Cases of cat parasites found in Decorah

Several Decorah families have reported their pets have gotten Cuterebra parasites. 

The parasite is known as an 'opportunistic' parasite, as it uses host animals to complete its lifecycle.  The process begins when a large adult fly lays its eggs around plants, rocks and other objects.  As the animal passes by these objects, the eggs attach themselves to the animal's body. In response to the mammal's body heat, the eggs hatch and enter the animal's body through their mouth, nose or an open wound. The larvae make a small hole on the surface of the animal's skin to breathe. This is when it is most visible to the human eye, as it appears as a lump in the surface of the skin. This parasite remains in the host animal for about 30 days until it exits to become an adult Cuterebra fly. 

This parasite infestation can present itself in three different forms. The most common is the parasite appearing as a cyst on the animal; which usually does not result in disease or distress for the animal. The other two forms are much more serious. Neurologic disease occurs when the parasite migrates through the brain. Signs of this disease include abnormal head tilting, blindness, continuous vocalization, seizures or other abnormal behavior. This disease is often fatal. Lastly, respiratory disease is exhibited by facial swelling, troubled breathing, and sometimes bloody nasal discharge.  This disease often precedes a neurological disease.

If you or someone you know is concerned that their animal may have been infected by this parasite, seek veterinary assistance immediately. Although the Cuterebra parasite can not be passed on to humans, it is important that it is properly removed from your pet before it leads to more serious, potentially fatal, diseases, according to the Companion Animal Parasite Council.