What is feline demodicosis? - briefly
Feline demodicosis is a skin condition caused by mites called Demodex cati, which are normally present in small numbers on healthy cats. When these mites proliferate excessively, they can cause localized or generalized hair loss, redness, and itching, leading to a diagnosis of feline demodicosis.
What is feline demodicosis? - in detail
Feline demodicosis, also known as feline demodectic mange or red mange, is a skin condition caused by the mite Demodex cati. This microscopic parasite naturally inhabits the hair follicles of cats and typically does not cause any issues unless the cat's immune system is compromised. When the immune system weakens, the mites can proliferate excessively, leading to inflammation and irritation of the skin.
The condition is relatively rare in healthy adult cats but can be more prevalent in kittens and cats with underlying health issues such as feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) or feline leukemia virus (FeLV). The exact cause of demodicosis is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to an impaired immune response that fails to keep the mite population in check.
Symptoms of feline demodicosis can vary and may include hair loss, usually starting around the head and neck area, redness, scaling, and sometimes secondary bacterial infections. The severity of symptoms depends on the extent of the mite infestation and the overall health of the cat. In some cases, cats may exhibit no visible signs at all, making diagnosis more challenging.
Diagnosis is typically made through a skin scraping test, where a small sample of affected skin is examined under a microscope for the presence of mites. Treatment options depend on the severity of the condition and can range from topical medications to systemic therapies. In mild cases, medicated shampoos or dips may be sufficient to control the mite population. For more severe cases, oral medications such as ivermectin or milbemycin oxime might be prescribed. It is crucial to follow veterinary advice and complete the entire course of treatment to ensure that all mites are eliminated.
While feline demodicosis can be distressing for both cats and their owners, it is important to remember that with prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment, most cats can make a full recovery. Regular veterinary check-ups and maintaining good overall health can help prevent the onset of this condition.