Robert White, age 12, of Dotham, Ala., for his question:

WHAT CAUSES THE MANGE?

Mange is a disease of animals that is caused by tiny insects called mites. Most bothered by these pests are cattle, horses, sheep, swine and poultry. Dogs and cats can also be hit.

The mites burrow into the skin of the animal and cause itching. The animal scratches until there is bleeding.

Mange mites can live in straw or other forms of bedding. To get rid of them you must burn all the litter and completely disinfect the floor.

Treating animals with the mange is usually accomplished by dipping them in a tank of lime sulfur. A trench is usually dug and lined with cement. It should be deep enough to completely cover the animal's body.

Cats and dogs are put into gas tight boxes at animal hospitals, leaving only their heads out. A sulfur gas is then used in the box to fumigate the animal's hair and skin.