Miticidal efficacy of an emulsion containing 10% neem (Azadirachtaindica) oil for control of Psoroptes ovis in naturally infested rabbits

Fernandes J.I., Verocai G.G., Ribeiro F.A., Melo R.M.P.S., Correia T.R., Veiga C.C.P., Vieira V.P.C. & Scott F.B. 2012. [Miticidal efficacy of an emulsion containing 10% neem (Azadirachtaindica) oil for control of Psoroptes ovis in naturally infested rabbits.] Eficacia acaricida de uma emulsao contendo 10% de oleo de Nim (Azadirachta indica) no controle de Psoroptes ovis em coelhos naturalmente infestados. Pesquisa Veterinaria Brasileira 32(12):1253-1256. Faculdade de Medicina Veterinaria, Universidade Federal do Para, BR-316 Km 61, Castanhal, PA 68740-970. Brazil. E-mail: vetjulio@yahoo.com.br The objective of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of an emulsion containing 10% of neem (Azadirachta indica) oil on the control of Psoroptes ovis in naturally infested rabbits. Twelve rabbits were randomly divided in two groups of six animals. The control group remained without treatment; while animals in the other group were treated with the 10% neem extract formulation by spraying both ears daily for seven consecutive days. The animals were evaluated daily for the presence of adverse effects. Material from ears all animals was collected on days +3, +7, +14, +21, +28 and +35, and evaluated for the presence of living mites. Animals from control group presented mites in both ears along all days of observation. The treated group presented an efficacy of 41.7% on day +3 and 100% from day +7 to +35. The product containing 10% neem oil has demonstrated to be effective for the treatment of psoroptic mange on rabbits. However, treated animals presented dermatological reaction such as alopecia and hyperemia at the site of application, varying from low to medium severity.