What Causes Mange in Cats?

Mange is caused by one of three types of mites and signified by the loss of hair and irritation of the skin. Mites are microscopic bugs that live on and feed off of the blood of the cat. They like to live where the skin is thinnest. Ear mites are the most common type of mite.

  1. Identification

    • Cats that have mange usually have raw, itchy skin. In some areas, the cat's hair may be thin or falling out, and the skin may be bleeding where the hair is missing. This is most common in areas around and in the ears, on the belly and around the genitals. In addition, a cat with mange may have flecks on her fur, which are the mites that cause the mange. The mite larvae, which is yellowish-orange, may also be visible.

    Mange on the Head

    • Mange found on the head is caused by burrowing mites. The mange will appear as sore, red bald spots on the forehead and around the base of the ears, where the burrowing mites are digging under the skin. The mites must be killed with a parasitic ointment applied to the skin. If the skin is severely irritated, antibiotics may be given.

    Scaly Mange

    • Cheyletiella mites cause scaly skin. This type of mange is often called "walking dandruff" because the mites move under tiny scales on the skin. This type of mange usually appears on the stomach of a cat. Topical sprays or oils are usually used to kill the mites, and frequent brushing is recommended to loosen and remove the scales. Antibiotics are also often given to the cat as well.

    Mange in Ears

    • Most cats suffer at one time or another from mange in ears. This is caused by ear mites. It is signified by the production of thick, brown wax and itching ears. These types of mites are too tiny to see, so a veterinarian must examine the cat and clean out the ears in order to make a diagnosis. Ear drops are usually used to kill the mites.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Mites are extremely contagious, so the best solution to prevent mange is to prevent your cat from catching mites. Mites can live in your home and even live on humans, so be sure to wash linens and clean thoroughly to get rid of them, including treating upholstery and carpets with a pesticide.