How to treat mange in a cat caused by fleas? - briefly
Treat «flea‑induced mange» by applying a veterinarian‑approved flea eradication regimen combined with an acaricidal therapy to remove the mites. Follow with medicated shampoo, anti‑inflammatory drugs, and supportive skin care as prescribed.
How to treat mange in a cat caused by fleas? - in detail
Flea‑associated mange in cats requires a two‑fold approach: elimination of the ectoparasite and management of the skin condition it provokes.
Initial assessment should confirm the presence of fleas, flea feces (sand‑like particles), and characteristic lesions such as alopecia, crusted patches, and intense pruritus. Microscopic examination of skin scrapings may reveal secondary bacterial infection or demodex mites, which often coexist with flea‑induced dermatitis.
The primary objective is rapid flea eradication. Recommended products include:
- Topical spot‑on treatments containing imidacloprid, selamectin, or fluralaner, applied according to the manufacturer’s dosing schedule.
- Oral systemic agents such as afoxolaner or nitenpyram, administered on the prescribed interval.
- Environmental control using insect growth regulators (e.g., methoprene, pyriproxyfen) in carpets, bedding, and furniture; regular vacuuming and washing of all fabric items at ≥ 60 °C.
Concurrent therapy for the mange‑like skin lesions involves:
- Anti‑inflammatory medication: short‑term corticosteroids (prednisolone 0.5–1 mg/kg BID) or a single dose of dexamethasone to reduce pruritus.
- Antipruritic agents: antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine 2 mg/kg SID) or gabapentin (5–10 mg/kg BID) for severe itch.
- Antimicrobial treatment: topical chlorhexidine or systemic antibiotics (e.g., amoxicillin‑clavulanate) if secondary bacterial infection is documented.
- Skin barrier support: fatty‑acid supplements (omega‑3, omega‑6) and a hypoallergenic diet to minimize allergic response.
In cases where secondary demodicosis is identified, administration of ivermectin (0.2 mg/kg SID) or selamectin (as per label) for 4–6 weeks can suppress mite proliferation. Monitor liver enzymes during systemic macrocyclic lactone therapy.
Re‑evaluation after two weeks should assess flea counts, lesion improvement, and any adverse drug reactions. If lesions persist, consider a short course of oral azithromycin (10 mg/kg SID) for resistant bacterial colonization, and repeat skin scrapings to rule out persistent mite infestation.
Long‑term prevention hinges on continuous flea control throughout the cat’s life, combined with regular environmental decontamination and periodic health checks. This comprehensive protocol eliminates the source, alleviates skin pathology, and reduces the risk of recurrence.