• Mange can cause extreme discomfort in cats.Cat image by supererlend from Fotolia.com
  
  Notoedric mange is a common condition in cats. It's caused by a tiny parasite called a mite. These pests are often so small they can only be seen under a microscope, and they dig into the the skin, causing itching and hair loss. The cat can eventually develop secondary infections that may be life threatening. Proper treatment is important for the health of your cat, but home remedies can be used to alleviate symptoms temporarily.
  
  

Grooming

• Reduce the itching and discomfort caused by mange by using regular grooming methods. Clip all long fur close to the skin, brush your cat regularly, and bathe it gently using a gentle shampoo. Follow these home cures with conventional treatments, such as a lime-sulphur dip, for six to eight weeks. If you don't have access to appropriate mange treatments, grooming can still loosen scabs, prevent matting, and help keep your cat more comfortable.
  
  

Borax and Peroxide

• Boric acid and its relatives are effective pesticides in many cases. They can kill adult mites and prevent juveniles from growing. Mix ordinary household hydrogen peroxide (usually 3 percent) with water to create a 1 percent solution. Then add 1 to 2 tbsp. of borax to 500 cc of the peroxide solution. Clip your cat's coat and bathe it in this solution weekly. Treat for up to two months. If the problem does not go away, seek professional vet care.
  
  

Oil

• Cooking oil, mineral oil, and paraffin oil are commonly used in birds with a type of mite. They're also effective against some cases of mange in cats. The oil traps the mites and prevents them from breathing, eventually killing them. Apply a few drops of oil directly to the patchy skin caused by notoedric mites. Do this twice a day until symptoms disappear. Keep your cat from ingesting the oil if possible, since it can cause digestive upset.
  
  

Cleaning

• Even if you cure your cat, the mites may come back. Clean all areas where your cat sleeps or spends a lot of time. Thoroughly wash all bedding and fabric items, and use an anti-mite spray in areas where washing is impossible. Make sure to read labels carefully--some pesticides are dangerous to cats. Safe options, such as boric acid-based insecticides, are a good idea.