Do you know what walking dandruff in cats is? It's a condition that is caused by the Cheyletiella species of mites and it can affect cats, dogs, and rabbits. These mites are large and often visible to the naked eye. They can be transmitted through direct contact with affected animals or fomites. If your cat has walking dandruff, it is important to get them treated right away!
What is walking dandruff in cats?
Walking dandruff in cats is caused by the various species of Cheyletiella mites. Cheyletiellosis is a term veterinarians give cats that are affected by these mites. As these are large white mites, they are often visible to the naked eye and they can appear as moving or walking pieces of dandruff on the skin of cats.
The entire life cycle takes place on the host. Although eggs are a potential source of re-infestation in the environment, larvae, nymphs, and adult males cannot live off of hosts for very long. However, a female can survive for about 21-30 days without a host.
How walking dandruff in cats can be transmitted
The Cheyletiella mite in cats can be transmitted through direct contact with affected animals or fomites. Fomites are any inanimate objects that may carry infectious agents, such as clothing, bedding, furniture, and other surfaces.
If eggs or adult female mites remain in the environment, they can cause a re-infestation. The disease is considered highly contagious, so cats and other animals kept nearby may be at risk of catching it.
What are the signs and symptoms of walking dandruff in cats?
Scaling and flaking along the back and rump is common in cats. Itchiness varies, and may not be present at all. Itchiness can lead to dermatitis (skin redness and hair loss), and mites may be difficult to identify in cats that excessively groom themselves. Affected cats can also carry the mites without showing any symptoms.
How is walking dandruff in cats diagnosed?
A detailed physical examination will often reveal dry scaling along the back. In some situations, the scale is seen to move, which is why this illness is also known as "walking dandruff."
Your veterinarian will also most likely perform a flea comb examination. This test involves combing through the cat's hair with a fine-toothed flea comb and looking for mites or eggs. If eggs are found, they can be removed with a blade and placed on a glass slide for examination under a microscope.
If your veterinarian suspects that walking dandruff in cats may be present, he or she may also recommend skin scrapings to look for the mites. Alternatively, a tape preparation test may be performed. This test involves placing a piece of clear tape on the skin and then removing it. The tape is then placed on a microscope slide and examined for mites or eggs.
How is walking dandruff in cats treated?
The good news is that walking dandruff and cheyletiella mites are cats is treatable! The aim is to eliminate the mites and prevent future infestations from the surroundings. All animals in the home should be treated as well. Your veterinarian will likely prescribe topical insecticides, such as selamectin (Revolution®) or imidacloprid/moxidectin (Advantage Multi®), to kill the mites. If there is significant hair loss, a medicated shampoo may also be prescribed. Treatment generally lasts for 4-6 weeks.
It is important to treat Cheyletellosis in cats as soon as possible, as it can lead to further skin problems if left untreated. With the proper treatment, your cat should be back to its old self in no time!
Prognosis and prevention of walking dandruff in cats
The prognosis for walking dandruff or Cheyletiellosis in cats is good with treatment. However, it is important to take steps to prevent re-infestation from the environment. All animals should be treated at the same time and all bedding, carpeting, and furniture should be vacuumed and cleaned thoroughly. Any items that cannot be washed should be stored in a sealed container for two weeks.
Can Cheyletiella mites affect humans?
Yes! Cheyletiellosis is a contagious zoonotic disease that affects both humans and animals. People who develop the infection often have itchy lesions. The condition usually goes away on its own after discontinuing exposure, but speaking with a human physician is recommended.
This blog article discussed the importance of walking dandruff in cats and how to treat it. The disease is highly contagious and can cause skin problems if left untreated. Treatment generally lasts for 4-6 weeks, and all animals in the home should be treated at the same time. Prevention of re-infestation is important, and all bedding, carpeting, and furniture should be vacuumed and cleaned thoroughly. The prognosis is good with a timely diagnosis and the right therapy. If you are concerned that your cat may be infected with Cheyletiella mites, please contact your veterinarian.