Mange Disease in Cats

Mange refers to an intensely itchy skin disease caused by parasitic mites. Mange occurs more frequently in dogs than cats but cats can get mange. Although mange causes discomfort, it can be treated.

Types
- Five types of cat mange exist. Otodectic mange (ear mites) and notoedric mange (cat scabies) occur most frequently. Demodectic mange, cheyletiella mange and sarcoptic mange occur less frequently. A veterinarian can diagnose the specific type of mange a cat has.
Symptoms
- Symptoms of mange in cats include intense itching, restlessness, scratching, hair loss, head shaking and matted fur. Mange usually begins in a cat's face and ears but it can spread further.
Risk Factors
- Malnourished cats and cats with compromised immune systems are more likely to develop mange. Mange is rare in healthy cats.
Diagnosis
- Veterinarians diagnose mange by scraping a small amount of skin and viewing it through a microscope.
Treatment
- Veterinarians usually treat mange with topical medication or injections. Some may also prescribe anti-inflammatories or antibiotics.