Mange is a highly contagious skin disease caused by parasitic mites that affects many wild and domestic mammals. Several species of mange mites generally affect different species of animals. The most common type of mange affecting wildlife in our area is sarcoptic mange, caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite. Mange primarily afflicts red fox populations in Fairfax County but has also been spreading within the black bear population in Virginia.
Mange causes intense itching and inflammation from an allergic reaction to the mite. Wildlife with mange often exhibit hair thinning and loss, thickening and wrinkling of the skin, scabbing, skin lesions and secondary bacterial skin infections that result in foul-smelling crusts from scratching. Mange cannot be diagnosed simply by looking at an animal. A skin scrape and microscopic evaluation is required for proper diagnosis. Many animals suspected to have mange are afflicted by other conditions that cause hair loss thickening of skin, and other signs commonly associated with mange, including ringworm, bacteria, other parasites, or even routine shedding.
Animals may recover from mange without intervention when low-level infections are present and their immune system is not severely compromised. Severely affected animals may become emaciated, dehydrated and lethargic as they have difficulty locating food, are unable to rest due to discomfort and cannot maintain appropriate body temperature. Mange can be debilitating in colder months and may lead to starvation and hypothermia.
Wildlife officials are frequently contacted asking about treatments for mange. Treating mange in wildlife can only be done legally by a licensed veterinarian or permitted wildlife rehabilitator working under the direction of a veterinarian in a controlled setting with an approved permit by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources. Although some rescue groups and resources suggest using antiparasitic drugs that can be used to treat mange, it is unlawful for a person to administer medications to wildlife without a permit in Virginia or to place medicated food or bait in the wild. While these actions may be well-intentioned, leaving out medications for wildlife is neither safe nor legal. Without proper veterinary diagnosis or way to ensure the right animal receives the medication and correct dosage, it can be toxic and even lethal to wildlife and other animals including domestic pets that may unintentionally ingest the drug. While it may be difficult to observe animals in this condition, disease plays an important natural role in regulating wildlife populations and health.
