Cheyletiellosis Caused by Cheyletiella Mites (Parasitic Infection with Fur Mites, “Walking Dandruff”) in cats
- Occurrence: common
- Location of illness: Skin/Fur
Cheyletiellosis is a parasitic skin disease caused by Cheyletiella mites. These mites infest the skin surface of cats and lead to intense itching and scaling, also known as “Walking dandruff”.
The most important facts at a glance
Cheyletiellosis in cats is caused by Cheyletiella mites, microscopic ectoparasites that live on the skin surface and feed on skin cells. These mites can infect not only cats but also dogs, rabbits, and humans, causing temporary skin reactions in the latter. Transmission usually occurs through direct contact with infected animals or their environment, as the mites can survive for a few days. Symptoms of infection include scaling, increased licking and scratching, and hair loss. The diagnosis is made through a combination of symptoms and tests such as skin scrapings or adhesive tape tests. For treatment, antiparasitic agents such as spot-on preparations with fipronil or selamectin are used. In some cases, ivermectin can also be used. It is also important to clean the environment to prevent re-infection. The prognosis is good with timely treatment, and the symptoms usually subside after a few weeks. Preventive measures include regular veterinary visits, good hygiene in the household, and simultaneous treatment of all pets in the household. A balanced diet and stress reduction can strengthen the immune system and reduce the risk of infection.
Causes
Cheyletiella mites are microscopic ectoparasites that belong to the family Cheyletiellidae. They are superficial skin dwellers that feed on skin cells and tissue fluids of their hosts. The mites can occur on various animal species, including cats, dogs, and rabbits, and are also able to infect humans, causing temporary skin reactions.
The transmission of the mites usually occurs through direct contact with infested animals or their environment. Cheyletiella mites are relatively resistant and can survive in the environment for a few days, which facilitates their spread. Therefore, animals kept in groups or under cramped conditions, such as in breeding facilities or animal shelters, are particularly at risk.
The mites themselves are difficult to see with the naked eye, with a length of about 0.3 to 0.5 millimeters. They have characteristic grasping claws that help them hold onto the skin surface. Their lifespan is about three to five weeks, during which they go through several developmental stages, including egg, larva, nymph, and adult mite.
Symptoms
The most noticeable symptom of cheyletiellosis in cats is the presence of scales on the back that can move when the mites crawl underneath, which corresponds to the name “Walking dandruff”. These scales are often visible in the form of whitish, dry particles that are particularly concentrated along the back line.
Cats with cheyletiellosis often show signs of itching, which is recognizable by scratching, biting, or licking the affected skin areas. This can lead to secondary skin lesions, such as redness, crusts, or hair loss, which can result from self-inflicted injuries and possible secondary bacterial infections.
Some cats may be asymptomatic, especially if they carry a lower mite load or have developed some immunity. However, they can serve as carriers and transmit the mites to other susceptible animals or humans.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of cheyletiellosis is based on a combination of clinical symptoms and diagnostic tests. An experienced veterinarian will first take a thorough history and perform a physical examination to identify typical signs such as scaling and itching.
To confirm the diagnosis, a skin scraping can be performed. A small sample of the superficial skin layer is taken and examined microscopically to detect the presence of Cheyletiella mites or their eggs. Since the mites are not always easy to find, it may be necessary to take several samples.
In some cases, a so-called adhesive tape test can be used, in which a transparent adhesive tape is glued to the affected skin and then examined under the microscope. Combing the coat with a fine comb to collect loose scales and possibly mites can also be helpful.
Therapy
The treatment of cheyletiellosis aims to completely eliminate the mites and relieve the symptoms. Various antiparasitic agents are available that can be applied topically or systemically. For example, spot-on preparations containing fipronil or selamectin can be effective. These preparations are applied directly to the cat’s skin and provide a long-lasting effect against mites.
In some cases, an oral or injectable treatment with ivermectin may be considered, although this is outside the approved use (off-label) and should be done under strict veterinary supervision. The treatment must be repeated regularly to cover the entire life cycle of the mites and eliminate all developmental stages.
In addition to the direct treatment of the cat, it is important to thoroughly clean the environment to prevent re-infection. This includes washing bedding, blankets, and all materials that the cat has come into contact with, as well as thoroughly vacuuming carpets and furniture.
Prognosis and follow-up care
The prognosis for cats with cheyletiellosis is generally very good, provided that appropriate and timely treatment is given. Most cats respond well to therapy, and the symptoms usually subside within a few weeks.
However, it is important to carry out the treatment consistently and to observe all recommended environmental cleaning measures to avoid re-infection. If left untreated, the symptoms can persist and significantly impair the cat’s well-being.
Prevention
To prevent cheyletiellosis in cats, it is important to carry out regular check-ups with the veterinarian. These can detect early signs of infection and take appropriate measures. Good hygiene in the household is also crucial, as the mites can survive in the environment. Regular vacuuming and washing of bedding and cuddly blankets at high temperatures can help to reduce the mite population.
It is advisable to avoid direct contact with infected animals, as the mites can easily be transmitted from one animal to another. If several pets live in the household, all animals should be treated at the same time to prevent re-infection. In addition, the use of antiparasitic agents specifically developed for the prevention of mites can be a helpful measure. However, these agents should always be used in consultation with a veterinarian.
Another important aspect of prevention is strengthening the cat’s immune system through a balanced diet and stress reduction. A strong immune system can help to better ward off infections. Through these preventive measures, the risk of cheyletiellosis infection in cats can be significantly reduced.