What It Is:
Mange is a skin disease caused by microscopic mites that burrow into or live on the skin, leading to itching, hair loss, and inflammation. While mange is more common in dogs, cats can develop it too. The two main types of mange in cats are demodectic mange and sarcoptic mange, each caused by a different type of mite.
Mange is uncommon in healthy cats, but it can occur in kittens, stray cats, or those with weakened immune systems.
🐾 Common Symptoms
Symptoms of mange can vary depending on the type of mite and the cat’s immune response, but may include:
- Intense itching and scratching
- Patchy hair loss
- Red, scaly, or crusty skin
- Thickened or wrinkled skin in chronic cases
- Sores or scabs from self trauma
- Ear irritation or discharge
- Poor coat condition
- Restlessness or agitation
In severe cases, cats may develop secondary bacterial infections from scratching and skin damage.
🦠 Types of Mange and Causes
Demodectic Mange (Demodicosis):
Caused by Demodex mites, which normally live in small numbers on healthy skin. In some cats, especially those with a weakened immune system, the mites multiply and cause skin disease.
- Often localized around the face, eyes, or neck
- May be non itchy or mildly itchy
- Seen in young cats or those with underlying illness
Sarcoptic Mange (Scabies):
Caused by Sarcoptes scabiei mites, which burrow into the skin and cause intense itching.
- Highly contagious between animals
- Causes severe itching, hair loss, and skin damage
- Rare in cats but may occur from exposure to infected dogs or wildlife
Other less common mites like Notoedres cati and Cheyletiella can also cause mange-like symptoms in cats.
🔍 Diagnosis
Diagnosis involves identifying mites or ruling out other skin diseases.
Veterinary diagnostics may include:
- Skin scrapings examined under a microscope to find mites
- Fur plucks or tape tests
- Fecal exam, as cats may ingest mites while grooming
- Response to treatment if mites cannot be found
- Skin biopsy in difficult cases
Because mites are tiny and hard to find, multiple tests may be needed for diagnosis.
💊 Treatment
Treatment depends on the type of mange and severity of symptoms.
Common treatments include:
- Topical medications such as lime sulfur dips or moxidectin
- Oral or injectable treatments such as ivermectin or fluralaner
- Medicated shampoos or skin soothers
- Antibiotics for secondary infections
- Anti inflammatories to reduce discomfort
- Regular cleaning of bedding and environment
In multi cat households, all pets may need treatment or testing. Some mites can survive in the environment, so disinfection is important.
🩺 Prognosis
With proper treatment, the prognosis is excellent:
- Localized demodectic mange often resolves with minimal treatment
- Generalized or sarcoptic mange requires a longer treatment course
- Underlying immune problems may affect recovery
- Most cats respond well within two to four weeks
Recheck visits help ensure the mites are fully eliminated.
💡 Cat Owner Note
If your cat is scratching like crazy or losing fur in strange patches, it could be more than allergies. It might be mange. While rare, it is uncomfortable and contagious in some forms. The good news is that once identified, mange is treatable and your cat can return to feeling and looking like themselves again.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Mange in Cats
Is mange contagious to humans?
Sarcoptic mange can be transmitted to humans, causing itchy skin, but the mites do not survive long on people.
Can indoor cats get mange?
Yes. They can be exposed through contact with other pets, grooming tools, or contaminated environments.
How long does mange treatment take?
Most cats improve within two to four weeks, though treatment may continue longer in severe cases.
How do I prevent mange in my cat?
Keep your cat indoors, use regular parasite prevention, and avoid contact with infected animals.
Can mange come back after treatment?
It is possible, especially if the underlying cause is not resolved or if exposure happens again.
Is mange painful for cats?
Yes. Mange can cause intense itching, discomfort, and skin damage if left untreated.