Introduction
“Mange” is a general term that actually refers to several different skin disorders caused by several different species of parasitic mites. The Sarcoptes scabei mites cause a nonseasonal, highly contagious and intensly pruritic (itchy) condition in dogs of all breeds, with no age or gender predisposition. Humans can be infected as well. These mites burrow through several layers of skin and not only mechanically irritate affected animals, but also produce irritating allergic substances that exacerbate the hypersensitivity (allergic) reaction. If left untreated, secondary bacterial infections often accompany mite infestation. If your dog suddenly shows signs of intense itching, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible. Timely treatment will stop the spread of these nasty parasites to other animals in the household, and your dog will be relieved of the pain, and intense itching, that they cause.
Symptoms of Mange
Clinical signs of “mange” caused by Sarcoptes scabei mites almost always include severe itching, scratching and hair loss. Ironically, these mites prefer areas of the skin where there is minimal hair, so the itching and scratching often are most intense on the ears, elbows, under the “arms,” on the back of the hind legs, on the hocks, chest and across the groin and belly area. As the mites multiply, and the dog continues to scratch, the skin will become red, inflamed, infected and sore.
Untreated mange can lead to severe skin infections due to the scratching and accompanying allergic reaction to the mites. Red bumps full of puss (called “pustules”) can appear on the skin, which also may darken, thicken and develop a leathery appearance. Self-inflicted wounds caused by scratching are especially prone to developing secondary bacterial infections.
Prolonged infection by the Sarcoptes scabei mite can lead to depression, aggression, lack of interest in activities or play, reduced appetite, weight loss and a number of other physical and behavioral changes. The skin of infected dogs can become dry, cracked and brittle, and hair in affected areas can fall out. In extremely severe cases, the dog’s skin can actually slough off in small pieces, which obviously is very distressing to owners.
If your pet has been diagnosed with sarcoptic mange, it is important for you to follow the treatment plan recommended by your veterinarian. Because this type of mange is highly contagious, all pets in the household should be treated even if they are not showing clinical signs of infection.