What is Mange?
A skin condition caused by microscopic mites, causing intense itching, hair loss, and skin lesions; some forms are contagious to humans.
Mange is the common name for skin conditions caused by mites. The two most common forms in dogs are sarcoptic mange, caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei, which is highly contagious between animals and has zoonotic potential (it can cause temporary itching in humans), and demodectic mange, caused by the mite Demodex canis, which normally already lives in small numbers on the skin of healthy dogs and only causes disease when the animal's immune system is compromised — which is why it is not considered contagious in the same way sarcoptic mange is.
Symptoms include itching (intense in sarcoptic mange, sometimes milder in demodectic mange), redness, hair loss in specific or widespread areas, crusting and thickened skin, and lesions that can become secondarily infected with bacteria if the animal scratches and breaks the skin. Demodectic mange usually appears in puppies with an immature immune system or in adult dogs with an underlying condition that reduces immunity.
Diagnosis is made through a skin scraping examined under a microscope, and treatment uses specific antiparasitic medications, which can take weeks to months depending on the extent and type of mange. See a veterinarian if a pet has intense, persistent itching, patchy hair loss, or skin lesions that are not improving, especially if other animals in the household also begin showing itching.
Important notice
This calculator is for educational purposes and does not replace a veterinary evaluation. When in doubt, consult a veterinarian.Related terms
Ectoparasite
A parasite that lives on the surface of an animal's body, such as fleas, ticks, and mites, which can cause itching, allergies, and transmit other diseases.
Dermatitis
A general term for skin inflammation, with many possible causes — allergies, parasites, infections, or irritants — that causes itching, redness, and discomfort.