How is mange in rats treated? - briefly
Mange in rats is treated with veterinary‑prescribed acaricides, commonly ivermectin or selamectin, given orally or topically at the recommended dose. Thorough cleaning of the habitat and isolation of affected animals are essential to prevent recurrence.
How is mange in rats treated? - in detail
Mange in rats is caused primarily by the sarcoptic mite Sarcoptes scabiei or the demodex mite Demodex spp. Effective therapy requires accurate identification, appropriate drug selection, and environmental sanitation.
Diagnosis is confirmed by skin scrapings examined under a microscope. Once the mite species is known, treatment proceeds with systemic acaricides, topical agents, or a combination.
Systemic acaricides
- Ivermectin: 200 µg/kg body weight, subcutaneous injection, repeated after 7 days; monitor for neurotoxicity.
- Selamectin: 5 mg/kg, topical spot‑on, applied weekly for three applications; safe for most rodents.
- Moxidectin: 0.2 mg/kg, oral or injectable, administered once with a follow‑up dose after 10 days.
Topical therapies
- Benzyl benzoate 25 % solution applied to affected areas twice daily for 5 days.
- Lime sulfur dip (1 % solution) for 10 minutes, repeated every 48 hours for three treatments; rinse thoroughly to avoid skin irritation.
- Sulfur ointment applied thinly to lesions once daily for 7 days.
Supportive measures
- Isolate affected individuals to prevent spread.
- Clean cages, bedding, and accessories with hot water (≥ 60 °C) or a quaternary ammonium disinfectant; repeat cleaning after treatment cycles.
- Provide high‑quality nutrition and hydration to support skin regeneration.
- Observe for secondary bacterial infection; administer appropriate antibiotics if needed.
Monitoring
- Re‑examine skin scrapings 7–10 days after the initial dose; continue treatment until two consecutive negative results.
- Record weight, behavior, and lesion progression to adjust dosages promptly.
- Consult a veterinarian if adverse reactions or treatment failure occur, as resistance or misdiagnosis may require alternative protocols.
Combining systemic acaricide therapy with rigorous environmental decontamination yields the highest success rate, eliminating mites and preventing recurrence.