Further Evaluation of Field Efficacy of Scabicur® Lotion in the Control of Mange and Ectoparasites in Domestic Animals in Nigeria

Abstract

The field efficacy of topical application of Scabicur® lotion was further assessed in 558 domestic animals comprising of Cattle, Sheep, Goats and Pigs naturally infested with mange and ectoparasites. The study was performed to answer the research question whether Scabicur® lotion preparation can be a cheaper alternative against sarcoptic manage and ectoparasites in livestock. Evaluations included physical examination for clinical signs of Sarcoptes scabiei infestations, examination of samples of skin scrapings for determination of mites(s) pre and post-treatment, collection and identification of ectoparasites (Ixodid ticks) burden. Affected animals were treated tropically for 7 days consecutively using depending on size 10-20mls of 0.5% w/v of Scabcur® lotion per animal. The treatment resulted in clinical improvement within 21 days post initial topical application. There was complete disappearance of signs of scabies such as pruritis, alopecia, scratching on the wall and disappearance of scabs or ticks in randomly selected animals in the herds. The ticks were dead after 7 days of topical application. Scabicur® lotion can be used as an adjunct in the management and control of scabies, ectoparasitism and other related maladies in domestic animals since the current scabicides and acaricides are relatively expensive, toxic to animals as well as constituting environmental hazards.