You may have come across images depicting stray dogs or cats suffering from significant hair loss and scabby skin. Often, these animals are afflicted with mange, a skin disease caused by parasitic mites. While commonly associated with homeless or wild animals, mange can also affect our beloved pets, although it is less frequently seen in well-cared-for animals.
Mange is essentially a skin infestation caused by tiny parasitic mites. These mites primarily cause intense itching and skin irritation. While most prevalent in dogs, mange can also affect cats, wild animals, and even humans in some forms. Transmission typically occurs through direct contact with an infested animal or through exposure to a contaminated environment.
Types of Mange: Sarcoptic and Demodectic
There are two main types of mange that affect pets: Sarcoptic mange, commonly known as scabies, and Demodectic mange, also referred to as demodex mange.
Sarcoptic Mange (Scabies)
Sarcoptic mange, or scabies, is a highly contagious form of mange caused by Sarcoptes scabiei, a circular, eight-legged mite. This particular mite is zoonotic, meaning it can be transmitted between dogs and also from dogs to humans. However, while it can affect humans, it doesn’t typically thrive on human skin and infestations are usually self-limiting.
The symptoms of sarcoptic mange arise when these mites burrow into the skin to lay their eggs. Subsequently, the larvae and nymphs feed on the dog’s skin, leading to significant irritation. Symptoms usually manifest between 10 days and 8 weeks after initial exposure and can include:
- Intense Itching (Pruritus): This is a hallmark symptom, often causing relentless scratching and discomfort.
- Redness and Rash: The skin becomes inflamed and irritated, often presenting with a noticeable rash.
- Crusty Scabs: Yellowish, crusty scabs develop on the affected areas due to skin damage and exudate.
- Hair Loss (Alopecia): Scratching and skin damage lead to patches of hair loss.
- Secondary Infections: Bacterial and yeast infections can occur due to the compromised skin barrier from mite activity and scratching.
- Skin Thickening (Lichenification): Chronic irritation can cause the skin to thicken and become leathery.
- Swollen Lymph Nodes (Lymphadenopathy): The body’s immune system responds, sometimes leading to inflammation of the lymph nodes.
- Weight Loss (Emaciation): In severe, untreated cases, persistent discomfort and secondary issues can lead to weight loss.
The initial signs of sarcoptic mange often appear on a dog’s ears, chest, elbows, hocks (ankles), and abdomen. Early detection and prompt treatment of scabies are crucial for effectively managing the infection and preventing further complications and spread.
