Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Is this stray cat's bumpy skin and closed eyes due to mange?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Asian | Male | unneutered

Hi..Please tell me what is happening to this stray cat..it doesn't completely open its eyes and I feel a rough skin on its head when touched , like bumps..it also scratches its neck and head..is it mange..? Plus its mouth looks dirty..it fights with another stray and so I think the reddened skin is due to that..I am not sure though..please englighten me..thank you.

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Lotus Altholtz

Veterinarian, Board-Certified Lab Animal Medicine Specialist

Published on January 19th, 2019

It does look like Mu has mange and even possibly a severe ringworm fungal skin infection as well. The eyes being semi-closed may be due to the mange/ringworm infection of the eyelids causing swelling/discomfort or he may also have an eye infection/conjunctivitis as well. Topical monthly flea products for cats called Revolution or Paradyne are often effective against sarcoptic mange and would be easy enough to apply to Mu. Ringworm lesions are usually circular areas of hairloss but can progress to covering large stretches of skin and look similar to how Mu looks in the pictures. Both diseases can be transmissible to humans and Mu is likely not rabies vaccinated so I would recommend avoiding handling/touching him without heavy gloves. If you are able to bring him to a local veterinarian or shelter, they may be able to provide Revolution, vaccinate him against rabies, provide a topical ophthalmic antibiotic ointment if indicated and look more closely in his mouth, as well as perform diagnostics to rule out a severe ringworm infection. Good luck!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 18th, 2019

    It looks like this kitten could have a skin infection or external parasite that is causing the lesions on his face. A viral upper respiratory infection would be another possibility. It sounds like this is something that may be contagious in your area, and I'm concerned that it has been fatal for other cats. If there is any way for you to have Mu examined by a vet I think that would be the best way to determine exactly what's going on which would help determine the best treatment.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Can I use human contact lens solution as eye drops for my mouse?
Can you use contact lens saline for your mouse's eye drops? A certified vet discusses ingredients like boric acid and potassium chloride. Find safe solutions for your pet!
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?
See red spots on your pet? A certified Petco vet discusses common causes like allergies, infections, or mites, guiding you on diagnosis and treatment options.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet keeps scratching its ear. What's causing this problem?
Is your pet scratching their ear often? A certified Petco veterinarian explains common causes like otitis or infection and how to identify the problem.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored