NHS finds larva in cat's nose, warns pet owners

A stray kitten is recovering today after metro vets remove a bug from its nose.  The Nebraska Humane Society worked quickly to get the parasite out, but say it's a good reminder for all pet owners to watch for warning signs.

The Cuterebra larva ends up becoming a common fly, and likes to find a warm place to grow.  NHS says they're mostly found near rodent holes and in the grass, and tend to burrow themselves in the skin of cats and sometimes dogs that are outside a lot.

"The reason we see it in cats in particular especially kittens is that they're small so they're compromised, they don't groom themselves as well so they're not going to get rid of it, they might ingest it," said Dr. Elizabeth Farrington, a veterinarian with the Nebraska Humane Society.

The bugs aren't looking to latch on to animals, but it can happen and sometimes in a pet’s nose.  NHS says they can remove one a day during a couple of peak weeks in the summer.

"A good owner is going to start noticing the animal is pawing at themselves, or something is itchy or bothering them and they'll take them into their veterinarian. So often times we'll see these guys, these little Cuterebra when they're much smaller than when they get to this size," Dr. Farrington explained.

The bugs are not considered dangerous to animals, but need to be properly treated or they can be infectious.  If you notice one of these in your pet's skin take them to the vet and don't try to get it out yourself.

Veterinarians say there's no way to prevent a Cuterebra from getting on your pet.

For more information go to: http://www.nehumanesociety.org/about-nhs/news-and-publications/cuterebra-season.html