Chorioptic Mange Treatment

Mites are microscopic insects that feed on the surface of your horse's skin and cause intense itching, hair loss and secondary skin infections. There are several species of mites that live and feed on horses; the Chorioptes equi mite causes a condition known as chorioptic mange or leg mange. Chorioptic mange tends to affect large, heavy breeds of horses and is most common in cold weather. To control the itching, horses with leg mange may stamp their feet repeatedly, causing tendon and ligament damage. A microscopic examination of skin scrapings is necessary for accurate diagnosis.

  1. Oral Ivermectin

    • According to a study published by the British Veterinary Association, oral ivermectin paste, a common equine dewormer, is somewhat effective against chorioptic mange in horses. Results of the study showed a "statistically significant reduction in the numbers of mites...but the mites were not eliminated from all the treated animals." Because it is not fully effective against mites, its use as a miticide is discouraged. Additionally, overuse of ivermectin is contributing to parasite drug resistance, a dangerous situation that is reducing the drug's effectiveness against its targeted parasites.

    Moxidectin

    • To combat mites and reduce the effect of equine drug resistance, researchers at Tanta University in Egypt studied moxidectin oral gel and found that it is an acceptable alternative to ivermectin. Their results showed "complete clinical and parasitological cure for mite infestation were obtained within 2 weeks" and they concluded "moxidectin oral gel is effective and good alternative for the treatment of chorioptic mange in horse to avoid drug resistance that may develop as a result of the intensive use of ivermectin alone for long periods."

    Fipronil

    • Many horse owners use Frontline®, a flea and tick spray, to kill leg mange mites. Although this product is only approved for use in dogs and cats, it is effective against mites. Its active ingredient, Fipronil, has been shown effective against chorioptic mange mites. In a study conducted at the University of Glasgow Veterinary School, 13 horses were treated with fipronil, and the results found that "by day 28 there were no behavioral signs of chorioptic mange in any of the animals, and there were significant reductions in the numbers of mites."