How to recognize if your dog has a coat mite problem
Fur mite is the most common type of mite in dogs. There are also other types, such as the harvest mite, ear mites, and scabies mite. Fortunately, mites cannot transmit serious diseases to dogs, but the symptoms can be annoying and severe. When a dog is infected with fur mites, it looks as if the dog's skin/fur is dusty, and the dog suffers from dandruff. This is often accompanied by itching. In this article, you will learn exactly what fur mite is, what the symptoms are, and how to best treat fur mites in dogs.
What is fur mite?
The fur mite (Cheyletiella mite), also known as the scale mite or walking dandruff, lives in the coat, on the hairs, and the skin of the dog. The female attaches her eggs to the dog's hairs. Fur mite infections mainly occur in young animals. The entire life cycle of the fur mite takes place on the dog. The mites do not live on the ground or in the house where the dog lives. However, fur mite is extremely contagious between animals and can also be transmitted from animal to human. If a person is infected, it causes temporary irritation in the form of small red itchy bumps. Fur mite infection occurs through direct contact.
The symptoms of fur mite
Fur mite often causes little to no discomfort for the dog. Owners often discover something is wrong because the dog suddenly has a dull coat, lots of flakes, and excessive shedding. Additionally, fur mite can cause itching in the dog, but this is not always clearly present. The mites live on the skin surface, moving between the hairs. They feed on tissue fluids, which causes the flakes and occasional itching. Mites are almost invisible to the naked eye unless they move when you are looking or searching through the dog's coat. If you suspect your dog has fur mites, consult a veterinarian as soon as possible to prevent further spread.
How to treat fur mite?
The veterinarian will examine some skin flakes under a microscope to confirm that it is a fur mite infection. Once confirmed, the dog should be treated with a designated product or shampoo. Because fur mite is contagious, it is necessary to thoroughly clean the dog's environment, including washing cushions and blankets and cleaning combs, brushes, leashes, and collars. It is also advisable to treat animals that have been in contact with your dog. Additionally, it is wise to treat the living environment with an environmental spray. Only in this way can you be sure that you are effectively combating the dog's fur mite and that no reinfection occurs after treatment.
