Demodectic mange in dogs

Demodectic mange caused by demodectic mange mites is mainly a problem in dogs.

Demodectic mange mites are microscopic and not highly contagious. In general, domodex mites are not spread to other animals or across species. A mother dog, however, can pass mites to her puppies.{{more}}

Localized demodectic mange tends to appear in young dogs (usually less than six months old) as patches of scaly skin and redness around the eyes and mouth and , perhaps, the legs and trunk.

Itching is not common with this type of mite infestation unless a secondary infection has occurred. Unlike other types of mange, demodectic mange may signal an underlying medical condition, and your pet’s overall health should be carefully evaluated.

Less commonly, young and old dogs experience a more severe form of demodectic mange (generalized demodecosis) and can exhibit widespread patches of redness, hair-loss, and scaly, thickened skin. Dogs with demodecosis can develop secondary bacterial infections which require additional treatment.

Cats are rarely infected with demodex mites, and the cat demodex is not the same as the dog’s. Affected cats develop hair loss, crusts and scaly skin around the face, neck and eyelids, and may excessively groom the areas. They may be more itchy than dogs affected by demodex.

Demodectic mange is usually confirmed by taking skin scraping and examining under a microscope.

Treatment and control.

Your veterinarian will discuss treatment options with you. Treatment of dogs with localized demodectic mange generally results in favorable outcomes. Generalized demodecosis, however, may be difficult to treat, and treatment may only control the condition, rather than cure it.

For further information, contact:
Dr. Collin Boyle Unique Animal Care Co. Ltd.
Tel: 456 4981
Website: www.uniqueanimalcare.com