More on Crosby

In yesterday’s post I said Crosby had lice. It turns out that is not correct. He actually has Cheyletiellosis, Michelle sent me some information on this disease:

Cheyletiellosis is an itchy, scaling skin disease of cats caused by infestation with Cheyletiella mites. It is often called "walking dandruff" because when you examine an infested cat, you may see that the "dandruff" is moving. The movement is actually caused by the mites moving around under the scales. Although the mites inhabit the entire body, the scaling and itching often seem worse over the back.

Cheyletiellosis is a contagious and a zoonotic disease which means it can be spread to and from other cats, dogs or humans. Cats can acquire the infection from other pets or humans. The mite is transmitted by close contact with infested animals. Since the mite can live for a few days off the host, it is also possible to become infected through environmental contamination. Eggs are also shed into the environment, which is believed to also be an important cause of reinfestation.

This disease is very contagious making it more prevalent in shelters, humane societies, boarding facilities and grooming establishments where there are lots of pets. Poor sanitation, poor nutrition and overcrowding can lead to infestation.

Kittens seem to be more susceptible than older animals, but infestation of adults is also seen. Long-haired cats appear to be predisposed.

We have to be very careful how we handle Crosby to prevent infesting ourselves, the Base Pack, and our foster dogs. We’ll keep him isolated in the puppy room. Luckily this condition is pretty easy to treat and Crosby has already had Revolution applied to his skin to kill the mites. He’ll get another treatment in two weeks.