What Causes Mange in Cattle?

Mange is a skin disorder that affects cows, dogs, cats and, even, people. It results in hair loss, scaly and scabby skin, and weight loss. Cows with mange that are aggressive about scratching against walls and fences can cause sores and bleeding. Although mange has only one cause, it can be spread quickly from cow to cow, once it invades a herd.

  1. Demodectic Mite

    • Demodex bovis (demodectic) mites, like all mange mites, attack a cow by digging into its skin to suck blood, eat dead skin tissue and lay eggs. This activity causes intense discomfort and itching. According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, demodectic mange is benign and usually clears of its own accord.

    Sarcoptic Mite

    • The Sarcoptic scabiei var bovis (sarcoptic) mite causes sarcoptic mange in cattle. This mite also burrows into a cow's skin, causing pain and itching. Sores and evidence of this mite start at a cow's head, neck and shoulders but can spread over the entire body.

    Psoroptic Mite

    • Psoroptes ovis (psoroptic) mites are commonly found on range and feedlot cattle. The work of these mites is concentrated on the shoulders and backs of cattle. The Merck Veterinary Manual states that this is a very severe mange and can cause death in young calves.

    Chorioptic Mite

    • Chorioptes bovis (chorioptic) is the most common cow mite in the US. This mite attacks a cow's legs and is more active during winter. The symptoms of this type of mange are relatively mild and are not dangerous.

    Exposure and Bedding

    • All mites are transferable. If a single cow has mange, it can quickly pass the mange to every other member of the herd through physical contact. Mites can also pass from cow to cow through shared bedding and mutual contact with walls and fences.