-----Original Message-----
>Just a note from a lurker who reads by the archive ...
>
>I've heard of at least one case where a breeder who had mites
>had SEVERAL animals die. In fact, partially because of that,
>she quit breeding. I've heard another person state (several
>months ago) that also these mites can kill.
There is another reason for the deaths. When I get deaths I often
perform a necropsy on the corpse. I have so many animals I need
to know the cause of death.
Any time I have had mites and had deaths I have been able to find
another cause for death. Sometimes it is something that I missed
during basic care and the animal goes 'down' and expires (losing
the front teeth so it can't eat well, something that triggered a sudden
and severe case of diahrrea, etc)
Being heavily infested when the animal is ill certainly does not
help it. And can worsen the illness and hasten demise.
[yes I have access to someone that can do cultures for me if
I collect the samples]
IF anyone has CLINICAL proof that mites can kill, please forward
me the information.
I have heard and had proof of blood-feasting parasites weakening
a host animal and worsening any other condition; and death only
if the parasites were capable of harboring and transmitting other
diseases (i.e., the mosquito and the tick).
>I personally had a mite infestation about a year ago. I didn't lose any of
>my gerbils, but it was an experience I don't want to repeat. A couple of
>sprays, of everything, a week apart, did the trick.
>
>So ... if you see any, treat promptly ... EVERYTHING as has been suggested.
>
>Emily
Yes. One can't be too paranoid when trying to eradicate the mites.
I have the experience to back that up! <scratch scratch>
>--
>E & K's Critters
>Kelly, American Eskimo Dog
>3 gerbils and 13 mice + the baby mice
>http://www.gurlpages.com/other/emandkel/index.html
Deb
Rebel's Rodent Ranch
