Mange is a common name for one of several parasitic diseases that affect dogs and other domestic animals. Demodectic mange is caused by Demodex mites, while sarcoptic mange, also known as scabies, is the result of Sarcoptes mites. Mites are common in dogs, cats and other animals (including humans) but increase in numbers due to immune deficiency, malnutrition or stress leading to inflamed skin, hair loss and itching.
Things You'll Need
- Veterinary testing
- Anti-parasitic medications
- Medicated shampoo
- Sulfurated lime rinse
Instructions
Watch your pet for the signs of mange. The earliest and most common sign is excessive scratching. Dogs most often scratch their ears, face and legs, while cats suffer from mange mostly on the head and neck. You should also watch your pets for signs of dry skin and hair loss.
Test your dog for mange by rubbing its ears. If the dog responds by scratching on the same side as the ear rubbed, that is a sign of mange.
Have a veterinarian test your dog for mange. The most conclusive test for mange is a skin-scraping that is then analyzed for the presence of mites.
Treat the mange using ivermectin anti-parasitic medications, medicated shampoos or specialized rinses. Ivermectin and medicated shampoos are most effective for demodectic mange, while a series of sulfurated lime rinses are the standard treatment for sarcoptic mange.
Continue the treatment over time, following the advice of your veterinarian. Mange treatment typically lasts several weeks.
Thoroughly clean any areas where your pet has been. Mites living in animal bedding or fabric coverings can reinfect animals for up to two to three weeks. You can wash fabrics with normal laundry detergent or upholstery cleaner.