How to Recognize and Treat Cuterebra Infestation in Dogs
Many canine owners haven’t heard of the condition cuterebra. This condition occurs when fly eggs take up residence in a canine’s fur. Typically dogs become infected with cuterebra when coming in contact with rodents. If it is not treated properly this condition can be fatal in dogs.
Instructions
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Look for symptoms of a cuterebra infestation. Dogs that are infected typically have a suspicious lump on the head or neck area. There may also be a raised lesion on your canine with a hole in the center of the lesion. The size of the lesion may be ½-inch to 1-inch in diameter.
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Take your canine to the vet for an exam. If your dog displays symptoms of cuterebra she’ll need to be seen by a vet. The vet will examine any masses or lesions present on the dog and make a diagnosis. Because in the later stages this condition can be very serious, don’t waste any time seeking care.
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Create a treatment plan with your medical provider. Ask your vet to remove the infestation. He will disinfect the affected area to ensure the infestation is completely gone.
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Keep the affected area clean. Once the infestation has been removed it’s important to keep the area very clean. You can use a mild unscented soap and warm cloth to cleanse the area daily. Wipe dry after cleaning to ensure the wet area doesn’t become susceptible to bacteria.
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Watch closely for any redness or swelling. Examine your dog’s wound daily to monitor any changes. If the area appears to be getting worse contact your vet to take a look.
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Tips & Warnings
Keep your dog on a short leash. Don’t allow your dog near areas where rodents frequent. This will ensure that your canine doesn’t experience a cuterebra infestation again.
Don’t ever try to remove the larva at home. Doing so may cause a deadly reaction in your canine. For this reason only a veterinarian should remove the infestation.
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Comments
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Cuterebra infections/infestations are very difficult to diagnose. Routine blood work and an assortment of tests/exams were not helpful. In the case of our Yorkie/Jack Russell, sudden severe seizures were the first clue anything was wrong. After a week of a week countless tests/exams, the Vet noticed a lump near the right ear. In performing a biopsy, they noticed the cuterebra as it was coming up for air. It is suspected that Bubba had the infection/infestation for about a month, and by this time the parasites had migrated to the brain, nasal passages, and throat areas. Bubba loved to chase squirrels, cats, and bunny rabbits, and it is in one of these environments where he probably contacted the eggs from the Botfly. The first seizure took place nearly two weeks ago. The Vet explained yesterday, Bubba probably has another two-three days before we are going to have to make a decision. Despite the antiparasite medication that was administered immediately upon identification of the cuterebra, Bubba is unable to eat or drink due to much swelling and great difficutly swallowing. His weight loss was over 1 lb in a weeks time, and even greater now in nearly two weeks. He is but a shadow of his former self, and understandably, is extremly weak. Bubba has been a great pet, and a wonderful friend. The joy he brought into our hearts and our home was precious, exhilerating, and unspeakable. He was an amazing animal, and we are so thankful the Lord blessed our lives with his presence over these past 7 years. Today, Nancy and continue to hold out hope for his recovery, and our prayers and love are always with him.
