How should skin mites in cats be treated? - briefly
Use a veterinarian‑prescribed acaricide (e.g., selamectin, ivermectin) at the recommended dose to eliminate the mites, and keep the cat’s environment clean by washing bedding and applying a suitable miticide. Regular follow‑up examinations confirm eradication and prevent recurrence.
How should skin mites in cats be treated? - in detail
Feline skin mite infestations require a systematic approach that combines accurate diagnosis, targeted medication, and environmental control.
A veterinarian should confirm the presence of mites through skin scrapings examined under a microscope. Identification of the species—commonly Notoedres cati (feline scabies) or Demodex spp.—guides therapeutic choice.
Pharmacologic options include:
- Topical agents: 1% lime sulfur dip applied once weekly for three weeks, or a 0.5% Selamectin solution administered according to label instructions.
- Systemic medications: Ivermectin at 0.2–0.4 mg/kg orally or subcutaneously, repeated after 14 days; alternatively, Doramectin at 0.2 mg/kg on the same schedule.
- Prescription shampoos: Benzoyl peroxide 5% or chlorhexidine‑based formulations used during baths, repeated every 48 hours for two weeks.
Adjunctive measures:
- Treat all animals in the household, even if asymptomatic, to prevent reinfestation.
- Clean bedding, grooming tools, and housing surfaces with hot water (≥60 °C) and a disinfectant effective against arthropods.
- Maintain a low‑stress environment; excessive stress can impair immune response and prolong recovery.
Monitoring involves weekly re‑examination of skin scrapings until no mites are detected. Persistent lesions after two treatment cycles warrant reevaluation for secondary bacterial infection, which may require topical or systemic antibiotics.
Owner education focuses on proper application of topical products, adherence to dosing intervals, and strict hygiene practices. Successful eradication relies on coordinated veterinary intervention and diligent home care.