What is Mange in Cats?
When people think of mange, they often associate it with dogs. However, cats can also suffer from this skin condition, which leads to hair loss, itching, and irritation. Microscopic mites cause mange in cats, and there are three common types, each linked to a different kind of parasite.
Although mange is not as common in cats as it is in dogs, it should be considered if other skin issues, such as flea infestations, have been ruled out. Early detection and treatment can help prevent severe discomfort and skin damage.
While managing itself is not usually a medical emergency, it's important to take your cat to a veterinarian if it shows signs of serious illness, including lethargy, weakness, or loss of appetite. Prompt diagnosis and treatment will help keep your cat healthy and comfortable.
Type of Mange in Cats?
Mange in cats is caused by different types of parasitic mites, leading to skin irritation, hair loss, and discomfort. The three most common types of mange in cats include:
1. Demodectic Mange (Demodicosis)
Two species of Demodex mites cause this type of mange:
- Demodex cati – Lives inside hair follicles.
- Demodex gatoi – Resides on the skin's surface.
Both types can lead to skin inflammation, excessive scratching, and hair loss.
2. Notoedric Mange (Feline Scabies)
Notoedres cati mites are responsible for notoedric mange, often called feline scabies. This highly contagious condition leads to severe itching, crusty skin, and hair loss, typically starting around the face and ears before spreading.
3. Cheyletiellosis (Walking Dandruff)
Caused by Cheyletiella blakei mites, this form of mange is sometimes called "walking dandruff" due to the visible movement of mites on the cat's skin. Symptoms include flaky skin, itching, and mild hair loss.
Other Mites That Affect Cats
In some cases, other types of mites can cause skin issues in cats, such as:
- Ear Mites (Otodectes cynotis) – Commonly found in a cat's ears, leading to irritation and infections.
- Sarcoptes Scabiei – The same mite that causes sarcoptic mange in dogs can occasionally affect cats.
If your cat shows signs of itching, redness, or hair loss, a veterinarian can diagnose the type of mange and recommend effective treatment. Early detection helps prevent severe discomfort and secondary infections.
Symptoms of Mange in Cats: Signs to Watch For
Mange mites, whether living on the skin's surface or burrowing underneath, can cause severe discomfort for cats. If your cat has mange, you may notice the following symptoms:
Common Signs of Mange in Cats:
- Hair Loss – Patches of missing fur, especially around the face, ears, and abdomen.
- Itching and Scratching – Persistent scratching due to irritation from mites.
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Skin Lesions – Various skin conditions, including:
- Rashes and Sores – Red, inflamed, and sometimes oozing spots.
- Miliary Dermatitis – Small, crusty bumps spread across the skin.
- Eosinophilic Granuloma Complex – Raised, red, and inflamed skin, often appearing moist.
Mange or Another Skin Condition?
Mange symptoms can resemble other skin problems, including flea infestations, allergies, bacterial infections, and ringworm. If your cat is experiencing persistent itching, hair loss, or skin irritation, a veterinary diagnosis is essential to determine the cause and start appropriate treatment.
Causes of Mange in Cats
Mange mites are highly contagious and can spread quickly through direct contact with an infected cat or contaminated bedding. Some mites even exist in the environment, making outdoor cats more vulnerable. Here's how cats can contract mange:
How Mange Spreads:
- Direct Contact – Cats can catch mange by interacting with an infected cat, especially in multi-cat households or feral cat colonies.
- Contaminated Bedding & Surfaces – Mites can linger on blankets, bedding, and furniture an infected cat uses.
- Outdoor Exposure – Some mange mites live in the environment and can attach to a cat that roams outside.
- Weakened Immune System – Demodex mites naturally exist in cats but usually don't cause problems unless the cat's immune system is compromised.
Which Cats Are Most at Risk?
- Outdoor Cats – Feral and stray cats are more likely to get mange due to exposure to infected animals and contaminated environments.
- Cats in Multi-Cat Homes – If one cat has mange, it can quickly spread to others through close contact.
- Cats with Weak Immune Systems – Older cats, kittens, or those with underlying health conditions are more susceptible to mange-related issues.
While indoor-only cats have a lower risk of mange, no cat is completely immune. If you notice itching, hair loss, or skin irritation, a vet visit is recommended for early diagnosis and treatment.
Preventive Medications for Mange in Cats
Mange in cats can be treated with various medications, depending on the type of mites, the cat's age, and overall health. A veterinarian will recommend the best treatment based on your cat's specific condition.
Common Mange Treatments for Cats:
- Moxidectin (Advantage Multi) – A topical treatment that helps eliminate mange mites.
- Fluralaner (Bravecto Topical) – Provides long-lasting protection against mites.
- Ivermectin (Heartgard) – An oral or injectable medication effective against mites.
- Milbemycin (Interceptor) – Commonly used to treat mite infestations in cats.
- Fipronil (Frontline) – A topical solution that helps control mites.
- Selamectin (Revolution) – A broad-spectrum treatment for mange and other parasites.
Important Considerations:
Always consult your veterinarian before starting any mange treatment to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Early treatment is key to preventing severe skin damage and discomfort. If you suspect your cat has mange, schedule a vet visit to discuss the best treatment options.
