Treating a maggot-infested wound (myiasis) in cats is crucial and should be done carefully to avoid further complications. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to manage this condition:

1. Isolate the Cat: Keep the cat calm and in a secure place to prevent further stress and potential spread of maggots.
2. Assess the Situation: Examine the wound to understand the extent of the infestation. This will help in determining the severity and the amount of care needed.
3. Gather Supplies:
   • Gloves
   • Tweezers or forceps
   • Sterile saline solution or warm water
   • Antiseptic solution (e.g., chlorhexidine)
   • Clean towels or gauze
   • Antibiotic ointment
   • Fly repellent ointment (specific for wounds, if recommended by a vet)
   • Elizabethan collar (to prevent the cat from licking the wound)
   • Towels to wrap the cat, if needed
4. Remove the Maggots:
   • Wear gloves to protect yourself.
   • Gently clean the wound with sterile saline solution or warm water to flush out as many maggots as possible.
   • Use tweezers or forceps to carefully remove the maggots one by one. Ensure you remove all maggots, including any that might be burrowed deep within the tissue.
   • Dispose of the maggots safely, preferably in a container with a secure lid.
5. Clean the Wound:
   • After removing the maggots, clean the wound thoroughly with antiseptic solution to disinfect the area.
   • Pat the wound dry with a clean towel or gauze.
6. Apply Medication:
   • Apply an antibiotic ointment to the wound to prevent infection.
   • If recommended by a vet, apply a fly repellent ointment to the surrounding area to prevent further infestation.
7. Protect the Wound:
   • If the wound is large or in a place where the cat can easily lick it, consider using an Elizabethan collar to prevent further self-trauma and contamination.
8. Monitor the Cat:
   • Keep a close watch on the wound for any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge.
   • Ensure the cat is in a clean and dry environment to promote healing.
9. Follow-Up Veterinary Care:
   • It’s essential to take the cat to a veterinarian for a thorough examination. The vet may prescribe systemic antibiotics and pain relief if necessary.
   • The vet can also check for underlying conditions that may have contributed to the maggot infestation.
10. Prevent Future Infestations:
    • Maintain good hygiene and regularly check your cat for wounds, especially if it spends time outdoors.
    • Use preventive measures, such as fly repellents and keeping the environment clean, to reduce the risk of future infestations.

Immediate veterinary attention is always recommended for maggot-infested wounds in cats to ensure proper care and prevent complications.

Hena’s Blog For Paws © 2019 by Hena Osman is licensed under CC BY 4.0