Burrowing mites in companion animals

Ectoparasite infections caused by mites present a consistent and frequent challenge to veterinary practitioners. Of the estimated 0.5–1 million mite species on earth, there is a subgroup that are parasitic and can cause major disease. These parasites can pose challenges such as mis-identification and limited treatment options, as well as the need to change husbandry practices to prevent transmission. Of the mites of companion animals, burrowing mites are of particular importance due to their propensity to cause mange in the infested host. The most important of these are Sarcoptes scabiei, Notoedres cati, and Demodex spp., all of which are capable of causing profound infestation and disease. In order to have a good prognosis for cure in mange, treatment and identification of underlying diseases needs to be accurate. In addition, treatment should be monitored past clinical and microscopic cure, to minimise the risk of recrudecence.