While demodex mange, or demodectic mange, is relatively common in dogs, it is not seen as often in cats. It has a higher frequency among purebred Burmese and Siamese cats, but can affect cats of any age or breed.
-
The Mite
-
Demodex mange is caused by the Demodex cati mite, which lives within hair follicles, or the D. gatoi mite, which lives in the outer layer of skin.
Forms
-
There are two forms of demodex mange in cats. The localized form is more common and causes hair loss and scaly skin on the eyelids, head, ears and neck. The generalized form causes lesions of scaly skin on the body and legs as well.
Diagnosis
-
Both forms of demodex mange in cats are diagnosed by your veterinarian performing a skin scraping and examining the scrapings under a microscope to look for the mites.
Treatment
-
With localized mange, treatment might include a topical solution or a dip containing lime sulfur. Some veterinarians are also prescribing Ivermectin for the condition. If your cat has generalized demodectic mange, the vet will likely do further diagnostic testing to determine if there is an underlying condition.
Humans
-
While the mites from some types of mange are contagious among species, the mite causing demodex mange in cats tends to be host specific and doesn't infect humans or other animals.
-