What Does It Mean If A Coyote Has Mange?
Sadly, it is common for mange-infected coyotes to scratch themselves so raw that excessive infection is commonly the result. Without proper treatment, these infections can cause fatality, especially in colder weather conditions.
Mange Symptoms In Coyotes:
Mange is a parasitic mite skin ailment that frequently results in:
Severe itchingHair lossScabs and ulcers on the skinSecondary InfectionsDeath in extreme cases
How Do Coyotes Contract Mange?
A mite that burrows into the skin of an infected host spreads the disease known as ‘mange.’ It’s not understood why some coyotes are more susceptible to this disease than others. However, mange in wild animals may be caused, in part, by rat poison, according to new research. The theory is that poisoned rats can be eaten by predators including owls, foxes, hawks, domestic cats and dogs, and wild cats and dogs. As the rodent weakens from the poison, it can become easy prey for predators (like coyotes). When a coyote devours a poisoned mouse or rat, it too becomes poisoned. Although more research is needed to confirm this link, experts are seeing results that show rat poisons can lead to severe mange in wild animals such as coyotes.
What To Do If You See A Coyote With Mange
It’s common to see mange-infected coyotes snoozing on sidewalks and street corners, as well as laying in the sun to warm themselves. Typically, these sick coyotes just want to survive and are not antagonistic in any way. However, even in this state, they’re difficult to capture and you should never attempt to approach an infected coyote or any infected animal. Mange is highly contagious. Also, do not, under any circumstances, feed any wild coyotes, no matter how tempting it may seem. Research shows that feeding diseased animals just causes more problems for them.
How Can You Help?
It is tough to see animals with mange because of their awful condition, yet they can recover from the disease. In most cases, it’s preferable to leave the animals where they are and report the sighting to your state wildlife agency or to use the NWRA “Find a Rehabilitator” link to find wildlife rehabilitators in your area who can help. There are a variety of other organizations you can turn to if you’re unable to track down a wildlife rehabilitator, such as your local vet, animal control agency, or humane society.
Try to document the following:
Any photos (only if safe to do so)Address or sighting spotTime of dayDate
Is Coyote Mange Contagious?
Scabies and other forms of mange can be contracted by encountering the mites that cause the disease. In metropolitan settings, coyotes presumably function as the host for this virus, which can spread to pets and, rarely, people. If you think you have encountered mange, be sure to wash your hands immediately. Mange symptoms may not appear for weeks following infestation. Contact your doctor right away if you think you have a form of mange. There may be symptoms of a mite infestation on your skin that your doctor will inspect for.
Mange symptoms in humans include:
Severe, itchy rashElevated, skin-colored, or grayish-white tractsLumps or blisters on the surface of the skin
Mange is most likely to affect skin creases, including:
Inner elbowsWristsBehind the kneesButtocksBottom of the feetShoulder blades
The correct medical therapies can quickly remove mange. However, left untreated, it might cause secondary infections making it more difficult to treat.
How Long Can A Coyote With Mange Survive?
Even though mange is highly uncomfortable, some coyotes can live with it for a few years. Harsh weather conditions and infections caused by exposed sores and intense itching are the most common causes of death for these animals. Once the illness and any secondary infections are irradicated, the coyote can live much longer richer lives.
Is Mange Curable In Coyotes?
The mites that cause mange can be eliminated by administering a specific medicine. Biologists, veterinarians, and other wildlife specialists are working together to discover novel drugs that can be used to treat animals with mange more effectively. If there are secondary infections, those will need to be treated properly and as soon as possible. Sadly, it is extremely rare for coyotes to survive secondary infections.
