Treating Mange in Cats: A Comprehensive Guide

Mange in cats, while not as common as in dogs, is a skin disease caused by parasitic mites. These tiny creatures burrow into the skin, causing intense itching, hair loss, inflammation, and secondary infections. Understanding the different types of mange, recognizing the symptoms, and knowing how to effectively treat and prevent it are crucial for maintaining your cat’s health and well-being. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about treating mange in cats.

## Understanding Mange in Cats

Mange is a general term for skin diseases caused by mites. Several types of mites can affect cats, each with its own characteristics and treatment approaches.

### Types of Mange in Cats:

* **Notoedric Mange (Feline Scabies):** This is the most common type of mange in cats and is caused by the *Notoedres cati* mite. It’s highly contagious and intensely itchy. The mites burrow deep into the skin, primarily affecting the head, ears, and neck, but can spread to the entire body.
* **Demodectic Mange:** This type of mange is caused by *Demodex cati* or *Demodex gatoi* mites. *Demodex cati* normally lives in small numbers in the hair follicles of cats without causing any problems. However, if a cat’s immune system is compromised (due to illness, stress, or genetics), these mites can proliferate and cause localized or generalized mange. *Demodex gatoi*, on the other hand, is contagious and resides on the surface of the skin. This form often causes intense itching and self-trauma.
* **Cheyletiellosis (Walking Dandruff):** Though technically not a ‘true’ mange, Cheyletiellosis is caused by the *Cheyletiella blakei* mite and is often considered in the differential diagnosis of mange. These mites live on the surface of the skin and are highly contagious. They are called ‘walking dandruff’ because they resemble moving flakes of skin. This is a mild form of mange and can be readily treated.

### How Cats Contract Mange:

* **Direct Contact:** The most common way cats contract mange is through direct contact with an infected animal. This can occur in multi-cat households, shelters, or during outdoor encounters.
* **Indirect Contact:** Mites can survive for a short time in the environment, so a cat can potentially contract mange by coming into contact with contaminated bedding, grooming tools, or other objects.
* **Weakened Immune System:** In the case of *Demodex cati*, a weakened immune system can allow the mite population to overgrow.

## Recognizing the Symptoms of Mange

Early detection and treatment are crucial for preventing mange from becoming severe and causing long-term complications. Be vigilant and watch out for the following symptoms:

* **Intense Itching (Pruritus):** This is the hallmark symptom of mange. Affected cats will scratch, rub, and bite at their skin incessantly.
* **Hair Loss (Alopecia):** Intense scratching can lead to hair loss, often starting around the ears, head, and neck, and spreading to other parts of the body.
* **Skin Redness (Erythema):** The skin will appear red and inflamed due to irritation and scratching.
* **Skin Lesions:** You may notice small bumps, papules, pustules, or crusts on the skin.
* **Scaling and Dandruff:** The skin may become flaky and scaly.
* **Thickened Skin:** In chronic cases, the skin may become thickened and leathery.
* **Self-Trauma:** Excessive scratching and grooming can lead to self-inflicted wounds, such as sores, abrasions, and infections.
* **Changes in Behavior:** A cat with mange may become irritable, restless, and withdrawn due to the constant discomfort.

## Diagnosing Mange in Cats

If you suspect your cat has mange, it is essential to consult a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis. Attempting to treat mange without confirming the diagnosis can be ineffective and potentially harmful.

The veterinarian will perform a thorough physical examination and ask about your cat’s medical history and symptoms. Diagnostic procedures may include:

* **Skin Scrapings:** This involves gently scraping the surface of the skin with a scalpel blade to collect skin cells and debris. The sample is then examined under a microscope to identify mites.
* **Microscopic Examination of Hair and Debris:** Hair and debris collected from the affected areas can also be examined under a microscope to look for mites or their eggs.
* **Acetate Tape Impression:** This involves using clear acetate tape to collect surface debris from the skin. The tape is then placed on a microscope slide and examined.
* **Fungal Culture:** This test is performed to rule out fungal infections like ringworm, which can cause similar symptoms to mange.
* **Allergy Testing:** In some cases, allergy testing may be recommended to rule out allergies as a contributing factor to the skin problems.
* **Response to Treatment:** In some cases, your vet may prescribe treatment based on suspicion of mange, and the response to the medication can help to confirm the diagnosis.

