Mange

Mange is a skin disease caused by microscopic mites that burrow into the skin to lay their eggs. Several species of mites cause mange, but each one affects a different species of animal. While the presence of mites doesn’t always cause mange, animals with weakened immune systems can develop visible infestations that lead to severe skin irritation and hair loss. 

Mange-causing mites are slow-moving and require prolonged contact to crawl onto a new host. Exposure can occur by spending time with infested animals or in areas infested with mites. Mites can survive for several weeks without a host, particularly in humid, low-temperature environments.

For more information about mange, check out this Disease Fact Sheet.

Mange can affect both wild and domestic mammals. Wild animals that are susceptible include red foxes, coyotes, white-tailed deer, gray and fox squirrels and black bears. Only the mites that affect red foxes and coyotes (sarcoptic mites) are known to cause any health issues in humans and pets. and these instances are rare and easily treatable with medication.

The primary sign of mange is hair loss and thinning which can occur in patches across the entire body. Mange can also cause skin thickening and scabbing, particularly in areas that have already lost significant amounts of fur. Animals with severe infestations may act lethargic or distracted due to constant pain and itching in the affected areas. 

Most healthy animals that contract mites never develop mange or can overcome a light infestation with very few lasting side effects. However, the condition can be fatal in smaller mammals (e.g. squirrels) or heavily infected animals that have lost substantial amounts of fur and are unable to keep warm during cold weather. Red foxes, in particular, are susceptible to severe infestations.

It is rare for humans and pets to contract mange from wild animals. Mange can be prevented by avoiding direct contact with infested animals or areas where those animals have been laying. Mange in humans and domestic pets is highly treatable with medication. Infestations in humans typically appear as a rash which resolves itself in one to two weeks’ time.