What Causes Mange in Dogs and How to Treat It
Mange is a skin disease in dogs caused by parasitic mites. Two primary types affect dogs: demodectic mange and sarcoptic mange. Understanding what triggers mange helps in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
Types of Mange in Dogs
- Demodectic Mange: Caused by Demodex mites living in hair follicles. Most dogs carry some Demodex mites, but in healthy animals, they don’t cause problems. When a dog’s immune system is compromised, mites proliferate, leading to skin irritation.
- Sarcoptic Mange (Scabies): Caused by Sarcoptes scabiei mites, this form is highly contagious and spreads between animals and even to humans.
What Triggers Mange in Dogs?
- Weakened Immune System: The inability to control parasite populations, especially in demodectic mange, is often due to immune dysfunction, hereditary factors, or underlying disease.
- Exposure to Infected Animals: Dogs can contract sarcoptic mange through contact with infested animals, commonly in shelters, kennels, or dog parks.
- Puppies and Elderly Dogs: Young and old dogs have less robust immune systems, making them more susceptible to mange.
- Stress and Poor Nutrition: Contributing factors that can lower immune defenses.
Symptoms of Mange
- Intense scratching and itching
- Hair loss, especially in patches
- Redness and inflammation
- Crusty, scabbed, or thickened skin
- Secondary skin infections
Note that sarcoptic mange often affects ears, elbows, and abdomen first, while demodectic mange may appear as isolated patches before generalizing.
Diagnosing Mange
Only a veterinarian can accurately diagnose mange, using:
- Skin scrapings
- Hair and skin cytology
- Clinical observation
- Skin biopsy in rare, severe cases
Because sarcoptic mange may not always show up in tests, diagnosis may require a trial of antiparasitic treatment.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the type and severity of mange.
Sarcoptic Mange:
- Topical or oral antiparasitic medication
- Treatment of all animals in contact
- Washing bedding and limiting exposure
Demodectic Mange:
- Topical or oral medications such as ivermectin or milbemycin
- Antibiotics for secondary skin infections
- Support for the immune system
- Treatment of underlying health issues
Home Remedies and Natural Approaches
Home remedies should only be considered with veterinary guidance.
- Oatmeal baths for itch relief
- Epsom salt foot soaks
- Olive oil or honey to soothe small dry patches
- Neem oil and turmeric — limited scientific support, consult a vet
These approaches do not cure mange but may help alleviate mild discomfort.
Prevention of Mange
- Regular vet visits and parasite prevention
- Maintaining a balanced diet
- Keeping living areas clean — wash bedding and disinfect surfaces
- Isolating infected pets to prevent spread
Mange in Humans
Sarcoptic mange can infect humans, presenting as scabies with intense itching and rash. Treatment requires prescription antiparasitic medication. Personal hygiene, avoiding scratching, and washing linens are essential.
Conclusion
Mange is a manageable condition, especially with early detection and appropriate care. Keep your dog healthy, maintain good hygiene, and visit your veterinarian at the first sign of skin problems. Avoid DIY treatments without professional input to ensure safe and effective recovery.
