Definition of Mange in Cats
“Mange” is a generic term for a skin condition of domestic animals caused by a number of different genera of external parasitic mites. There are several types of mites which predominately infect cats: Notoedres cati, (feline scabies), Cheyletiella blakei (cheyletiellosis or “walking dandruff”), Otodectes cynotis and Demodex cati and gatoi spp. (demodicosis). Other mites more commonly infect dogs, including Sarcoptes scabiei, although cats and even people can become affected from dogs with severe infestation from these parasites.
How “Mange” Affects Cats
Domestic cats of any age can develop a highly contagious disease from the Notoedres cati mite. This form of mange typically causes persistent pruritus (itchiness), crusts, flaky skin and hair loss (alopecia) on the ears, head, face, neck and sometimes paws. In chronic cases, it can spread across the body. Secondary skin infections can develop and cause extensive scratching and subsequent self-trauma. Occasionally, this mite can opportunistically infect other animals, including dogs and humans.
The Cheyletiella blakei mite also primarily infests cats, although cross-infestation to people is quite common. This disease is highly contagious and most often affects young or immuno-compromised individuals. Affected animals typically have varying degrees of crusting, scaling and pruritus (itchiness) along their back. Long haired cats may be at increased risk of developing clinical disease. The nick-name “walking dandruff” is apt because these mites are large and visible to the naked eye. The scales or flakes of “dandruff” are often the moving mites, themselves. The eggs from this mite are shed into the environment and can be a key source of reinfestation of people and pets.
Otodectes cynotis mites are common inhabitants of the external ear canal of cats, causing an itchy infection called otitis externa. Affected cats frequently shake their heads, paw at their faces and scratch vigorously at their ears.
Demodex cati and gatoi spp of ectoparasites are similar to the species common in dogs, but cats develop disease much less commonly. As in dogs, cats with demodicosis usually show hair loss, crusting and scaling on the head and neck, which may or may not become generalized. Cats with diabetes mellitus seem to be at an increased risk of developing generalized disease.
Causes of Feline “Mange”
As described above, mange in companion cats is caused by localized or generalized infestation by external parasites – most commonly Notoedres cati, Cheyletiella blakei and Otodectes cynotis. Cats develop disease by contact with infected symptomatic or sometimes asymptomatic carrier cats.
Preventing “Mange” in Cats
The most effective way to prevent mange is to prevent contact between infected and non-infected animals. This is not always possible, because some infected cats do not show noticeable clinical signs of disease but can still be highly contagious to other animals.
Special Notes
Your veterinarian can use a number of diagnostic tests to identify any mite infestation in your cat. A number of treatments are available to rid cats of these parasites, including oral and injectable drugs (antibiotics, steroids, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, anti-parasitic drugs), medicated dips and shampoos and a thorough cleaning of the cat’s living environment. Each type of mite will require an individualized approach to therapy. The adult mites need to be killed, and associated skin infections, sores and itchiness also must be treated. Eggs or larva must be eradicated as well.
It is important to remember that these mite-related conditions are zoonotic – meaning that they are highly contagious between people and their pets. Owners of affected animals who develop itchy rashes or redness, especially on their arms or trunk area, should consult with their personal physician. A veterinarian is not able to diagnose or treat disease in people.