Mange is a skin condition caused by tiny insects called mites. There are different types of mites and these cause different types of mange, but all have similar symptoms. Cat mange is uncommon but can be highly contagious, so early treatment is important. Mites live on or in the skin and can cause itching, inflammation, flaky skin and hair loss.

Two adult sarcoptic mange mites seen on microscopic examination of a skin scraping ©David Scarff

The different types of mite that can affect cats include: Demodectic mange: this is caused by demodex mites. Demodex mites may be found in small numbers in the hair follicles of healthy cats, but sometimes these mites can proliferate and become problematic. Sarcoptic mange: this is a type of mange caused by sarcoptes mites. Cats usually become infected with these through contact with an infected dog (canine scabies). Symptoms include sores, hair loss and itching. Notoedric mange: also known as feline scabies. This has similar symptoms to canine scabies but is caused by the Notoedres cati mite. It’s rare in the UK but highly contagious. The most affected areas are the edges of the ears and the face, which is why it’s often referred to as ‘head mange’. Otodectic mange: otodectes mites affect the ears. They can cause intense itching and can result in ear infections and damage to the ear drum. Some infected cats, however, show little sign of infection. Affected cats may be seen to scratch their ears and shake their head. Walking dandruff (Cheyletiellosis): cheyletiella mites may also be referred to as ‘fur mites’. These mites can be seen with the naked eye and look like small white flakes of skin, hence the name ‘walking dandruff’. If mites are present in large numbers, then loss of coat condition and excess dandruff can accumulate. Trombiculosis: commonly known as chiggers or harvest mites (Neotrombicula autumnalis), they’re seen mainly in autumn. Harvest mites live in rural areas and attach themselves onto passing cats. The mites lay eggs on the cat’s skin and the larvae then feed on blood. The larvae can be seen by the naked eye and look like tiny, red or bright orange oval dots. They tend to cluster around the ears, feet, belly or head.

In the early stages, you may not notice many signs of mange. As the condition progresses, the most common symptoms include excessive itching, hair loss and redness. There may also be some skin crusting or small bumps on the skin. Ear mites often cause an excessive build-up of wax that looks dark and dry. This can be seen in the ear or may fall out as the cat scratches and shakes its head. Severe mange can be really smelly.

Mange is more common in cats that spend time outdoors, but all cats are at risk. Most mites are transmitted through direct contact with an infected animal or indirectly from items like bedding. Some mites can be found in the environment and will latch on to a passing cat. Other mites, like most demodex mites, are naturally present on all cats in small numbers, which are controlled by the immune system. These mites only become a problem when the cat’s immune system isn’t working properly, then the mite numbers can grow.

Your veterinarian will need to carry out some tests to work out what type of mange your cat has. In most cases, they’ll take some skin scrapings to look at under a microscope. A skin scrape involves making a small graze on your cat’s skin, which may be slightly uncomfortable for them, but is necessary for diagnosis. Most mites and eggs are too small to be seen by the naked eye. Sometimes tape strippings of the coat will be taken to look for Demodex or fur mites, and ear wax samples to check for ear mites. Your veterinarian may also wish to take a blood sample to test for any underlying diseases.

Yes, mange can be easily treated! The type of treatment will depend on what mites your cat is infested with. If your cat has an underlying condition that’s affecting their immune system, this will also need treating. While treating cat mange, keep your cat isolated from any other pets. Your veterinarian may advise that you treat all animals in the household. Mites can live on bedding, toys, carpets and furniture for a limited time. Make sure to thoroughly wash any items your infected cat may have been in contact with to avoid the mites spreading. Don’t share grooming items that may have used on infected cats.

Mange is more common in places where cats congregate, this is because the mites can easily transmit from one cat to another. It’s difficult to keep your cat away from places like this, but some regular flea, tick and worm treatments are licensed to treat mange. These will help to reduce the risk for very social cats and those that love the great outdoors.

Some mites can affect humans, so keep an eye out for any symptoms and get in touch with your GP if you’re concerned.