by Sara Jackson

Created on: June 25, 2009   Last Updated: June 26, 2009

When we think of mange, we think of dogs, but the truth is that all animals are susceptible to contacting mange; including cattle. What we know as mange is actually the infestation of mites. Cattle are prone to five different types of mange.

1. Sarcoptic Mange:

Is a very contagious disease that is spread by direct contact. Since the mite can be transmitted to humans, it needs to be reported federally.

Signs and Symptoms:

The mite burrows itself deeply into the cow's hide, causing an intense itch. Lesions will start to form on the cow's head, neck and shoulders and can spread to other parts of the body. The whole body can become infected in a matter of 6 weeks. At the start of the infection, the cows will rub against anything to relieve the itch, sometimes to the point of bleeding. Scabies occurs when the skin forms a crust from a fluid called exudate.

2. Psoroptic Mange:

Unlike Sarcoptic Mange, it does not spread to humans. Outbreaks have been most frequently reported in both free range and feedlot cattle in the central and western United States, specifically in the states of Texas, New Mexico, Kansas, Oklahoma, Nebraska and Colorado. Death can occur in untreated calves and cattle can suffer weight loss, decreased production of milk and they can become more susceptible to other diseases.

Signs and Symptoms:

The mites prefer areas on the cow with a lot of hair, causing inflammation around the site, followed by lesions, itching, hair loss and scabbing. When scabs form, the mites are forced to move to other areas of the body, because they're unable to get at the skin.

3. Chorioptic Mange:

Also called leg mange, it is the most common type of mange seen in cattle in the United States, and occurs mostly during the winter months.

Signs and Symptoms:

The mites prefer the cow's pastern, causing lesions, which form crusts and ulcerations to form on the legs. The infection can spread to the udders, scrotum, and tail and perineal area.

4. Demodectic Mange:

Is transferred from the cow to its nursing calf. Rarely causes problems, unless the population of mites in the hair follicles increases dramatically. Although this type of mange is benign, it could take many months to heal. Cows are known to recover suddenly from it, eliminating the need for veterinarian attention.

Signs and Symptoms:

Mites in the hair follicles will either cause small areas of hair loss to extensive loss of hair. Lesions first make an appearance on the head and forelimbs, but can spread

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