Skip to content

Parásitos

Myiasis (fly strike)

Infestation of wounds or skin by fly larvae (maggots). The larvae feed on the tissue. It is an emergency, especially in rabbits and debilitated animals.

Severe🐕 Dogs🐈 Cats🐰 Rabbits

This may be a veterinary emergency

EMERGENCY: if you see larvae on your pet's skin or a wound, go to the vet immediately. In rabbits it can be fatal within hours.

Symptoms to watch for

  • • Visible larvae in a wound or moist area of the skin
  • • Intense foul odour
  • • A wound that grows and worsens
  • • Lethargy, pain
  • • In rabbits: often in the perianal area if it is dirty

Causes

Flies that lay eggs in wounds, dirty or moist skin, or areas with accumulated urine/faeces. Older, ill, poorly groomed animals or those with reduced mobility are more vulnerable. In rabbits it is very common and serious.

Diagnosis

Immediate visual diagnosis: the larvae are visible.

Treatment

EMERGENCY: removal of all larvae, cleaning and disinfection of the wound, pain management, antibiotics and antiparasitic treatment. Treat the underlying cause of the wound or soiling.

Prevention

Hygiene, keeping the perianal area clean (especially in rabbits and older animals), treating wounds promptly, and fly control in summer.

When should you see the vet?

EMERGENCY: if you see larvae on your pet's skin or a wound, go to the vet immediately. In rabbits it can be fatal within hours.

Consult a vet24 h emergency vets nearby

WetAi guides you and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Wallapets accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.

Wallapets Sign in