Pet rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) and guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus) are vehicles of pathogenic and allergenic fungi
Abreu Raquel, Pereira Soraia, Ramos Anabela, Cunha Eva, Reisinho Ana Teresa, Marques Tiago and Oliveira Manuela
Nowadays, rabbits and guinea pigs are frequently adopted as companion animals, representing a vehicle
for the dissemination of potentially pathogenic and allergenic fungi to their tutors. This study aimed to
characterize the cutaneous mycobiota of these species and evaluate the association between mycological
cultures results and several variables related to these animals’ husbandry. Hair and scales samples
(n=102) were collected from 32 rabbits and 19 guinea pigs: 51 by pulling hairs surrounding lesions and
collecting scales (if lesions present) or along the body of the animal (if absent); the other samples were
collected using Mackenzie’s technique. Samples were inoculated in Sabouraud Chloramphenicol Agar
and Dermatophyte Test Media and observed daily during the incubation period. Isolated fungal species
were identified based on their macro and microscopic morphology. A questionnaire was provided to
the animal’s tutors to collect information on animal husbandry. The most frequently isolated species
corresponded to saprophytic fungi, such as Aspergillus spp., Penicillium spp., Scopulariopsis spp.; yeasts
such as Candida sp. and Rhodotorula sp. were also found. Statistical analysis showed that a positive
mycological culture was related with animal’s age and the administration of ongoing medication, while
the number of isolated fungal species was related with animal’s species and outdoor access. These fungi
have already been reported as responsible for mycotic infections in humans and animals, including
dogs and cats, although they usually affect immunocompromised individuals. Therefore, these animals
can represent a zoonotic risk, which may be related with animals age, species, ongoing medication and
outdoor access.