## Treating Mange in Cats: A Step-by-Step Guide

Once your veterinarian has diagnosed mange, they will recommend a treatment plan based on the type of mange, the severity of the infection, and your cat’s overall health. Treatment typically involves a combination of topical and systemic medications. **Never administer any medication to your cat without first consulting with your veterinarian.** Many medications safe for dogs are toxic to cats.

Here is a detailed step-by-step guide to treating mange in cats:

**Step 1: Veterinary Consultation and Diagnosis**

As emphasized earlier, this is the most crucial step. A veterinarian will accurately diagnose the type of mange affecting your cat, ruling out other possible conditions like allergies or fungal infections. They will then prescribe the appropriate medication and dosage.

**Step 2: Isolation (If Necessary)**

*Notoedric* and *Demodex gatoi* mange are highly contagious. If you have other cats or pets, your veterinarian may recommend isolating the affected cat to prevent the spread of the mites. Keep the infected cat in a separate room with its own food, water, litter box, and bedding.

**Step 3: Clipping the Hair (If Necessary)**

For cats with long or matted fur, clipping the hair around the affected areas can help to improve the effectiveness of topical medications. Your veterinarian or a professional groomer can safely clip the hair. Use blunt-nosed scissors to avoid accidentally cutting your cat. Trimming the fur will allow the medicine to reach the skin easier and help in preventing dirt and debris from accumulating on the affected area.

**Step 4: Bathing Your Cat (If Recommended)**

Your veterinarian may recommend bathing your cat with a medicated shampoo to help remove debris, scales, and crusts from the skin. Use a shampoo specifically designed for treating mange in cats and follow your veterinarian’s instructions carefully. Do not use human shampoos as they can be too harsh for your cat’s skin and may worsen the condition.

* **How to Bathe Your Cat:**
* Gather your supplies: medicated shampoo, towels, a washcloth, and a pitcher of lukewarm water.
* Wet your cat thoroughly with lukewarm water, avoiding the eyes and ears.
* Apply the medicated shampoo and lather it gently, paying close attention to the affected areas.
* Let the shampoo sit on the skin for the recommended time (usually 5-10 minutes).
* Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water until all traces of shampoo are gone.
* Towel-dry your cat thoroughly.
* Keep your cat warm and dry after the bath.

**Step 5: Applying Topical Medications**

Topical medications are often used to kill the mites directly on the skin. Your veterinarian may prescribe one or more of the following:

* **Lime Sulfur Dip:** This is a common and effective treatment for mange. It involves diluting lime sulfur concentrate in water and applying it to the cat’s entire body. The dip has a strong odor and can stain clothing and surfaces, so it’s important to take precautions. Typically, cats are dipped once a week for several weeks.
* **How to Apply Lime Sulfur Dip:**
* Wear gloves and protective clothing.
* Dilute the lime sulfur concentrate according to your veterinarian’s instructions.
* Apply the solution to your cat’s entire body using a sponge or a dip container, avoiding the eyes and ears.
* Do not rinse the cat after applying the dip.
* Allow the cat to air-dry in a warm, well-ventilated area. Do not allow the cat to lick itself while the dip is still wet.
* **Amitraz Dip:** Amitraz is another effective topical treatment for mange. It is available as a concentrate that needs to be diluted in water before application. Amitraz can be toxic to cats if ingested, so it’s important to prevent your cat from licking itself after application. Only use if prescribed by your vet.
* **Ivermectin:** While effective, Ivermectin is not safe for all cats, particularly those with the MDR1 gene mutation (common in some breeds like Collies). It is available in topical and injectable forms and should only be used under veterinary supervision.
* **Selamectin (Revolution):** This is a topical medication that is effective against various parasites, including mites. It is applied to the skin on the back of the neck once a month.
* **Moxidectin (Advantage Multi):** Similar to Selamectin, Moxidectin is a topical medication that treats a range of parasites, including mites. It is also applied to the skin on the back of the neck monthly. This also needs veterinary supervision.

