Signs of Mange Mites in Cats

What is Mange?

• Mange is a term used to describe several skin conditions caused by mites that infest the skin of animals such as dogs and cats. There are many kinds of mange but the most common kind of mange found in cats is Notoedric mange, which is caused by the mite Notoedres cati. Although mange mites can trouble cats of any age they are most commonly found in kittens. The disease can also be spread to humans, although it usually only causes minor itching.

Signs of Mange Mites in Cats

• Cats suffering from mange mite infestation show signs of skin irritation such as scratching and chewing. Prolonged itching can lead to hair loss and tough skin that, if not treated, can develop lesions. Legions are yellow, crusty patches on the skin. The itching typically begins on the head and neck and then spreads to other areas of the body. Brown spots are often present on the head and neck, along with spots on the end of the ears that look like dirt. These spots start out small and can grow larger if the condition is untreated. It is also common for cats to lose weight and become dehydrated due to the stress of the illness. Signs of dehydration include loose skin and lethargy. Lymph nodes near the affected area can also become swollen. For example, a cat with mange contained to the ears, head and neck may have swollen lymph nodes near its jaw or neck.

Diagnosis

• If mange is suspected, the cat should be taken to a veterinarian for an examination. After looking at the cat's physical condition, the vet will collect skin scrapings to test confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

• Once diagnosis has been confirmed the veterinarian will prescribe a course of action that usually involves clipping and bathing the cat. After bathing the cat will typically be treated with a 2 to 3 percent lime sulfur dip. This treatment is required once every seven days for six to eight weeks. It is important to note that, while many products used to treat scabies in dogs will kill mange mites in cats, most of these products are not safe for use on cats.

Prevention

• The best way to prevent mange in cats is to prevent them from coming into contact with infected cats or strays. Also make sure the cat's living environment is clean and any boarding facilities are sanitary. If there are multiple cats in the household, any cats suspected to be infected should immediately be isolated to prevent the condition from spreading to other animals.