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Overview:
Trombiculid mites (also known
as harvest mites & red bugs) are tiny vivid red-orange coloured mites.
They live in decaying vegetation & cats become infected while roaming these
affected areas.
Only the larval form (known as
chiggers) are parasitic to cats. Once on the host, they pierce the skin & inject
saliva containing digestive enzymes to break down the skin cells, which the
larvae digests. Chiggers can also attack other vertebrates, including humans &
dogs.
What are the
symptoms of chiggers in cats?
Skin lesions, itching &
swelling, especially
around the feet, head, ears & legs.
How are
chiggers diagnosed?
Your veterinarian will perform
a complete physical examination of your cat. The larvae are around the size of a
pinhead & can be seen with the naked eye.
He may take some
skin scrapings
& examine them under a microscope.
How is
trombiculiasis treated?
Treatment involves the
administration of an appropriate parasiticide for cats.
Glucocorticoids may be
prescribed for severe pruritus (itching).
Please note:
The medical
articles on this site have not been written by a veterinarian &
should not be considered a replacement for a veterinarian visit.
The articles are provided for informative purposes only & should
not be used for
the diagnosis or treatment of any
medical condition.
Always seek
immediate veterinary advice for any problems (health or
behavioral) in your pets.
While great care
has been made in the creation of these articles, we cannot
guarantee the accuracy or omissions on these pages. If in any
doubt whatsoever, seek professional medical advice.
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