**Step 6: Administering Systemic Medications (If Prescribed)**

In some cases, your veterinarian may prescribe systemic medications, such as oral or injectable drugs, to kill the mites from the inside out. These medications are typically used for severe or generalized mange infections.

* **Ivermectin:** As mentioned earlier, Ivermectin can be administered orally or by injection, but it should only be used under veterinary supervision due to the risk of toxicity.
* **Milbemycin Oxime:** This is an oral medication that is effective against various parasites, including mites. It is typically given once a month.
* **Steroids:** In some cases, your veterinarian may prescribe steroids to reduce inflammation and itching. However, steroids should be used with caution as they can have side effects.

**Step 7: Treat Secondary Infections**

Mange can often lead to secondary bacterial or fungal infections due to the damaged skin barrier. Your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics or antifungal medications to treat these infections. Follow your veterinarian’s instructions carefully and complete the entire course of medication.

**Step 8: Provide Supportive Care**

In addition to medications, providing supportive care is essential for helping your cat recover from mange. This includes:

* **Good Nutrition:** Feed your cat a high-quality diet to support its immune system and promote skin health. Look for foods that are rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.
* **Comfortable Bedding:** Provide your cat with soft, clean bedding to prevent further irritation of the skin.
* **Stress Reduction:** Minimize stress in your cat’s environment, as stress can weaken the immune system and delay healing.
* **E-Collar (Elizabethan Collar):** If your cat is excessively scratching or licking at the affected areas, your veterinarian may recommend using an e-collar to prevent self-trauma.

**Step 9: Clean the Environment**

To prevent re-infestation, it’s essential to thoroughly clean your cat’s environment, including:

* **Bedding:** Wash all of your cat’s bedding in hot water with a strong detergent. Dry on the highest heat setting.
* **Grooming Tools:** Disinfect all grooming tools, such as brushes and combs, with a solution of bleach and water (1 part bleach to 32 parts water).
* **Surfaces:** Clean and disinfect all surfaces that your cat has come into contact with, such as floors, furniture, and countertops.
* **Litter Box:** Empty and disinfect the litter box regularly.

**Step 10: Follow-Up Veterinary Visits**

It’s important to schedule follow-up visits with your veterinarian to monitor your cat’s progress and ensure that the treatment is working. Your veterinarian may perform additional skin scrapings to check for the presence of mites.

## Preventing Mange in Cats

Preventing mange is always better than treating it. Here are some tips to help prevent mange in your cat:

* **Limit Exposure:** Keep your cat indoors as much as possible to minimize its exposure to infected animals.
* **Quarantine New Pets:** If you introduce a new cat to your household, quarantine it for a few weeks to ensure that it is not carrying any parasites or diseases.
* **Regular Veterinary Checkups:** Take your cat for regular veterinary checkups to detect and treat any health problems early.
* **Good Hygiene:** Maintain good hygiene by regularly cleaning your cat’s bedding, grooming tools, and litter box.
* **Strong Immune System:** Support your cat’s immune system by feeding it a high-quality diet, providing plenty of exercise, and minimizing stress.

## Additional Tips for Managing Mange in Cats

* **Be Patient:** Treating mange can take time, so be patient and consistent with the treatment plan.
* **Monitor for Side Effects:** Watch for any side effects from the medications and report them to your veterinarian.
* **Don’t Self-Treat:** Never attempt to treat mange without consulting a veterinarian. Many over-the-counter treatments are ineffective and can be harmful to cats.
* **Consider Breed Predispositions:** Some breeds are more prone to certain types of mange. For instance, Siamese and Burmese cats are more predisposed to *Demodex gatoi* mange.
* **Consult Your Vet About Preventatives:** Some flea and tick preventatives also provide some protection against mites. Talk to your vet about the best preventative for your cat.

## Conclusion

Mange in cats can be a distressing condition for both the cat and its owner. However, with prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment, most cats can make a full recovery. By understanding the different types of mange, recognizing the symptoms, and following your veterinarian’s instructions carefully, you can help your cat get back to its healthy, happy self. Remember, prevention is key, so take steps to minimize your cat’s exposure to mites and maintain its overall health and well-being.