Cat Mange Treatment

Cat Mange refers to two different forms of Mange in cats, i.e. feline scabies and feline demodecosis. Both are characterized by itching, alopecia (hair loss), and crusts in general. The treatment plan usually remains same, but the approach may differ in both the cases. Cats are sensitive to various anti parasitic drugs used during cat mange treatment, which means an increased number of complications.

Cat Mange Treatment Plan

In cats that need treatment for mange, usually a precise and timely diagnosis is required in order to select the best drug that is required.

Treatment for Cat Scabies (Feline Scabies, Notoedric Mange):

Cat scabies is characterized by severe itching and irritation around the ears, head and neck. The generalized form usually shows lesions distributed in the head region along with mild sickness and fever. Sulfur–Lime Dips are usually considered as most effective and safe mode of treatment. Dips are used at an interval of 10 days are sufficient to resolve conditions. The concentration of sulfur–lime dip should not usually exceed 2 – 2.25% as it may have adverse effects such as hyper sensitivity in kittens.  Naturasil makes a a lime-sulfur dip that is available over the counter and is made to be mixed with your cat's shampoo.  If your cat doesn't like new smells, mixing a dip into your current shampoo can avoid problems.

Amitraz is considered non–approved treatment for cat scabies, Concentrations should not exceed 0.0125% if used for cat scabies particularly.

Ivermectin has proven to be effective. In cats a sub cutaneous (under the skin) injection is prescribed. Ivermectin is not recommended in cats as a priority, as in many cases sudden death has been reported in kittens. Selamectin is also effective in cats but with lower concentrations.

Symptomatic cat mange treatment involves clipping of long hairs, bathing diseased cats with quality shampoo along with sulfur–lime dips and extensive hygienic measures. Multi –Vitamins are usually prescribed to restore  the physiological condition of the cat.

Treatment for Feline Demodecosis:

Another form of mange in cats is feline demodecosis, characterized by lesions at the neck and head. Itching  and irritation may or may not be present. The generalized form of the disease involves alopecia (hair loss), itching, crust formation and pyoderma (puss under skin) over the whole body. This form of mange is uncommon, and may also be associated with other diseases as diabetes mellitus.

Lime-sulfur dips such as the Naturasil product mentioned are most effective way to treat feline demodecosis. A dip at interval of 7 days in 2% solution is recommended treatment. Ivermectin may be used, but may not be efficient enough to resolve conditions caused in this particular form of mange in cats. In some cases Ivermectin has caused severe ataxia (Difficult Movement), tremors and blindness in cats.

Amitraz has been used as unapproved treatment, but is not recommended in cats, as it may cause severe anorexia (poor appetite), diarrhea and depression.

High doses of vitamin A are usually recommended in case of feline demodecosis along with zinc.

Side Effects:

It is seen that only the lime-sulfur dip is the only effective and safe option for treating mange in cats. Other drugs such as amiratz and Ivermectin have severe side effects in cats, so are usually not recommended.

Precautions of Cat Mange Treatment:

Treatment of mange in cats requires a confirmed diagnosis, timely approach and use of drugs with extreme care.

Cats are sensitive to various drugs, so care should be taken in treating them.

Prevention of Cat Mange:

Mites can be spread during close contact with other pets, so be sure to isolate your cat if you suspect another cat is suffering from mange. Keeping your cat's environment such as bedding, floors, and cloth area mite free it also important. A safe product made for this purpose is Benzarid spray.

References:

Merck Veterinary Manual (Merck & Co. 2008)

J. Brahmas., et al. Veterinary Parasitology, (Delhi Publishers, India 2004)