Prevalence of Passalurus ambiguus in domestic rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) in Karbala province, Iraq

Abstract

Commercial rabbit farming is primarily focused on the production of rabbit meat, although the presence of gastrointestinal disorders can impede their productivity. Endoparasites significantly contribute to the development of several diseases in rabbits, leading to higher rates of illness and death. Passalurus ambiguus is a widely distributed nematode that commonly infects the intestines of rabbits and hares. Parasitic disease can have a substantial economic impact on the industry by reducing the commercial value of rabbit meat and skins, impeding growth and development, and leading to mortality. This study aims to examine the frequency of gastrointestinal parasites in domestic rabbits that are bred in Karbala province, Iraq. Throughout the trial, fecal samples were collected from a randomly selected group of 48 live rabbits. The feces are collected directly from the anus of each living animal. The samples were tested and the presence of eggs and nematodes was detected in the infected samples. Analysis of samples was carried out at the Parasitology Laboratory, college of Veterinary Medicine, Kerbala university, using the flotation technique. Feces from 48 rabbits (ages 1-2) years. The feces are taken out of each animal directly from the anus. Upon testing, it was found that 16 out of 48 fecal samples, accounting for a prevalence of 33.33 %, were infected with at least one nematode. Chi-square (χ2) statistics. Age and genders are not statistically significant at P values ≥ 0.05. This study identified the presence of Passalurus ambiguus in rabbits of varying ages residing in Karbala region, Iraq, including both male and female domestic rabbits. Determining the age and gender of rabbits affected by passalurosis would enable the management of the infection level in these animals. Regular use of a consistent and dependable diagnostic method is essential in industrial rabbit farms to detect and monitor gastrointestinal parasite illnesses. Gastrointestinal parasites continue to be significant health issues that lead to the mortality of rabbit litters in production. Stress and a reduction in immune response may be crucial factors driving this phenomenon.