Relationship between coproparasitological and hematological examinations of Cuniculus paca in captivity

Abstract

The objective of this study was to conduct coproparasitological examinations and hemoparasite investigations associated with a hemogram to evaluate the state of the parasitized animals before and after deworming, contribute to sanitary measures, and provide knowledge of Cuniculus paca hematological patterns. We performed these examinations in 20 animals aged between 2 and 10 years on different dates (day 0 and day 30) before and after deworming with a vermifuge based on albendazole + cobalt. The changes caused by endoparasites and hemoparasites were observed and whether there was a satisfactory effect on deworming was evaluated. Trichuris spp., Strongyloides spp., and non-sporulated Eimeria spp. oocytes were detected during the examinations. Trichuris spp. had the highest incidence. We found no hemoparasites in any blood smears. In the first sampling, the eosinophilia and leukocytosis in the hemogram indicated parasitism in the animals. In the second sampling, the number of eosinophils decreased and the number of eggs and oocysts nearly disappeared in the coproparasitological examinations. The vermifuge showed an acceptable effect on sanitary management, and the hemogram was consistent with animal hygiene.

Keywords

• Wild animal
• Endoparasites
• Blood count.