Is Mange Contagious to Cats?
A question that many cat owners ask and are surprised to learn is that, yes, cats can get mange. Preventing mange is a matter of knowing what to look for, and treating the condition is about identifying the problem early on. While mange is not common in cats, some cats are more susceptible than others.
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Misconceptions
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There is the misconception that cats cannot and do not get mange. While it is not common for cats to get mange, it certainly is possible. It's important for people who have cats or pets that spend time around cats to realize that it is possible for cats to have mange.
Identification
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Identification of mange is important for proper treatment to take place. Mange in cats is generally associated with itching as well as hair loss. In addition, the cat may have raw, red, angry skin on parts of its body that become infected. Many cats struggle with mites in their ears, which may be identified as mange.
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Effects
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The effects of mange are widespread and different from cat to cat. Generally, mange just makes the cat very uncomfortable. An infected cat usually has uncontrolled itching that leads to scratching, and eventually raw skin that is open and susceptible to infection, especially in cats that are elderly or have suppressed immune systems.
Significance
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Mange is significant because it can be contagious, spread from cat to cat, and can also be a factor in the death of a cat. If mange is not treated it can make a cat's life uncomfortable, and depending on its overall health, could contribute to the cat's ailing health and even its death.
Types
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There are two types of mange that cats can and do get. The first, Demodex mange, is not a contagious form. Many cats live with this type of mange without suffering or showing any symptoms. The other type is called Sarcoptic mange. This type is very contagious, and often requires treatments by a veterinarian to cure it. The type of mange a cat has can be determined by looking at the cat's skin under a microscope.
Risk Factors
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Any cat can develop mange at any point in its life, but some cats are more at risk than others. Cats more at risk of contracting mange include those that are aging, immune suppressed, pregnant or nursing, and cats that are not spayed or neutered.
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