Bits Of Fur Missing On Your Cat? This Could Be The Reason Why!
Fur mites. It is quite a common condition to have in pets, and even our well-groomed cats. Those specks that look like dust-like particles are actually caused by fur mites. Shine a light on the fur and you can actually see these “dust particles” moving if you observe closely and long enough.
So here is a low down on what fur mites are, and how to treat them.
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What Are Fur Mites?
Cheyletiella, fur mites, or “walking dandruff,” affect mainly rabbits, but also guinea pigs, hedgehogs, rodents, cats, and dogs. They look like dust or dandruff on the fur. It is easier to spot if your cat has a dark coat of fur.
Although an uncommon host for the mite, these mites can also be transmitted to humans. The mites are non-burrowing skin parasites. On close observation of an infested pet, movement of the dandruff is visible caused by the mites moving underneath the scales.
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How Do I Know If My Cat Has Fur Mites?
Visual signs include chronic dandruff, “walking dandruff,” chronic scratching of the hindquarters, nape of neck, and along the back, sores or scabs in the same areas, fur loss and bald patches.
The fur loss is the result of your cat scratching, licking the itchy area again and again. Ouch poor kitty.
Of course, we are not vets, the best course of action is to seek a professional opinion if you think your pet has fur mites. If you’re in Singapore, here is a list of vets in Singapore.
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How Did My Cat Get It?
There are a few possible sources of contracting fur mites:
- Dirty/dusty home/pet hotel/shelter
- Petting a cat that has fur mites (a stray) and coming back home to pet your own cat
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How To Treat Fur Mites?
The vet will most likely give your cat 6 months dosage of Fipronil, an insecticide to be applied to the skin only. It is supposed to be applied between the shoulder blades of the cat, so it will not lick it off. For the bald patches wounds treatment, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial cream and a bitter spray to deter the cat from licking the medication off might be prescribed by the vet.
Also, the vet will suggest changing the usual shampoo to a pest control shampoo, and more frequent baths to about twice a month. Do consult your vet before changing the shampoo, and certain medication is not suitable for kittens.
The duration of the treatment can take up to 6 months to completely rid your cat of fur mites. So be patient, and clean hands before and after handling your furry friend!
