Home Treatment of Notoedric Mange in Felines
Notoedric mites are microscopic eight-legged insects that live for two to three weeks, reproduce quickly, and can build large populations quickly in a cat's coat. Notoedric mites only affect cats, but cause many of the same symptoms as sarcoptic mites in dogs. Although vets generally prescribe toxic miticide dips to treat mites, many owners choose home remedies instead.
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Notoedric Mange Facts
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According to PetEducation, feline mange is specifically caused by the mite Notoedres cati. The mites affect cats the same way they affect dogs, by living on their skin, building burros and sucking their blood. Notoedric mites are extremely contagious, and pass from cat to cat through physical contact and shared bedding and environments.
Symptoms
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Feline mange displays first as hair loss and itching around the face and ears. These symptoms spread onto the neck, then down to the cat's chest. Skin becomes thick and crusty, and may develop secondary infections and pustules. A cat may also experience enlarged lymph nodes.
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Home Medicated Washes
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Many owners choose to mix their own medicated wash rather than using one from the vet. Mix hydrogen peroxide with warm water and borax powder and use it as a rinse. Allow the mixture to dry on the cat's skin, and reapply it once a week until the mange is gone.
Househould Products
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Many household products also treat mites and their damage. Cooking oil and liquid soap both soften the scabs of mange, and work to suffocate and eliminate mites. Spread a small amount of oil or soap over mange areas and rub it in. Repeat the treatment every several days to eliminate mange.
Nutrition and Grooming
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One of the most important aspects of treating mange and preventing it is consistent grooming. Mange mites infest cats that have dirty, matted fur, but have trouble settling on clean, well-groomed cats. Consistent brushing prevents parasite infestation. High-quality nutrition also prevent parasites such as mites, which attack animals who are malnourished or immunosuppressed. Owners switch cats to high-quality diets, with an increase in fresh meat and raw vegetables, to increase a cat's health and decrease the chances of mite infestations.
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References
- Photo Credit House Cat image by phizics from Fotolia.com
