Uses of Borax for Mange

Mange is a condition caused by mites burrowing into the skin of animals, laying eggs and causing extreme itching and flaking. Most people's experience with mange is when the family dog catches it. Sarcoptic mange -- as opposed to the slightly different demodectic mange, which is inherited -- is highly contagious and can be spread to humans. If you think your pet has mange, take it to a veterinarian who can properly diagnose the type of mange and determine the appropriate treatment. Borax is a very effective cure for the condition.

  1. Borax and Hydrogen Peroxide

    • Borax is an insecticide and will kill the mites and their eggs, but it cannot penetrate the skin where the mites and eggs are located. Hydrogen peroxide is a penetrant, allowing the borax to get into the skin where it is effective. To make the solution, mix a 16-ounce bottle of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide, 4 cups of water and 3 heaping tablespoons of borax. Mix and continue to add borax until it no longer dissolves and sinks to the bottom of the bucket. Generously apply the solution to the entire dog, completely soaking the coat and skin. Do not bathe, rinse or dry the animal once the solution is applied. Reapply every four days after bathing the animal to remove dead mites and eggs. Continue the treatments for one to two months.

    Borax and Vinegar

    • An alternative to hydrogen peroxide is vinegar, either plain or cider. Vinegar has the same penetrating qualities as hydrogen peroxide, and will allow the borax to soak through the skin. Follow the same proportions and guidelines as with the hydrogen peroxide treatment.

    Tips and Warnings

    • Borax must not be confused with boric acid. Boric acid has a much higher level of toxicity than borax and may cause death. Though borax itself has a very low toxicity, an even gentler substitute is sodium perborate, though it can be difficult to locate. Because mange is highly contagious, all dog bedding and other surfaces with which the dog has contact must be washed thoroughly. Only handle the animal while wearing rubber gloves until treatment is complete.