What is Mange

Sarcoptic mange is caused by tiny microscopic mites that live on the skin of the host animal.  These mites will bite and burrow into the soft tissue under the skin.  They will wreak havoc on the infected animal by causing itchiness that leads to hair loss, usually covering a large portion of the animal’s body and sometimes causing complete hair loss.  The constant scratching and burrows of the mite cause oozing crusty sores that usually become infected.  Once the hair has fallen out, the infected skin will thickendevelop crusty wrinkles.

One of the worst parts of sarcoptic mange is how easy it is to contract and how quickly it can spread.  Mange is spread through contact with an infected animal.  Because canines are typically pack animals, they live in close quarters with other members and can spread the mite by a simply brushing up against each other.  During winter months when coyotes will huddle closer together at night for warmth is an excellent opportunity for the mite to spread to the other pack members.  Mothers of young pups can also easily spread mange to their offspring by nuzzling them. The mites that cause mange can take over entire parts of the animal’s body in a short amount of time.

Mange can be treated, especially if caught early enough.  Anti-parasidic medication can be applied or administered to the affected animal that will kill the mite.  Multiple doses are usually required to kill off the living mites, as well as any un-hatched mite eggs that may be in the skin in a bad case.

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Author: mkmcst

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