CHAPTER XII 



MANGE OF POULTRY 



The acari-prodiicing mange of fowls belong with the genus Cnemi- 

 docoptes, the characteristics of which are described on page 103. There 

 are two species, — Cn. mutans (formerly Sarcoptes mutans), which pro- 

 duces the condition known as scaly leg, and Cn. gallince {Cn. Icevis) 

 which attacks the skin at the attachment of the feathers. 



Mange of the Legs (" Scaly Leg "). — The burrowing mite of leg 

 mange most often attacks the feet and legs of chickens of the heavier 

 breeds, as the Brahma, Dorking, and Cochin China, less frequently 

 turkeys, pheasants, and pigeons. 



The mites live under the epidermic scales from the tarsal joint down- 

 ward, including the upper part of the toes. In this location iYiey deposit 

 their eggs and multiply, the irritation of their presence soon being 

 manifested by the formation of a white powdery matter which elevates 

 the scales. Due to the exuded serum, this matter assumes a lardaceous 

 nature, adhering to and soon covering the foot. Gradually rough crusts 

 are formed in the lower layers of which numerous mites may be found. 

 The scabs adhere closely to the skin, and, when removed, reveal an 

 irritated and bleeding surface (Fig. 75). 



The course of the disease is slow, running several months to a 3'ear. 

 There is a moderate pi-uritus which the fowl indicates by restlessness 

 and picking at the scabs with the beak. As the crusts increase there 

 is a mechanical interference with flexion of the joints which makes 

 either moving about or standing difficult. As a consequence the animal 

 often squats down with the legs extended and remains in this position 

 with infrequent efforts to rise. In such severe cases arthritis is likely to 

 appear, and one or even all of the toes may drop off. When the disease 

 has advanced over several months we have the usual systemic accom- 

 paniment of prolonged mange; there is loss of appetite, cachexia, and 

 stupor which is usually followed by death. 



Treatment. — Treatment must begin with softening of the scabs with 

 soft soap, appHed by hand or by soaking in warm soapj^ water. They 

 may then be removed by manipulation with the hands or with a brush, 

 care bemg taken in this operation to cause as little'injury to the skin as 

 possible. When the parts are dr,y, apply Peruvian balsam, either alone 

 or made up in the proportions of balsam 2 parts, creolin 1 part, alcohol 

 20 parts. The ointment of Helmerich, as recommended for scabies in 



