Untreated demodectic mange can lead to hair loss, inflammation, sores, and other health problems. Thankfully, it is treatable with medication, though it can be a challenge to get rid of the condition completely. How to treat mange in dogs? Let’s find out.
Mange in Dogs – What Is That?
Mange is a skin condition caused by microscopic mites. There are different types of mange, each caused by a different type of mite. The most common types of mange in dogs are demodectic mange and sarcoptic mange.
The skin lesions are usually localized to one area of the body, typically the head, neck, elbows or paws. But in severe cases, the mites can spread over the entire body. So, how to treat mange in dogs?
Types of Mange in Dogs
There are two main types of mange in puppies: demodectic mange and sarcoptic mange.
Demodectic mange, also known as demodicosis or red mange, is the most common type of mange in dogs. It is caused by the Demodex mite, a tiny, eight-legged creature that lives in the hair follicles of dogs. Demodectic mange is not contagious and is usually seen in young dogs.
Sarcoptic mange, also known as scabies, is a highly contagious skin condition caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite. This mite burrows into the skin, causing intense itching and irritation. Sarcoptic mange is less common in dogs than demodectic mange, but can affect dogs of any age.
Symptoms of Mange in Dogs
The symptoms of mange depend on the type of mange and the severity of the infestation.
Demodectic mange usually starts as a few patches of hair loss. These bald patches may be itchy or red, and they can spread quickly. In severe cases, demodectic mange can cause crusted skin, sores, and secondary infections.
Sarcoptic mange usually starts with intense itching and hair loss. The skin may be red and crusty, and secondary infections are common. Sarcoptic mange is very uncomfortable for dogs and can cause serious health problems if left untreated.
How to Diagnose Mange in Dogs?
Mange is usually diagnosed by a veterinarian based on the symptoms and the results of a skin scrape. A skin scrape is a quick and painless test that involves taking a small sample of skin and looking at it under a microscope. This test can help to confirm the presence of mites. How to treat mange in dogs? That depends.
How to Treat Mange in Dogs: Demodectic Mange
Demodectic mange is treated with medicated baths and topical medications. In severe cases, oral medication or injections may also be necessary.
The goal of treatment is to kill the mites and heal the skin. This can be a challenge, as Demodex mites are very resilient. Treatment often needs to be continued for several weeks, even after the symptoms have resolved.
How to Treat Mange in Dogs: Sarcoptic Mange
Sarcoptic mange may be treated with oral or injectable medication. Medicated baths and topical medications may also be necessary. Treatment can be challenging, as the mites are highly contagious and can quickly reinfect your dog. Treatment often needs to be continued for several weeks to prevent re-infestation.
Home Treatment for Mange
How to treat mange in dogs at home? There is no home treatment for mange. Mange is a serious condition that needs to be treated by a veterinarian. But there are things you can do to help your dog recover faster.
- Make sure to follow your veterinarian’s instructions for treatment.
- Keep your dog clean and dry.
- Give your dog plenty of rest.
- Provide your dog with a nutritious diet.
Is Dog Mange Contagious to Humans?
No, dog mange is not contagious to humans. The mites that cause mange are species-specific, meaning they can only infect one type of animal. So, while you can’t get mange from your dog, it’s important to be aware that other animals can get it from them. If you have another pet, make sure to have them checked by a veterinarian if you think your dog has mange.
How to Prevent Mange in Other Dogs?
Mange is a highly contagious condition, so it’s important to take steps to prevent it from spreading. If your dog has mange, keep them away from other animals until they’ve been treated. This includes not only other dogs, but also cats, rabbits, and other pets. You should also avoid sharing bedding or toys with your dog during this time.
Is Mange Possible to Prevent?
Now you know how to treat mange in dogs, but how can you prevent it? There is no sure way to prevent mange, as the mites that cause it are very contagious. But there are some things you can do to reduce your dog’s risk of getting it.
Mange is more common in dogs that are sick or have a weakened immune system. So, keeping your dog healthy and up-to-date on their vaccinations can help to reduce their risk.
Mange is also more common in dogs that live in crowded or dirty conditions. So, keeping your dog’s environment clean and free of debris can help to prevent it.
Mange is a serious condition, but it can be treated. With proper treatment, most dogs make a full recovery. But it’s important to catch mange early, as it can cause serious health problems if left untreated.
Similar Skin Diseases
There are several other skin conditions that can cause similar symptoms to mange. These include allergies, parasites, bacterial infections, and fungal infections. So, it’s important to have your dog seen by a veterinarian to rule out these other conditions.
What Is the Recovery Time for Mange?
The recovery time for mange depends on the severity of the condition and how early it is caught. Mild cases of mange can clear up in a few weeks with proper treatment. But more severe cases can take months to resolve.
Once your dog has been treated for mange, they may still be contagious for a few weeks. So, it’s important to continue to take precautions to prevent the spread of the mites and secondary skin infections.
Is There a Vaccine Against Mange?
There is no vaccine against mange. But there are some things you can do to reduce your dog’s risk of getting it. You should:
- Keep your dog up-to-date on their vaccinations. This will help to keep their immune system strong.
- Mange is more common in dogs that live in crowded or dirty conditions. So, keeping your dog’s environment clean and free of debris can help to prevent it.
- Avoid sharing bedding or toys with your dog if they have mange. This will help to prevent the spread of the mites.
Oral or Topical Treatment?
How to treat mange in dogs – with pills or ointments? Mange can be treated with either oral or topical medication. The type of medication your dog needs will depend on the severity of their mange. Mild cases can often be treated with topical medication, while more severe cases may require oral medication.
Your veterinarian will likely prescribe a course of both types of mange treatment. This is because the oral medication will kill the mites, while the topical medication will help to soothe your dog’s skin and speed up the healing process.
