Vet Article 2025: Sarcoptic Mange in Pet Pigs

Author: Dr Duncan Houston

Revised: July 2025

Published: July 2025

📌 Introduction

Sarcoptic mange, caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei var. suis, is one of the most common and contagious parasitic skin diseases affecting pet pigs. These microscopic, burrowing mites cause intense irritation, pruritus, and skin lesions that can progress to hair loss, thick crusts, and systemic illness. Although often associated with commercial swine, sarcoptic mange is also seen in pet pigs and miniature breeds. The condition carries significant welfare and zoonotic implications, and necessitates prompt veterinary attention. Studies indicate its impact on growth, productivity, and human health. 🧬:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

🔍 What Causes Sarcoptic Mange?

The culprit is Sarcoptes scabiei var. suis, an ectoparasitic mite that burrows into the skin’s superficial layers. At only ~0.5 mm, females tunnel through the epidermis, laying 1–3 eggs daily. Eggs hatch into larvae within 3–5 days, and the cycle to adult lasts approximately 10–15 days. Adult females may survive up to 30 days on the host, and mites can survive off-host for over a week under favorable environmental conditions.:contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

🌍 Global Distribution & Prevalence

Sarcoptic mange occurs worldwide—one of the most prevalent pig skin diseases. Surveys in India and other countries consistently report prevalence ≥30–40% in both backyard and commercial pigs, with seasonal spikes in colder months.:contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4} In one European slaughterhouse, nearly 38.6% of pigs had mite infestations.:contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5} Despite aggressive control, re-introduction via new animals remains a concern.:contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

🐷 Clinical Signs in Pet Pigs

• Severe itching (pruritus), frequent scratching
• Skin thickening, crusting—especially ears, legs, torso
• Hair loss, scabs, red bumps, flaking skin
• Pig may appear depressed, lethargic, lose weight, mildly febrile
• Chronic infestations may impair growth and feed efficiency:contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}

🔬 Diagnosing Sarcoptic Mange

Veterinarians confirm diagnose via deep skin scrapings examined microscopically to identify mites, eggs, or fecal pellets. Diagnosis relies on clinical signs, history, and demonstration of mites. Serological tests (e.g., ELISA or hemagglutination assay) can detect exposure; these show higher sensitivity near slaughter age.:contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}

🧠 Pathophysiology & Immune Response

Mite burrowing and fecal antigen deposition direct contact to the epidermis, causing intense Type I and IV hypersensitivity reactions. Lesions begin as erythematous papules and progress to crusts and hyperkeratosis as inflammation becomes chronic. Systemic effects like oxidative stress, altered lipid metabolism, impaired immunity, and reduced feed conversion efficiency are documented.:contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}

🩺 Treatment Approaches

🐾 Ivermectin Therapy

Systemic macrocyclic lactones are the mainstay of treatment:

• Single subcutaneous injection at 0.3 mg/kg may resolve infestations but often requires repeat dosing.
• Studies advocate a two-dose protocol 7–14 days apart, especially in group-housed pigs.:contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
• Oral medicated feed with ivermectin (100 µg/kg/day for 7 days, repeated after 21 days) successfully clears herd infestations.:contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}

🌿 Alternative Acaricides

Other effective products include doramectin, moxidectin, and injectable organophosphates like phosmet. Topical permethrin baths may be used but are less practical in pet pigs. Environmental treatment may include topical acaricides, though off-host mite survival is limited (7–12 days).:contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}

🧼 Environmental Control & Biosecurity

Treatment must include environmental management:

• Quarantine new or returning pigs for ≥4 weeks, perform skin scrapings before integration.:contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
• Regularly clean and disinfect bedding, pens, and shared equipment.
• Maintain dry, cool housing—mites thrive in humidity.

🩹 Monitoring & Follow-Up

Post-treatment assessments include:

• Skin scrapings every 2–4 weeks until negative
• Evaluate weight gain and coat improvement
• Do not reintroduce untreated pigs

⚠️ Zoonotic Implications

The mite may transiently infest humans (causing 'pig-handler’s itch'), leading to itching and rash. Documented cases include transmission from pet pigs to a child. Proper protective measures and hygiene are essential when handling infected pigs or cleaning pens.:contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}

📋 Prognosis

With timely and thorough treatment, most pigs recover fully. Residual skin changes may persist but resolve. Chronic or untreated infestations compromise welfare and productivity and increase zoonotic risk.

💡 Prevention & Owner Recommendations

• Isolate and screen new pigs.
• Maintain dry, well-ventilated housing.
• Clean and disinfect living areas regularly.
• Administer routine ivermectin or feed-based prophylaxis in multi-pig households.
• Educate caretakers on early detection and zoonotic protection.

🏁 Summary

Sarcoptic mange from Sarcoptes scabiei var. suis is a widespread, itchy, burdensome, and potentially zoonotic skin disease in pet pigs. Treatment with ivermectin and environmental hygiene cures most cases. Prompt veterinary care is essential for pig welfare, public health, and a happy companionship with your piggy friend. 🐽✨