Sarcoptic Mange (Scabies, Body Mange)
Although rare, sarcoptic mange is the most severe type of mange in horses. The first sign of mange is intense itching, which is caused by hypersensitivity to mite saliva and feces. Anti-itch medications do not help. The animal will rub and chew on its skin, causing sores and bald patches to appear on the head, neck, flanks, and abdomen. The sores start as small bumps and blisters that later develop into crusts. Hair loss and crusting spreads, and the skin becomes thickened. If untreated, the sores may spread over the entire body, leading to emaciation, weakness, and loss of appetite.
Diagnosing mange is sometimes difficult. If mange is suspected, your veterinarian will do a physical examination, including skin scrapings. However, the mites that cause mange are not always found in skin scrapings. If mites are not found, but the signs are highly suggestive of mange, a skin biopsy might be performed.
Sarcoptic mange is highly contagious. Treatment must be thorough and should include all horses and other animals that have been in contact with one another. Your veterinarian will prescribe an organophosphate insecticide or a lime-sulfur solution, to be applied by dip, spray, or sponge. Three or 4 treatments, applied 12 to 14 days apart, are often recommended. A group of drugs called macrocyclic lactones are highly effective against sarcoptic mange. These drugs are usually given by mouth in horses. Treatment for secondary infections may also be necessary.