Cattle Mange Treatment

Cattle mange is caused by a small mite that infects and damages the skin of mammals. There are several types of mange, all caused by different parasites. Although mange is most common in the fall and winter months, it can affect cattle year-round.

Physcial Examination
- To figure out if your cattle have mange, the first step is to look for the common symptoms. Cattle with mange will usually have small, crusty, nipple-like lesions around their head, neck and shoulders. These lesions can potentially spread if not treated. Mange will also cause cattle to itch intensely, and cows may rub on fences or gates to scratch their irritated skin.
Consult Your Vet
- Before pursuing any course of action, it is always best to consult your veterinarian. Your vet will be able to help you decide which type of treatment would be most effective. There are several types of mange in cattle so knowing which type your dealing with can lead you to the most effective course of treatment.
Types of Mange
- There are five main types of mange found in cattle. The first, sarcoptic mange, is also known as scabies and is highly contagious. Psoroptic mange is common in the central and western United States. Chorioptic mange, also known as leg mange, affects the pastern area. This is the most common form of mange in the U.S. Demodectic mange is a type of mange that is transferred from cow to calf during nursing. Psorergatic mange is very mild and usually is not treated.
Selecting a Treatment
- With the help of your veterinarian, decide whether a pour-on or injectable treatment is the best option. Pour-on medications are typically more affordable and usually take effect quicker than injections. However, in cases of severe mange, where the infection is deep within the skin, injections are typically more effective. Most forms of mange require similar treatments. The treatment protocols for sarcoptic and psoroptic mange are typically the same. Other types of mange will also respond to the same topical treatment.