Mange Medication Options at PetSmart: Comprehensive Guide for Pet Owners

Mange is a common yet serious skin condition that affects pets, particularly dogs and cats. Caused by various types of mites, mange can lead to intense itching, skin irritation, hair loss, and secondary infections if left untreated. Fortunately, effective treatment options, including mange medications, are available at pet stores like PetSmart. This article provides a thorough overview of mange, its causes, symptoms, types, and available treatment options, with a specific focus on medications and products available at PetSmart.

What is Mange?

Mange is a skin disease caused by mites, tiny parasites that burrow into the skin. While mange can affect any pet, it is most commonly seen in dogs and occasionally in cats. Mange manifests in two primary types, depending on the species of mite: sarcoptic mange and demodectic mange.

• Sarcoptic Mange (or scabies): Caused by Sarcoptes scabiei mites, this type of mange is highly contagious and can spread between animals and even to humans. Symptoms include intense itching, redness, hair loss, and lesions.
• Demodectic Mange: Caused by Demodex mites, this type is generally not contagious and is often seen in puppies or dogs with weakened immune systems. It leads to patchy hair loss, redness, and scaly skin but usually does not cause severe itching.

Symptoms of Mange in Pets

The symptoms of mange depend on the type and severity but typically include:

• Severe itching and scratching
• Red, inflamed skin
• Hair loss in patches
• Scabs or sores
• Dry, crusty skin
• Secondary infections (from scratching or bacterial infections)

Recognizing these signs early is key to preventing the spread of mange and alleviating your pet’s discomfort. A veterinarian should confirm the diagnosis and advise on the best course of action, which often includes topical or oral mange medication.

Treatment Options for Mange

Once diagnosed, mange can be treated effectively with various medications and over-the-counter products designed to kill mites and alleviate symptoms. Treatments usually include:

1. Topical Medications: Applied directly to the skin, these treatments can soothe irritation and kill mites on contact.
2. Oral Medications: Prescribed for severe cases, these can kill mites throughout the body.
3. Shampoos and Dips: Special shampoos or dips can cleanse the skin and help eliminate mites.
4. Supplements and Medicated Sprays: Added to support immune health or relieve itching.

Below are mange treatment options, including products available at PetSmart.

Mange Medications Available at PetSmart

PetSmart offers a variety of mange medications, including shampoos, sprays, ointments, and dips, making it easy for pet owners to access over-the-counter solutions for mild cases or supportive care.

1. Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiparasitic & Antiseborrheic Medicated Shampoo

• Uses: Suitable for pets with mange, seborrhea, and other skin irritations.
• How it Works: Contains salicylic acid, coal tar, and micronized sulfur, which help soothe irritated skin, kill mites, and control infection.
• Application: Wet the pet’s coat thoroughly, apply the shampoo, and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing. Repeat as directed, usually twice a week.
• Benefits: Affordable, effective, and easy to apply, this shampoo also relieves itching and discomfort.

2. Sentry HC EctoGuard Plus Flea, Tick & Mange Treatment

• Uses: Specifically formulated to eliminate fleas, ticks, and mange mites.
• How it Works: The product contains fipronil, an insecticide that targets parasites on contact.
• Application: Apply monthly as a spot-on treatment, following the dosage instructions based on your pet’s weight.
• Benefits: This product offers broader protection against multiple pests, making it a good option if your pet is also at risk for fleas or ticks.

3. Adams Plus Flea & Tick Shampoo with Precor

• Uses: Although primarily designed for flea and tick infestations, this shampoo can help pets with mange by eliminating mites.
• How it Works: Contains pyrethrins, which target fleas, ticks, and mites, and Precor, an insect growth regulator to prevent reinfestation.
• Application: Wet the coat, apply the shampoo, and work into a lather. Leave on for five minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
• Benefits: Effective and affordable for pet owners who need a solution to multiple parasite issues.

4. Sulfur and Lime Dip

• Uses: Medicated dips are recommended for more severe cases of mange.
• How it Works: Lime sulfur dips help kill mites and treat secondary infections.
• Application: Dips are concentrated treatments mixed with water, and pets are submerged in the solution, ensuring full coat coverage. Instructions and safety precautions should be followed precisely.
• Benefits: Highly effective for severe mange cases, though the application process can be challenging.

5. PetArmor Mange Treatment Spray

• Uses: A topical spray treatment for mange and other mite-related skin conditions.
• How it Works: Contains an active ingredient designed to kill mites on contact, easing symptoms and reducing mite populations on the pet.
• Application: Spray on affected areas, following instructions carefully to avoid over-application.
• Benefits: Convenient for spot treatments, effective in reducing symptoms, and relatively easy to use for smaller affected areas.

Supporting Products for Mange Recovery

Beyond targeted mange treatments, several supportive products can help pets recover from mange, relieve itching, and promote skin healing. PetSmart offers a variety of options that can work in conjunction with the primary medication.

1. Skin & Coat Supplements

Nutritional supplements, often available in chewable or liquid forms, can boost your pet’s immune system and improve skin health. Ingredients like omega fatty acids, vitamins E and A, and biotin can help accelerate the healing process.

2. Medicated Shampoos for Itch Relief

Shampoos containing aloe, oatmeal, or anti-inflammatory ingredients can provide additional relief. These can be used between mange treatments to keep the skin moisturized and reduce itching.

3. Collars or Protective Clothing

To prevent pets from scratching and worsening their mange symptoms, some owners use e-collars (Elizabethan collars) or protective pet clothing, which can be found at PetSmart. These accessories prevent pets from irritating their skin and help ensure that medications stay on longer.

Preventing Mange in Pets

Although mange can affect any pet, certain preventative measures can reduce the risk of infection:

• Routine Check-ups: Regular vet visits help identify skin issues early on.
• Regular Grooming: Grooming sessions allow you to spot any skin irregularities.
• Isolating Infected Pets: Since sarcoptic mange is contagious, isolate pets showing symptoms to prevent the spread.
• Boosting Immunity: A strong immune system is essential for pets to fend off parasites. Provide a balanced diet and maintain your pet’s overall health.

When to Seek Veterinary Assistance

While mild cases of mange may respond to over-the-counter treatments, it’s best to consult a veterinarian if:

• Symptoms persist or worsen after treatment.
• Secondary infections develop.
• Your pet shows signs of distress, including lethargy or loss of appetite.

Veterinarians can prescribe stronger oral medications like ivermectin or milbemycin, which are effective against severe cases of mange. They may also perform skin scrapings or other tests to determine the exact type of mite and recommend the most effective treatment plan.

Conclusion

PetSmart offers a variety of mange medications and supportive products, making it easier for pet owners to access mange treatments for mild to moderate cases. Products like shampoos, sprays, and dips can alleviate symptoms, kill mites, and support recovery. However, for severe or persistent cases, a visit to the vet is essential. By recognizing the symptoms of mange early and following a comprehensive treatment plan, you can help your pet recover and return to a healthy, happy life.