Feline scabies is caused by a tiny mite called Notoedres cati .
This mite affects cats very much like the sarcoptic mange mite
affects dogs; in fact, their life cycles and treatments are very
similar. While many cat owners do not realize that cats get
mange, as veterinarians, we see and treat this on a regular
basis. If your cat suffers from severe itching or hair loss on
the head and neck, you should consider having her examined for
this mange mite. What is the life cycle of Notoedres cati? The
mites spend their entire life on a cat. The female mite burrows
into the skin and lays eggs several times as she continues
burrowing. These tunnels can actually reach the length of
several centimeters. After she deposits the eggs, the female
mite dies. In 3-8 days, the eggs hatch into larvae which have 6
legs. The larvae mature into nymphs which have 8 legs. The nymph
then molts into an adult while it is still in the burrow. The
adults mate, and the process continues. The entire life cycle
requires 2-3 weeks. Who gets