Parasitological Diagnosis and Therapeutic Management of Clinical Notoedric Mange in Rattus rattus from Bikaner, Rajasthan, India: A Case Report

Abstract

Aims: To document the clinical presentation, parasitological diagnosis and therapeutic management of naturally occurring notoedric mange in three Rattus rattus presented in Bikaner, Rajasthan, India. Presentation of Case: Three Rattus rattus were presented to the Veterinary Clinic, College of Veterinary and Animal Science, Bikaner, Rajasthan, in April 2026 with pruritus, alopecia, hyperkeratosis and thick white crusts, predominantly affecting the external ears and adjacent facial skin. Individual skin scrapings were processed with 10% potassium hydroxide and examined by light microscopy. Mites were demonstrated in all three animals and were morphologically compatible with Notoedres spp. based on the observable sarcoptiform morphology and diagnostic features. No molecular confirmation was undertaken. Treatment comprised ivermectin (Hitek 0.08%) administered through drinking water, together with enrofloxacin-containing oral liquid, nutritional support and topical wound care. Clinical improvement was observed in all three rats. Discussion: The clinical distribution and microscopic findings were consistent with notoedric mange described in rats and other rodents. Direct examination of skin scrapings remains a practical diagnostic approach where molecular testing is unavailable. The observed clinical response supports the usefulness of an ivermectin-based regimen with supportive management; however, the absence of post-treatment skin-scraping demonstration of the incriminating parasites and the absence of individual water-intake measurements prevent confirmation of parasitological cure or calculation of an individual mg/kg ivermectin dose. Conclusion: These cases highlight the value of recognising characteristic ear and facial lesions and confirming infestation by direct parasitological examination. The report provides practical clinical information on the management of naturally occurring notoedric mange in Rattus rattus.