Pets are always subject to parasite infestations. It is important to be vigilant so that they do not harm the animal's health. Botfly in cats, for example, is a disease that causes pain and a lot of discomfort.

Caused by flies, botfly can affect any animal, but dogs and most cats are the most affected in urban areas. Therefore, read the text below to understand how this disease occurs.

What is botfly in cats?

Botfly is caused by a blowfly of the species Dermatobia hominis . This insect lays its eggs on the skin of an animal or on other species of flies .

The larva develops inside the eggs. When the temperature is right, it grows in the animal's subcutaneous tissue, that is, under the skin. This is how the disease develops, characterized as botfly in cats or other animals.

Berne x myiasis

Both botfly and myiasis are parasitic diseases caused by flies. The difference is that, in the case of the latter, the insect species is different: it is Cochliomyia hominivorax . Attracted by the smell of secretions and blood from wounds, it approaches the cat and lays its eggs.

Another big difference between the two diseases is that, in botfly, only one larva develops and remains in the skin. In myiasis, however, numerous larvae are seen, which feed on the cat's tissue and muscles, causing large lesions.

How is botfly diagnosed in cats?

It is important to know how to identify botfly in cats visually. By observing the pet's skin, you may notice a lump with a small hole. It is through this hole that the larva breathes.

Symptoms of botfly in cats

Symptoms of botfly in cats begin with intense pain in the affected area. The cat usually licks the affected area a lot. Due to the great discomfort and itching in the area, the feline may become sadder and more depressed.

They also tend to be less sociable and less tolerant of people. If they like affection, they may refuse it when they have parasites. Because of all this, botfly in cats can also cause a lack of appetite and less water consumption.

Consequently, the cat may lose weight and, in more severe cases, become dehydrated. Although botfly is caused by a single larva, the cat may present several individual lesions at once, worsening the clinical picture.

Treatment for botfly in cats

If you notice or suspect that your cat has a parasite, you should see a veterinarian. They will know how to treat botfly in cats , since the larvae cannot be removed in any way.

Many owners try to squeeze the lump to get the larva out. However, in addition to causing even more pain to the cat, this may not be enough to expel the parasite completely. It may only come out halfway, or it may go in even further. This can cause the already injured area to become even more inflamed.

Treatment for botfly in cats involves correctly removing the larvae using the correct instruments. Your veterinarian may also prescribe a medication to kill the parasite before removing it.

Other measures for the cat's recovery include medication to control pain and inflammation, as well as the administration of antibiotics. It all depends on the animal's clinical condition. More skittish pets may require light sedation to remove the larva.

Is there a home remedy for botfly in cats?

Have you ever heard of placing a piece of meat over the skin hole to expel the botfly? This homemade method is intended to prevent the larvae from receiving oxygen, trying to escape and breathe. However, it is not at all effective.

Another homemade recipe found on the internet involves applying nail polish to the affected area. However, there is no proof that this method works. In addition, it can cause allergies, irritation, burns and even poisoning if the cat licks it.

Therefore, when it comes to your cat's health, you need to be very careful! Using non-recommended methods without your veterinarian's advice can make the problem worse. This makes treatment more difficult later on.

How to prevent botfly in cats?

As you have seen, botfly infestation in cats is caused by flies. They are usually found everywhere. To reduce the incidence of these insects in your home, it is best to keep the environment clean. Frequent cleaning of your home helps to prevent the appearance of insects.

Cats are very hygienic. During a “tongue bath,” they can remove possible fly eggs from their fur. Even so, it’s worth keeping an eye on your cat’s body, especially in areas that are harder to lick. Help keep your pet clean.

It is also worth investing in antiparasitic medications, such as collars, tablets or pipettes. They prevent fleas and parasites , and also work as repellents. Talk to your veterinarian to find out which product is best for your cat.