Alpine Animal Hospital
Debra M. Taylor, D.V.M.
Patti A. Tuck, D.V.M. Emily A. Lewis, D.V.M.
2202 E. M-32
Gaylord, MI 49735
(989)732-6427
(989)732-4561 Fax
Email: info@alpineanimalhospitalmi.com
www.alpineanimalhospitalmi.com
Cheyletiella Dermatitis
General Information
Cheyletiella dermatitis is caused by a small mite that lives in the outer layers of the skin of dogs,
cats, rabbits, and people. Infested animals have an accumulation of dandruff on their back and
occasionally on their neck and head. Most infested animals scratch and shed hair excessively.
The mite spreads easily from animal to animal by direct contact or sharing contaminated quarters
or grooming supplies. People become infested through contact with infested animals.
As the entire life cycle of these mites occurs on the host animal, environmental cleaning is not
difficult.
Important Points in Treatment
1. Cheyletiella infestations are easily treated with medicated shampoos and insecticidal
dips, powders, or sprays. The doctor will advise you concerning the best product for your
pet.
2. During treatment, your pet should be isolated from other animals for 3 weeks.
3. While environmental contamination is not a great problem with Cheyletiella, mites may
survive up to 10 days off the host. For this reason, a strong effort should be made to clean
the premises thoroughly and spray the area with a good residual insecticide.
4. Special instructions:__________________________________________________
Notify the Doctor if Any of the following Occur
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Your pet continues to scratch.
Your pet’s condition recurs after apparently clearing up
Other pets begin to have similar problems.
Any people in contact with your pet develop itching and/or a rash.