A (scabies) mite infection is highly contagious. This infection occurs quite easily when resistance is lowered due to a weakened immune system. Too high ambient temperature, poor ventilation, unhygienic housing and nutritional deficiencies therefore increase the risk of a (mange) mite infection. The first signs of a mite infection are reddening of the skin and intense itching. The skin swells and open wounds and scabs appear around the eyes and ears. In these wounds, infections can reappear, increasing the animal's pain. The animal starts eating and drinking less. Without proper treatment, the animal dies a painful death.