Gastrointestinal Parasites, Ectoparasites, and Fungi in Rabbits Attending Clinical Consultations and from Private Owners and Breeders in Portugal

Few studies have investigated gastrointestinal (GI) and external parasites, as well as environmental fungi, in rabbits using a One Health approach. Between September 2023-May 2024, fecal, hair and skin scraping samples were collected from 72 rabbits that attended clinical consultations and from private owners and breeders in Portugal. Diagnostic techniques included Mini-FLOTAC, direct immunofluorescence antibody, and the analysis of the virulence profile of fur fungi. A total of 58% of the rabbits were positive for GI parasites, namely <i>Eimeria</i> spp. (45%), <i>Cryptosporidium</i> spp. (32%), <i>Trichostrongylus retortaeformis</i> (17%), <i>Passalurus ambiguus</i> (13%), <i>Graphidium strigosum</i> (13%), and <i>Giardia</i> spp. (9%), with only 12% of the infected animals showing clinical signs (diarrhea). In addition, 10% of the animals were positive for <i>Cheyletiella</i> sp. infestations. Environmental fungi of the genera <i>Penicillium</i>, <i>Rhizopus</i>, and <i>Scopulariopsis</i> were isolated from 7% of these animals, with the <i>Scopulariopsis</i> sp. isolate S1 testing positive for proteinase, lecithinase, and gelatinase activities. Frequent sanitization and regular deworming emerged as essential factors to minimize parasitic frequency. This integrated diagnosis procedure proved to be effective in the search for parasitic and fungal agents in rabbit medicine. Further research is needed to improve the knowledge on the transmission and pathogenicity of these agents in rabbits.