Ever seen a dog or cat scratching nonstop and losing patches of fur? That might not just be a bad hair day — it could be mange. This skin condition sounds like something from an old farm tale, but it’s still surprisingly common today. And yes, even your beloved pet can get it!
What Exactly Is Mange?
Mange is a skin disease caused by tiny parasitic mites that burrow into an animal’s skin, leading to severe itching, redness, and hair loss. It affects many mammals — from household pets like dogs and cats to wildlife such as foxes and coyotes.
There are two main types:
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Sarcoptic mange (scabies) – highly contagious, caused by Sarcoptes scabiei mites.
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Demodectic mange (demodex) – caused by Demodex mites that normally live on the skin but can overgrow if the immune system is weak.
The word mange actually comes from the Old French word mangene, meaning “itch.” Pretty accurate, right?
How Animals Get Mange
Mange spreads mostly through direct contact with infected animals. That’s why stray or neglected dogs often suffer from it — close quarters and poor hygiene make it easy for mites to spread.
Here’s how it typically happens:
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A healthy animal comes into contact with one carrying mites.
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The mites transfer and start burrowing into the skin.
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The immune system reacts, leading to scratching, scabs, and hair loss.
In some cases, humans can catch a mild, temporary form of mange called zoonotic scabies, but don’t worry — it usually clears up once the source (like an infected pet) is treated.
Symptoms to Watch Out For
If your pet seems unusually itchy, it’s worth checking for these telltale signs of mange:
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Intense scratching and biting of the skin
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Patches of missing fur
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Red or crusty skin
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Bad odor from secondary infections
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Restlessness or irritability
A vet can confirm mange through a skin scraping test and prescribe treatment such as medicated shampoos, oral medication, or topical creams.
Did You Know? 🐾
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Ancient Egyptians recorded cases of mange in dogs over 4,000 years ago!
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Mange mites are microscopic, meaning you can’t see them without a microscope — just their effects.
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Wild foxes with mange often lose their thick tails first, making them look oddly “bare.”
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Many animal shelters treat mange successfully, and affected pets often make full recoveries with proper care.
What Is Mange in the Wild?
Even wild animals suffer from mange outbreaks. Coyotes and foxes are especially prone, and it can cause population declines when left unchecked. Sadly, animals in the wild can’t access treatment, so mange can spread rapidly.
Some wildlife organizations set up feeding stations with medicated food to help reduce suffering and control outbreaks humanely.
Can Humans Get Mange?
Sort of — but not the same type that affects animals long-term. Humans can catch human scabies, which is caused by a similar mite species. If a person handles a mange-infected pet, they might develop temporary itching or rash. Luckily, it goes away once the mites die off and the pet is treated.
I once fostered a rescued puppy with severe mange — her skin was red and patchy, and she looked so sad. After a few weeks of medicated baths and love, her fur started growing back. Watching her transform reminded me that mange isn’t a life sentence. With the right care, animals can heal and thrive again.
So, what is mange really? It’s a pesky but treatable skin condition caused by mites that irritate animals and sometimes spread to humans. The good news: with proper hygiene, veterinary care, and compassion, pets can bounce back beautifully.
Have you ever cared for an animal with mange? Share your experience or tips in the comments below — your story might help someone else’s furry friend!