Are Dermatitis and Demodectic Mange the Same?

Dermatitis is a condition in which the skin becomes inflamed. Dermatitis in pets can be caused by demodectic mange, but they are not the same thing.

  1. Dermatitis Definition

    • Like humans, animals can suffer from dermatitis. Dermatitis usually involves very dry skin, itchiness or swollen, red, rash-like symptoms.

    Dermatitis Causes

    • Mange is one cause of dermatitis in pets. Dry, itchy or inflamed skin can also be caused by allergies, fleas or infection, according to WebVet.com.

    Mange Definition

    • Mange damages skin and causes fur to become uneven or fall out, according to the Pet Center. It is caused by small mites that live in an animal's skin or fur.

    Mange Types

    • The two most common types of mange are sarcoptic mange, caused by the sarcoptic mite (scabies), and demodectic mange, caused by the demodex mite.

    Itching

    • Some types of dermatitis itch cause pets to scratch vigorously, according to WebVet.com. Sarcoptic mange causes extreme itching. Demodectic mange causes a type of dermatitis that does not itch, but it is uncomfortable and may cause your pet to lick its fur more often than usual.

    Considerations

    • Demodectic mange is common in dogs. Cats can also be affected, though this is less common, according to PetEducation.com. Pets with weakened immune systems are more likely to have demodectic mange.