Sarcoptic mange, commonly known as scabies, is caused by an external parasite that burrows deep into the skin. It is contagious to other pets and occurs in many different animals. It causes intense itchiness, especially affecting the ear margins, elbows, and face. It is contagious to people (scabies) and if it is suspected they should be examined by their physician.
It is important to note that the diagnosis of this skin condition, like most skin conditions, can not be made just by looking at a pet. Diagnostic tests are mandatory to arrive at a correct diagnosis and achieve a satisfactory outcome to therapy. Stating that an animal looks "mangey" is not the same thing as making a positive diagnosis of mange. Pets that have Ringworm or Demodex can look like they have Sarcoptic mange.
Sarcoptic mange is caused by a mite called Notoedres, a microscopic ectoparasite that burrows in to the skin.
This is a highly magnified view of this parasite as it appears under the microscope
The most prevalent symptom of sarcoptic mange is intense itching. This itching will inflame the skin and cause scabs with a secondary bacterial infection occurring due to the trauma. The areas most commonly affected are the ear margins, elbows, and face. Some pets will shake their ears excessively and cause an aural hematoma (swollen ear). These symptoms can mimic those of Demodex, so the rules of the diagnostic process should be carefully adhered to.
This cat has scabies, but you can't say that for sure just by looking at it.
The top of his head shows how irritating the problem is, especially at the ears.
This dog has scabies also.
The primary way to diagnose sarcoptic mange is to do a skin scraping where the patches of alopecia occur. Finding these mites under the microscope can be very difficult in this disease. A pet that has the symptoms of Sarcoptic mange and is negative on skin scrapings for the parasite can still have the disease. In these cases we commonly treat for the disease anyway, because the treatment is highly effective.
The newest and easiest method is a topical application of Revolution. Most pets decrease their scratching rapidly after the first application. A second monthly dose is often required. Monthly use of Revolution will control any subsequent sarcoptic mange mite infestations. All pets in a household should be treated regardless of whether they are showing symptoms or not. Pets that have secondary skin infections from the trauma might also be put on antibiotics.
This is a picture from the dog above 7 days after its first treatment.
Good nutrition and plenty of play and exercise are always important to maintain the proper balance to fight off disease. All pets in a household that has a pet diagnosed with or treated for this disease should also be treated.
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