Mange is an infestation of mites. More commonly seen in dogs than cats, this itchy and sometimes painful problem is zoonotic, meaning it can be transferred among species. Mange comes in three different varities--demodectic mange, sarcoptic mange, and notoedric mange. Of these three varieties, Demodectic mange and notoedric mange affect cats. Sarcoptic mange is similar to notoedric mange, but rarely, if ever, affects felines. Demodectic and notoedric mange are similar in symptoms and severity, but are caused by different parasites.
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Demodectic Mange
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Demodectic mange is caused by one of two mites known by the names of Demodex cati or Demodex gatoi. Both of these parasites cause itchy, crusty red lesions to appear on the entire body or localized parts of the body. Demodectic mange is fairly common in cats of Siamese or Himalayan heritage.
Notoedric Mange
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Notoedric mange, also known as feline scabies, is caused by the mite known as Notoedres cati. Much like demodectic mange, Notoedric mange is characterized by hair loss, itchiness, redness and crusty lesions. Like demodectic mange, notoedric mange may appear in localized areas, but it is more commonly found all over the cat's body.
Cortisone
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Cortisone is a hormonal steroid, often used in humans as a cream to stop itching. While it may seem like a logical conclusion to use cortisone as a treatment for the symptomatic itching of mange, cortisone can actually do more harm than good.
Risks of Cortisone Treatment
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Cortisone, or any corticosteroid, causes the immune system of the cat to weaken and become compromised. With a disease such as mange, where there are often open wounds or lesions present, the compromise of the body's immune system can lead to dangerous secondary infections which the cat cannot defend itself against. In fact, prior corticosteroid use can be a risk factor for felines to develop demodectic mange.
Recommended Treatment
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Demodectic mange and notoedric mange are treated by veterinarians with a multipronged approach. Clipping the fur short and applying a topical insecticidal cream is the first part of treatment. Bathing the cat with pesticidal shampoo, and utilization of a lime and sulfur dip, are also commonly used in the treatment of mange. Oral medications may be given to the cat to reduce swelling and inflammation, as well as ward off any secondary bacterial infections. Oral insecticides, while not approved for use in felines for the treatment of mange, have also been used by veterinarians with some success.
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