Mange

Mange is a severely contagious, itchy skin problem that may affect both pets and humans. Mange is caused by mites, which are small parasitic bugs that spread through skin-to-skin contact or contact with items such as toys and grooming products. Regardless of what is causing your pet’s case of mange, the symptoms are always the same. If you think your pet has mange, the animal care professionals at Veterinary Outpatient Treatment Center are ready to assist you.

Cause of Mange

Although several types of mites may latch on to their host, they all cause significant discomfort The most common types of mange in cats and dogs include:

• Ear mites
• Demodex
• Walking dandruff
• Trombiculosis
• Fur mites

Symptoms of Mange

The most common symptom of mange is constant, uncontrollable itching. Other skin problems may cause itching, but none cause itching as severe as mange. As the mite infestation worsens, the chewing, biting, and licking also worsen. It will eventually interfere with your pet’s typical behaviors, such as sleeping and eating. If you notice your pet constantly itching and chewing and biting at skin, you should have your pet examined by your veterinarian right away. Other symptoms may include:

• Sleeping difficulties: Mites are generally the most active at night, especially scabies mites which tend to burrow into the skin and reproduce at night.
• Fur loss: Mangy pets will ultimately lose their fur due to the constant licking, biting, and scratching.
• Skin rash: You may notice a rash that spreads over your pet’s body as the infestation worsens, and they may develop sores and scratches that could become infected causing an oozing, yellowish crust.
• Bad odor: The odor, which is a typically musty and unpleasant smell, which is from a complication known as seborrhea, an excess of bacteria and yeast that feed on a fatty substance known as sebum irritated skin.
• Poor health: Severely mangy pets will appear to be in extremely poor health. As the mange progresses, there will often be weight loss, enlarged lymph nodes, fever, vision loss, weakness, hearing loss, cat stomach problems, and serious gastrointestinal issues.

Schedule an Appointment with Our Veterinarian in Medford, NY

If you suspect your pet may have mange, contact the Veterinary Outpatient Treatment Center in Medford, NY to schedule an appointment with a veterinarian as soon as possible. Call us today at (631) 730-6929 for more information or to schedule an appointment with our veterinarian.