How and with what to treat subcutaneous mite in a cat at home? - briefly
Apply a veterinary‑approved topical acaricide (e.g., selamectin, ivermectin) directly to the lesion and clean the site with a mild antiseptic solution. Maintain regular grooming and a hygienic living area to reduce the risk of reinfestation.
How and with what to treat subcutaneous mite in a cat at home? - in detail
Treating a subcutaneous mite infection in a cat at home requires accurate identification, targeted medication, thorough cleaning, and ongoing observation.
First, confirm the diagnosis. Look for a raised, firm nodule under the skin, often with a central punctum or sinus. A veterinary skin scrape or fine‑needle aspiration examined under a microscope will reveal the mite. If a professional visit is impossible, collect a sample with a sterile needle and send it to a diagnostic laboratory.
Second, choose an appropriate antiparasitic agent. The most effective options for subcutaneous infestations are:
- Ivermectin – oral or injectable formulation, dosage 0.2 mg/kg once daily for three days, then weekly for two weeks.
- Selamectin – topical spot‑on, 6 mg/kg applied to the skin at the base of the neck, repeated after one month.
- Moxidectin – oral chewable tablet, 0.2 mg/kg, administered on days 0, 7, and 14.
Select a product approved for feline use and verify the exact concentration on the label. Avoid off‑label use of products intended for dogs, as toxicity is higher in cats.
Third, prepare the affected area. Clean the lesion with a mild antiseptic solution (e.g., diluted chlorhexidine 0.05 %). Gently debride any crusts using sterile gauze. Apply a thin layer of a non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory ointment (e.g., meloxicam gel) to reduce swelling and discomfort.
Fourth, support the cat’s immune system and skin health:
- Provide a balanced, high‑protein diet enriched with omega‑3 fatty acids.
- Ensure constant access to fresh water.
- Administer a probiotic supplement (e.g., Enterococcus faecium) to maintain gut flora.
Fifth, monitor progress. Record lesion size, temperature, appetite, and activity daily. Expect noticeable improvement within 5–7 days; complete resolution may take 3–4 weeks. If the nodule enlarges, ulcerates, or the cat shows systemic signs (fever, lethargy), seek veterinary assistance promptly.
Finally, prevent reinfestation. Maintain a clean environment: wash bedding at 60 °C, vacuum carpets regularly, and treat all household cats with a preventive topical or oral ectoparasiticide according to the label schedule.