demodex criceti – a, D. aurati – b, D. �agellurus – c (Source: https://www.researchgate.net) A nn a K oc oń , M ag da le na N ow ak -C hm ur a 158 Ektopasożyty skórne zwierząt domowych Streszczenie Zwierzęta towarzyszące ludziom, w tym zwierzęta domowe odgrywają ważną rolę w otaczającym nas środo- wisku. Jednak większość z nich może być narażona na kontakt z gatunkami pasożytniczych roztoczy i owa- dów, o  dużym znaczeniu medycznym i  weterynaryjnym, stanowiących zagrożenie dla zdrowia zarówno zwierząt, jak i ludzi. Do najbardziej rozpowszechnionych ektopasożytów skórnych zwierząt należą: Demo- dex canis, D. cati, D. criceti, D. aurati, D. caviae, Otodectes cynotis, Sarcoptes scabiei, Cheyletiella yasguri, C. blakei, Chirodiscoides caviae, Ctenocephalides canis, C. felis, Trichodectes canis, Linognathus setosus, Felico- la subrostratus, Notoedres cati, Dubininia melopsittaci, Sideroferus lunula, Neopsittaconirmus gracilis, Gliricola porcelli, Trixacarus caviae, Ixodes ricinus, I. hexagonus, I. crenulatus, I. rugicollis i  Dermacentor reticulatus. Różne gatunki pasożytów zewnętrznych, które mogą być również przenoszone na ludzi są od- powiedzialne za najczęstsze choroby pasożytnicze skóry zwierząt: sarkoptozę, otodektozę, ktenocefalidozę, wszawicę, wszołowicę, demodekozę i chejletielozę. Ponadto kleszcze z rodziny Ixodidae odgrywają znaczą- cą rolę w przenoszeniu chorób, do najważniejszych z nich należą: borelioza z Lyme, babeszjoza, riketsjo- za, erlichioza, tularemia. W  niniejszej pracy przedstawiono najczęściej występujące ektopasożyty skórne u zwierząt domowych takich jak: pies domowy (Canis familiaris), kot domowy (Felis catus), papużka falista (Melopsittacus undulatus), kawia domowa (Cavia porcellus ), chomik syryjski (Mesocricetus auratus), mysz domowa (Mus musculus). Key words: demodex, ectoparasites, �eas, lice, mites, pets, ticks Received on: [2017.09.17] Accepted on: [2017.11.12]