How can I treat a cat for mange mite? - briefly
Use a vet‑prescribed medication—topical (e.g., selamectin, lime‑sulfur dip) or oral (e.g., ivermectin)—according to the recommended dosage and treatment schedule, and thoroughly clean the cat’s bedding and environment. Continue monitoring the skin and repeat the course as instructed to achieve full resolution.
How can I treat a cat for mange mite? - in detail
Treating a cat infected with mange mites requires a systematic approach that combines diagnosis, medication, environmental control, and follow‑up care.
First, confirm the infestation through a veterinary skin scrape or acetate tape test. Identifying the specific mite species (Sarcoptes scabiei, Demodex cati, or Notoedres cati) determines the appropriate drug class.
Medication options include:
- Topical acaricides: Lime sulfur dips (1–2 % solution) applied to the entire coat, left on for 10–15 minutes, then rinsed. Repeat weekly for 2–3 weeks. Selamectin or moxidectin spot‑on products provide systemic coverage; apply according to label dosage, usually a single dose followed by a second dose 2 weeks later.
- Oral treatments: Ivermectin (0.2–0.4 mg/kg) given once daily for 7–10 days, or milbemycin oxime (0.5 mg/kg) administered once, then repeated after 2 weeks. Adjust dosage for kittens, pregnant queens, or cats with liver disease.
- Injectable options: Doramectin (0.2 mg/kg) administered subcutaneously, repeated after 14 days for resistant cases.
Supportive care should address secondary infections and skin irritation:
- Antibiotics: Broad‑spectrum agents (e.g., amoxicillin‑clavulanate) for bacterial pyoderma, prescribed for 7–14 days.
- Anti‑inflammatory drugs: Steroid‑sparing agents such as meloxicam or low‑dose prednisolone to reduce pruritus and inflammation, used under veterinary supervision.
- Skin soothing: Gentle hypoallergenic shampoos, oatmeal baths, or topical aloe‑based gels applied after each dip.
Environmental management is crucial to prevent reinfestation:
- Bedding and blankets: Wash at ≥60 °C or replace with new items.
- Household surfaces: Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and curtains; discard vacuum bags or clean canisters immediately.
- Other pets: Examine and treat cohabiting animals concurrently, even if asymptomatic.
Monitoring progress involves weekly re‑examinations. A successful outcome is indicated by the absence of new lesions, reduced scratching, and negative skin scrapings. If mites persist after two treatment cycles, consider alternative acaricides, combination therapy, or referral for specialist dermatology.
Finally, maintain a regular preventive schedule with monthly spot‑on products or oral preventatives to discourage future infestations.