Species of Cheyletiella Mites

• There are three species of mites that can cause Cheyletiella mange. Each species of mites is usually specific to an individual species of animals; however, in rare cases, cross-contamination may occur. "Cheyletiella blakei" is the species of mites that causes infestations in cats. "Cheyletiella yasguri" infests dogs, and "Cheyletiella parasitovorax" infects rabbits.
  
  

Symptoms of Cheyletiella Mange

• The most common symptom of Cheyletiella mange is a skin irritation that is associated with excessive dandruff, particularly on the back of the infected animal. Cheyletiella mange is commonly referred to as "walking dandruff" because the mites can be seen on the skin, as if they were "walking" beneath the dandruff.
  
  Additional symptoms of Cheyletiella mange include mild to severe hair loss, excessive itching and potential thickening of the skin. However, in some cases, an infected animal may not show any signs of infection.
  
  

Identifying Cheyletiella Mange

• Your veterinarian will use a microscope in order to identify the Cheyletiella mites. Under a microscope, you can see that these mites have 4 pairs of legs. They also have a large hook-like mouth, which can easily be seen with a microscope.
  
  

Treatment for Your Pet

• Once your veterinarian has determined that Cheyletiella mites are causing the mange, he will be able to prescribe an appropriate treatment. Available treatments will vary based on the severity of your cat's mange. Some common treatments for Cheyletiella mange include a weekly or bi-weekly pyrethrin dip, topical creams, oral antibiotics or medications that will need to be injected by your veterinarian. In most cases, treatment must be continued for 6 to 8 weeks to ensure that all of the mites have been removed.
  
  

Treatment for Your Home

• Your home should also be treated for a mite infestation simultaneously with the treatment of your cat. Wash your cat's bedding, combs and toys regularly to kill all of the eggs. It is also important to clean your home every day, including your bed, couches and other furniture that your cat may have touched.
  
  You must vacuum every day. Vacuuming is vital for removing eggs and mites that drop from your pet. Be sure to get into every place where your cat may hide, including under the couch and behind other furniture. Following an aggressive cleaning schedule will ensure that the mites are removed from your home.