Sarcoptic mange

Sarcoptic mange is also known as scabies.

Sarcoptes scabeii is the name of the mite that causes scabies, or contagious mange. These mites burrow in the skin and just a few mites can cause a severe hypersensitivity reaction. For this reason, scabies is one of the itchiest diseases of pets.

The mites tend to burrow in the skin at the tips of the ears, elbows, hocks, chest and belly. However, in a severe infestation, mites can cause problems over the entire body.

The mites are highly contagious to other pets and all in contact pets must be treated. Human family members may also experience bites but the mites are not adapted to human skin; thus, irritation is transient.

The mites survive off the pet for only a short period of time so routine cleaning of the pet’s environment and washing (or throwing away bedding) will help prevent re-infection. There are a variety of different products and protocols for treating sarcoptic mange.