Epidemiology Investigation and Morphological Identification of Otodectes cynotis in Dogs at Baghdad City/Iraq
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54174/gsg8yb85Keywords:
Otodectes cynotis, Ear mite, Otoacariasis, Canine, Otitis externaAbstract
Otodectes cynotis is one of the common causes of otitis externa in companion animals; however, current epidemiological data are still rare in Iraqi pet dogs. The objective of this study was to determine the morphological description and prevalence of O. cynotis on privately owned dogs in Baghdad city, and to assess the relative risk factors involved. One hundred and eighty samples of dog ear wax were obtained from dogs taken to veterinary clinics during the period from November 2025 to April 2026. Microscopic observations were made from specimens to find and identify the developmental forms of mites. Morphological analysis established eggs, larvae, nymphs and adult mites indicating active life-cycle completion within the host. Diagnosis was based on smooth oval eggs, three-legged larvae, four-legged nymphs and sexually dimorphic adults with species-specific pedicel structure in females and a unique copulatory structure in males. The general prevalence was 26.11% (47/180). Age and body condition were associated significantly with infestation, which was most prevalent in dogs less than 6 months to 1 year of age and dogs that were in unhealthy body conditions. Sex, months and housing category did not significantly associate. The dogs that receiving regular viral vaccination and deworming showed a much lower infestation, than the non-medicated animals. The results reflect O. cynotis still as a clinically important ectoparasite in dogs from Baghdad city population. Combinations that include a young age, unhealthy body condition, and absent organized preventive care are significant predisposing factors.
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