Background: Sarcoptes scabiei, the causative agent of scabies, is a burrowing mite affecting humans and various mammals, including rabbits. This study reports sever infestation of scabies in pet rabbits, emphasizing the zoonotic potential and the need for preventive measures to control transmission from domestic animals to humans. This report aims to describe the infection of domestic rabbits with S. scabiei, highlight its zoonotic potential, and underscore the need for accurate diagnostic and historical data to enhance monitoring and management. Methods: Two pet rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus), sourced from a breeding center in Mashhad, Iran, were examined post-mortem in January 2025. Parasitological analyses were conducted, including skin scrapings clarified in KOH 10% to identify potential agents such as burrowing mites. The isolated mites were identified based on standard keys. Results: Both rabbits exhibited severe scabies symptoms, including crusting and peeling skin around the paws, sores near the nails caused by scratching, hyperkeratosis of the paws, the skin of the ears and nose. Microscopic analysis confirmed S. scabiei and its eggs in skin samples. The second rabbit died shortly after the first, showing identical symptoms and rapid disease progression. No signs of scabies were observed in family members or the breeder in contact with the infected rabbits. Conclusion: This study highlights the presence of scabies in pet rabbits in Mashhad and its zoonotic implications. Factors such as handling stress, housing changes, and a potentially contaminated environment likely worsened the infection. The zoonotic nature of S. scabiei underscores risks to human health. Effective management requires sourcing animals from reputable centers, implementing quarantine protocols, disinfecting environments, and regular skin health monitoring. These findings emphasize the critical need for improved parasite control and management of comorbidities in laboratory and pet settings to prevent outbreaks and protect public health.

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