How should demodectic mites be treated? - briefly
Effective control uses topical or systemic acaricides—e.g., ivermectin, selamectin, or amitraz—along with routine skin cleansing and environmental decontamination. Continue therapy for several weeks until microscopic examinations confirm mite elimination.
How should demodectic mites be treated? - in detail
Demodectic mites (Demodex spp.) inhabit hair follicles and sebaceous glands, causing dermatitis, alopecia, and secondary infections when populations become excessive. Effective control requires accurate diagnosis, targeted therapy, and maintenance of skin health.
Diagnosis relies on microscopic examination of skin scrapings, tape impressions, or biopsies to confirm mite density. Treatment plans differ according to species (D. canis, D. gatoi, D. cati, D. folliculorum) and severity of clinical signs.
Therapeutic options
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Topical acaricides
Amitraz 0.025 % solution applied to the affected area once daily for 2–4 weeks, then reduced to twice weekly for maintenance.
Mite‑specific shampoos containing benzoyl peroxide (5 %) or chlorhexidine (4 %) used two to three times weekly to reduce surface mite load. -
Systemic medications
Ivermectin administered subcutaneously at 0.2–0.4 mg/kg weekly for 4–6 weeks, then monthly for long‑term suppression.
Milbemycin oxime given orally at 0.5 mg/kg once monthly provides both endoparasite and mite control.
Fluralaner (oral chewable) at 25–56 mg/kg provides a 12‑week protection interval, suitable for animals with recurrent infestations. -
Adjunctive care
Anti‑inflammatory drugs (e.g., prednisolone 0.5–1 mg/kg daily or non‑steroidal alternatives) reduce pruritus and erythema during the acute phase.
Antibiotics targeted at secondary bacterial infections (e.g., amoxicillin‑clavulanate 20 mg/kg BID) prevent complications.
Skin barrier support using fatty‑acid supplements (omega‑3, omega‑6) and moisturising emollients improves healing. -
Environmental management
Regular washing of bedding, grooming tools, and living areas with hot water (>60 °C) eliminates residual mites.
Vacuuming and application of acaricidal sprays to the environment reduce reinfestation risk.
Monitoring and follow‑up
Re‑evaluate mite counts after 2 weeks of therapy; if density remains above diagnostic thresholds, extend the treatment duration or combine topical and systemic agents. Long‑term prophylaxis, typically monthly ivermectin or fluralaner, is recommended for animals with a history of demodicosis.
Successful eradication hinges on consistent application of acaricidal regimens, control of secondary inflammation, and strict hygiene measures.