Rabbits are some of the nation’s most beloved pets. With their inquisitive nature and playful mannerisms it is no surprise why. What can be a surprise however is watching their fur move on its own, almost like the dandruff has legs! So what causes this and is it something to worry about?

Table of contents

What is dandruff?

Dandruff is a skin condition characterised by flaky or old skin that sits on the surface of the skin and in between the fur. The skin has become flaky due to irritation. There are a number of things that can cause irritation of the skin resulting in dandruff.

What can cause dandruff in rabbits?

A number of different things can cause dandruff in rabbits, a few examples are:

Parasites 

Skin mites can cause irritation to the skin of rabbits which results in crusting, scaling and flaking of the skin leading to the appearance of dandruff. 

Infection

Bacterial and/or fungal infection in the skin of rabbits can lead to irritation of the skin which can cause flaky skin and crusting.

Allergies

Allergies can cause rabbits to scratch at their skin. The act of scratching irritates the surface of the skin again leading to dry flaking skin which appears as dandruff

So why is my rabbit’s dandruff moving?

One of the main causes of dandruff in rabbits is Cheyletiellosis, this is an infection of the rabbits skin with the common rabbit mite also known as Cheyletiella parasitovorax. Cheyletiella, the common rabbit mite, is a highly contagious non-burrowing mite that can move from rabbit to rabbit easily. 

Cheyletiella infections in rabbits are often nicknamed ‘walking dandruff’ because the mite crawls across the skin of the rabbit and its pale colouration makes it appear that the dandruff itself is moving. As the mite causes irritation to the skin it also causes dandruff. So as it moves beneath the flaky skin it can literally make the dandruff walk! 

What are the common signs of Cheyletiellosis in rabbits?

Infected rabbits will often be itchy and you may see hair loss in the shoulder or lower back region. The most common sign is lots of dandruff over the lower back and shoulders. And you may see this moving around as the mites move across the rabbit’s skin. Infection can be more common in young or old rabbits, or rabbits who have other underlying conditions such as arthritis which means they cannot groom as well, but the infection can occur in any rabbit and its important to remember it is highly contagious, so if one of your rabbits is infected its highly likely any cohabiting rabbits will be too.

How is Cheyletiellosis diagnosed in rabbits?

To find out if your rabbit is infected with the common rabbit mite your rabbit will need to be seen by a veterinarian. The veterinarian will examine your rabbit and take samples such as skin scrapes, hair plucks and tape strips of the fur. These can be sent to a laboratory for examination or in some cases these can be examined under a microscope in the practice. The veterinarian will be looking for the presence of the mite in the samples. In some cases further tests may be needed if your veterinarian suspects your rabbit may have other underlying issues. 

Can Cheyletiellosis be treated in rabbits?

Yes! The common rabbit mite is very treatable. But it’s important your rabbit is seen by a vet as soon as you notice an issue with their skin so they can be diagnosed and treated without delay. As mentioned before, rabbits with other underlying health conditions can be more prone to the condition. So it’s important that your rabbit has a full health check. Infection with the common rabbit mite is not pleasant for rabbits as it causes itching and skin irritation. So it is important the infection is treated as soon as possible.

Summary:

  • Dandruff in rabbits is common and can be caused by a number of conditions affecting the skin
  • ‘Walking dandruff’ is caused by the common rabbit mite (Cheyletiella parasitovorax) and is the most common type of dandruff seen in rabbits 
  • If you suspect your rabbit has dandruff it is important they are examined by a veterinarian without delay so they can be assessed and treated as soon as possible

Further reading: