There are many types of mites that infect dogs, cats, and other mammals. Mites can be present on birds and reptiles as well. Mites are microscopic arthropod parasites that, for the most part, infect the skin or mucous membranes. The most common mite that infects dogs and cats are Otodectes (ear mites), Demodex, Scabies, and Cheyletiella.
Ear mites are very common in cats, but are very rarely seen on dogs. Ear mites live primarily in the ear canals and can cause severe irritation. Ear mites are easily transmitted from cat to cat through grooming, so if they are found in one cat, all cats in the household should be treated. A different species of ear mite can infect rabbits.
Demodex is a mite that all dogs are exposed to, but only causes disease in a small percentage of them. Demodex naturally lives on dogs in very small numbers, it is only when the mites are able to multiply into large numbers that we see disease.
In young puppies, Demodex usually causes small areas of hair loss especially on the head and front legs. Adult dogs tend to show more generalized symptoms, and usually have more red and itchy skin lesions. Adult dogs that develop Demodex usually have an underlying disease such as hypothyroidism, Cushing’s, or cancer that suppresses their immune system and allows the Demodex to increase in numbers. Cats have their own species of Demodex, but the disease is much rarer in cats.
Scabies is a skin disease in dogs and people caused by the mite Sarcoptes. Scabies is also known as sarcoptic mange. Most dogs with this disease are intensely itchy. Scabies is highly contagious, and can be a zoonotic disease-meaning that dogs can potentially transmit the mite to people.
Cheyletiella is a species of mite that can be seen in rabbits and dogs. Symptoms of Cheyletiella can be seen as large flakes of scaly skin and is sometimes called “walking dandruff”. Cheyletiella causes significant itchiness.
There is no one treatment that will kill all the types of mites discussed here. Therefore, we will advise you on the best treatment option for the type of mite your pet has.