Abstract

Two distantly related Damaraland mole rat (Cryptomys damarensis) colonies became infested with cestodes. Colony one had approximately 10 out of 24 animals develop soft subcutaneous (SQ) swellings. One animal was euthanized for necropsy and histopathology. Histopathology and parasitological analysis suggested an infection with a Taenia sp. Colony one was treated with oral praziquantel at approximately 30 mg/kg body weight every other day for 10 doses and has shown a reduction in the size of the swellings as well as increased activity. Colony two had only one individual develop a soft SQ swelling. This animal had several surgeries for mass debridement and was treated parentally and orally with praziquantel and orally with albendazole. Parasitological examination of the mass contents suggested infestation with a Mesocestoides sp. No source for the cestode infestation has been identified.