Scabies in cats: what is it and what to do?

 Scabies in cats: what is it and what to do?

Tracy Wilkins

Cat mange is one of the most common skin problems that can affect cats. Caused by mites that stay in the fur of felines, the disease can also affect dogs and even humans. Cats with mange suffer a lot from itching and skin problems. Fortunately, there is a cat mange treatment that can eliminate parasites and ensure comfort for the furry one. the Paws of the House answers all your questions about what is scabies in cats, what are its types and how to treat it the right way. Check it out below!

What is cat mange? Learn what causes the disease and how the animal becomes infected

Scabies in cats, also known as cat dander, is a dermatological disease caused by mites that lodge in the skin. The contagion of the kitten with these parasites occurs by direct contact with them or with an animal that is already infected. Therefore, it is important to avoid contact with pets that have the disease and not to frequent unsanitary places. Cat with scabies can happen inHowever, cats with weakened immunity are more likely to develop the disease.

There are a few types of mange in cats caused by different mites

The cause of cat mange is always mites, but the species of mite that infects the cat can vary. It is possible to define four types of cat mange that most affect felines. Each of them is caused by a different mite that prefers to affect a specific region of the body. Learn how cat mange looks according to each type:

Otodectic mange: is the most common type of scabies in cats. It is also called ear scabies, as this is where the mite prefers to lodge. This type of scabies in cats is contagious to other animals, such as dogs. Otodectic scabies in cats causes itching and redness in the ear, as well as a build-up of darker-coloured earwax.

Notoedric scabies: This type of scabies in cats is very contagious. It can also be called feline scabies and usually first affects the pet's head, causing lesions, itching and hair loss in the regions of the muzzle, ears, face and neck. Over time, it can expand to other areas of the body. Although this type of scabies in cats is very contagious, it is not so common.

Keiletielosis: This is a type of scabies in cats that mainly causes peeling of the skin. The peeling skin often makes the guardian think that it is dandruff in the cat. Scabies of this type causes, in addition to peeling, a lot of itching and is much more common in cats than in dogs.

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Demodectic mange: also known as black mange, this type of scabies in cats can be caused by two types of mites. It generates scabs all over the body, especially on the head, paws and ears, as well as itching, redness, spots and peeling of the skin. It is more common to see a dog than a cat with demodectic mange, but even so you need to be very vigilant.

Symptoms in the cat: scabies causes itching, redness and flaking of the skin

As scabies in cats can have different types of mites as parasites, each of them presents symptoms in different regions of the body. But in general, the cat with scabies feels very itchy, red, has scabs on the skin, hair loss and scaling. In some cases we can see the cat with scabies biting or licking its paws in an attempt to relieve the itching. As soon as you see your catwith any of these symptoms, you need to take him to the vet for an evaluation. Fortunately, there is treatment for mange in cats that usually resolves the problem quickly, especially if diagnosed early.

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How to treat mange in cats?

The treatment of scabies in cats is done with the use of parasiticides, usually oral or topical. It is important to note that the right way to treat scabies in cats will depend on the type that has contaminated the pet. Therefore, never self-medicate your pet. Only with an accurate diagnosis made by a veterinarian is it possible to know which type and, consequently, which is the most appropriate medication.In addition, there is no way to treat scabies in cats with home treatment - even more so without knowing which type has affected your cat. Scabies will only really be cured if you follow the step-by-step instructions prescribed by the specialist. There are also other methods of how to treat scabies in cats by means of soaps and shampoos, which can be indicated by the veterinarian.

Tracy Wilkins

Jeremy Cruz is a passionate animal lover and dedicated pet parent. With a background in veterinary medicine, Jeremy has spent years working alongside veterinarians, gaining invaluable knowledge and experience in caring for dogs and cats. His genuine love for animals and commitment to their well-being led him to create the blog Everything you need to know about dogs and cats, where he shares expert advice from veterinarians, owners, and respected experts in the field, including Tracy Wilkins. By combining his expertise in veterinary medicine with insights from other respected professionals, Jeremy aims to provide a comprehensive resource for pet owners, helping them understand and address their beloved pets' needs. Whether it's training tips, health advice, or simply spreading awareness about animal welfare, Jeremy's blog has become a go-to source for pet enthusiasts seeking reliable and compassionate information. Through his writing, Jeremy hopes to inspire others to become more responsible pet owners and create a world where all animals receive the love, care, and respect they deserve.