Treating Cheyletiellosis in Cats

Does your cat have Cheyletiellosis, also known as walking dandruff? This condition, caused by ticks biting into the skin, can cause extreme itching and discomfort for your furry friend. Not only does it cause itching and peeling, but it can also lead to red, rough skin. But don’t worry, there are many effective treatments available to kill these mites and give your cat some relief. In this article, BEACONPET will explore the causes, symptoms, diagnostic methods, and treatment options for Cheyletiellosis in cats. We will also discuss how to prevent future infections and address any concerns about the contagiousness of this condition. So if you want to help your cat get rid of dandruff on the go, keep reading!

What Is Cheyletiellosis?

Cheyletiellosis, also known as walking dandruff, is a condition in cats that is caused by skin-biting mites. These mites infest a cat’s skin and coat, leading to itching, flaking, and red, bumpy skin. The movement of the mites among the cat’s flaky fur gives the impression that the dandruff is alive and moving, hence the nickname “walking dandruff.” Treatment is necessary to eradicate the mites and relieve the discomfort they cause. While humans are not a natural host for these mites, they can live on humans for a few weeks, causing an itchy rash.

Symptoms of Cheyletiellosis in Cats

The symptoms of cheyletiellosis can vary in severity, depending on the sensitivity of the cat. Some common symptoms include:

• Scaling of the skin (dandruff): This is one of the most noticeable signs of cheyletiellosis. The cat’s skin may have a flaky appearance, similar to dandruff.
• Scratching (itchiness): Cats with cheyletiellosis will often scratch themselves excessively, trying to relieve the itchiness caused by the mites.
• Reddened skin: The infested areas of the cat’s skin may appear red and inflamed.
• Small bumps on the skin: Raised bumps or lumps may be present on the cat’s skin, especially in areas where the infestation is concentrated.
• Scabs from scratching: The constant scratching can lead to the formation of scabs on the skin.
• Mild hair loss: While hair loss is not a major symptom of cheyletiellosis, scratching can lead to thinning and patches of hair loss.

These symptoms are often most prominent along the cat’s back and sides, but the cat may scratch and chew other areas as well.

Causes of Cheyletiellosis in Cats

Cheyletiella mites are generally contracted through direct contact with an infested animal. The infection is most likely to occur in environments such as pet shelters, catteries, and feral cat colonies. Both the mites and their eggs can survive for a short time in the environment, about 10 days, which means that infestations can be contracted from various objects like bedding, toys, furniture, or other items harboring the mites.

How Do Vets Diagnose Cheyletiellosis in Cats?

Diagnosing cheyletiellosis in cats can be challenging. Sometimes, the mites themselves can be seen moving about on the cat’s skin, but they can also be difficult to find. To confirm the diagnosis, a veterinarian may perform the following:

• Examining skin scrapings or dandruff samples: Scrapings of the skin or samples of dandruff can be examined under a microscope to look for the presence of the mites or their eggs.
• Finding mite eggs in fecal samples: Mite eggs can also be found in fecal samples because the cat swallows them during self-grooming.
• Veterinarian’s instincts: In some cases, if neither mites nor eggs can be identified, a veterinarian may have a “gut feeling” about the presence of cheyletiella based on the signs and symptoms.
• Trial treatment: If there is still uncertainty, a trial treatment can be done to confirm or rule out cheyletiellosis. If the cat improves with the treatment, then the diagnosis is likely correct.

Treatment for Cheyletiellosis

Treating cheyletiellosis involves a comprehensive approach that includes treating the affected pet and the household environment. All pets in the home should be treated simultaneously, even if they do not show symptoms, to prevent re-infestation. Treatment options may include:

• Topical treatments: Certain topical treatments, such as selamectin (brand name Revolution), can be applied to the cat’s skin to kill the mites.
• Oral medications: Oral medications like milbemycin (brand name Interceptor) or ivermectin can be prescribed to treat the infestation systemically.
• Treating the household environment: It is crucial to treat the cat’s environment to eliminate any mites or eggs that may be present. This may involve washing bedding, vacuuming furniture, and using products designed to kill mites and remove them from the environment.
• Follow your vet’s advice: It is essential to follow your veterinarian’s instructions on which products to use for your cat and how to apply them safely. Certain treatments can be toxic if not used correctly, so it’s crucial to follow the recommended application guidelines.

Treating cheyletiellosis can be time-consuming, and if mites take refuge in the nasal passages, topical treatments may not be as effective as oral medications, which are absorbed into the body.

Prognosis for Cats with Cheyletiellosis

With proper treatment, cats with cheyletiellosis can recover within a matter of weeks. However, it is essential to treat the cat’s environment as well to ensure the complete eradication of the infestation. Failure to treat the environment can lead to re-infestation. Following the veterinarian’s instructions and completing the full course of treatment is crucial for a successful outcome.

How to Prevent Cheyletiellosis

Cheyletiella mites are not common in the United States, so specific preventative measures targeting these parasites are not necessary. However, there are general tips to prevent mites and similar infestations:

• Ensure good overall health and hygiene for your pet: Well-tended pet cats rarely become infested with mites other than ear mites. Regular grooming, proper nutrition, and flea preventatives can help ward off most common parasitic pests.
• Avoid poorly kept environments: Try to avoid crowded areas or situations with poorly kept cats, as these environments can increase the risk of infestation.
• Monitor cats from high-risk environments: If you adopt a kitten or cat from a pet shelter or similar establishment, closely monitor the cat for signs of mites or other infections. Early treatment can help prevent the spread of these infestations.

By taking these preventative measures and staying vigilant, you can reduce the risk of your cat developing cheyletiellosis or other parasitic infestations.

Is Cheyletiellosis Contagious?

Cheyletiella mites can be contagious to other animals and humans. During an outbreak of cheyletiellosis, it is important to treat all animals in the household, even if they appear to be asymptomatic. This ensures that there are no lingering mites that can re-infest your pets.

While humans are not a natural host for Cheyletiella mites, infestations can occur. However, the infestation is self-limiting in humans, meaning the mites cannot complete their life cycle on human skin. Symptoms of itching and red bumps on humans should resolve within three weeks if all other mites are cleared from the household and pets.

If you suspect your pet has cheyletiellosis or any other health condition, it is important to contact your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.