Notoedric Feline Mange is also known as feline scabies. It is a type of mange which is also infectious to humans, although it lasts for less time on human skin, so we only experience temporary itching.
What Are the Causes of Notoedric Feline Mange?
Like other kinds of mange, notoedric mange is caused by a particular species of mite called Notoedres cati. The skin irritation is caused by the females, who burrow into the skin to lay eggs after mating. The mites can be passed from cat to cat and can affect all breeds and ages. However, it is more common for outdoor cats to get feline scabies as they are more likely to come into contact with wild and stray animals.
The Symptoms of Notoedric Mange
The main symptom of notoedric mange is hair loss. If you see your cat losing hair, it is important to take it to the vet immediately. Other symptoms might include:
- Thickened, wrinkled skin
- Yellow crusting on the skin
- Secondary skin infections caused by the itching
- Enlarged lymph nodes
To diagnose notoedric mange, your vet will need to do a skin scraping.
How Ivermectin Can Help
Ivermectin is commonly used on dogs to treat sarcoptic mange. However, it has been proven successful for use on cats as well, to treat Notoedric Feline Mange.
It works by causing neurological damage in the parasite. This paralyses it and eventually causes death. The mites have a fairly short life cycle - about three weeks - but can lay several eggs at a time. Therefore it is important to complete the prescription cycle even if your cat seems to be better.
The drug is available over the counter but it is safer for your cat to get a prescription from your vet. That way, they can check if there are any other potential causes and prescribe the right dosage for your animal.
Potential Side Effects of Ivermectin
Ivermectin is generally a very safe drug with few side effects. It should not be given to young kittens and should always be administered under the supervision of a vet. If you think your cat is suffering any side effects associated with Ivermectin, seek advice from your vet immediately. Possible side effects include:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Swollen face
- Seizures
- Cold limbs
These are all signs of an allergic reaction to the drug. If your cat shows any of these symptoms, stop giving it the medication and contact your vet immediately.
Ivermectin is safe to use on animals that are pregnant or lactating. An overdose of Ivermectin can be toxic to your cat so it is important to make sure you are giving it the right dosage for its body weight. If in doubt, always check with your vet. Signs of Ivermectin toxicity are:
- Loss of appetite
- Dizziness and unsteady movements
- Howling and vocalizations
- Dilation of pupils
- Disorientation
- Blindness
- Tremors
If your cat shows any of these signs, contact your vet immediately.
Like all medicines, Ivermectin should be used with care. However, it is a proven way of curing Notoedric Feline Mange and will cure your cat of this parasitic infestation.