All About Mange
by Ben J. Character, DVM
Mange is a skin disease that effects dogs and cats. There are several types of mange. The most common types are sarcoptic (Scabies) and demodex (or “Red Mange”). Mange infections are caused by mites that infect the skin. It is important to know which mite is causing the problem, because the treatment protocol is different for each type. Also, sarcoptic mange is zoonotic; meaning you could contract the mite from an infected pet. Fortunately, the sarcoptic mites are not able to reproduce in human skin, and any infection should resolve when the mites die off.
Sarcoptic mites burrow into the skin to feed and reproduce. This burrowing cause intense pruritis (or itching). The standard test for determining the cause of infection is a skin scraping. Because the mites burrow into the skin, it is not uncommon for skin scrapings to be unsuccessful in finding the mite. Treatment of the sarcoptic mites usually include insecticide dips, injections, and oral or topical medications. The good news is that sarcoptic mites typically respond well to treatment.
Demodectic mites (also known as Demodex) are found in the hair follicles. Demodex doesn’t usually cause itching as bad as sarcoptic mange, but it can be itchy, especially if there is a secondary bacterial infection associated with it.
All dogs acquire Demodex mites at birth from the dam. They do not cause a problem, unless there is an underlying immunity issue, or if the pet is subjected to a stressful event that causes immunosuppression. Treatment of the demodex mite is limited to insecticide dips, or long-term oral medication.
If you think your pet may be suffering from a mange infection, a complete examination by a veterinarian should be performed. With an early laboratory diagnosis, most infections can be cured.