Cat Sarocoptic Mange Cures

Mange is a condition in which parasitic mites live in and around a cat's skin and hair follicles. Sarcoptic mange is a specific type of mange that occurs when sarcoptic mites infect the cat. Feline sarcoptic mange also is referred to as feline scabies and it is highly contagious between cats and other household pets. Depending on the severity of the mite infestation, treatment can vary from a few days to several weeks.

  1. Bathing

    • Depending on the severity of the sarcoptic mange, the affected cat may require weekly or bi-weekly baths with a special anti-parasitic formula known as a lime sulfur dip. There are dozens of lime sulfur dip products available on the market, so a product specific for cats must be chosen to avoid accidental poisoning, according to the Pet Place website. It is important to follow all treatment instructions on the specific product as well as treatment instructions provided by the veterinarian in order for the cure to be successful.

    Selamectin

    • In mild cases of feline scabies, products containing selamectin can be applied. Selamectin is found in topical monthly parasite control products and is effective against sarcoptic mange mites as well as fleas and heartworm. Selamectin is an alternative for cats who have known reactions to ivermectin.

    Ivermectin

    • According to veterinarian Rosanna Marsalla of the PetPlace website, ivermectin is an anti-parasitic drug given once every two weeks for three treatments, or a total of six weeks. For mites, ivermectin can be given in an injection form, though oral and topical forms may also be available.

    In the Home

    • In addition to treating the affected cat, you must thoroughly clean the home. The entire house should be vacuumed--including mattresses. Sheets and bedding--both the cat's and the humans'--should be washed to kill off the mites and the eggs. Vacuuming should be done daily or every other day until the mange has been resolved.

    Secondary Bacterial Infections

    • Feline mange can result in secondary bacterial infections as excessive scratching results in open wounds. However, secondary bacterial infections can be treated with the use of topical or oral antibiotics.