How can I tell if my pet has cuterebriasis?

Common signs include skin sores, a foul-smelling wound, or visible small white larvae, sometimes with reduced appetite or changes in gait. If you notice these signs, seek veterinary assessment promptly.

Can it spread to other animals or people?

Flies may lay eggs in dirty areas or around wounds, so multiple animals can be affected in the same environment. Keeping the area clean and separating the affected pet can reduce risk; ask your vet for advice if needed.

Can I clean the wound and remove the maggots at home?

Short-term photo records can help your vet assess the problem, but deep wound cleaning or medicating at home is not recommended. If the wound enlarges or many maggots appear, take your pet to a vet as soon as possible.

How long does it take to fully recover after treatment?

Recovery time depends on wound depth and infection severity. Mild cases may improve within a few weeks, while serious infections may take weeks to months. Follow your vet's instructions for regular follow-up checks.

How much do the tests and treatment usually cost?

Costs vary by clinic and region — ask your vet for an estimate before proceeding.

Disease Guide

Cuterebriasis in Pets: Skin Sores, Diagnosis & Wound Care [2025]

Cuterebriasis is a condition where botfly larvae live under the skin and must be removed carefully to reduce infection risk; some cases may affect the nervous system.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/17

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: AVMA, WSAVA, National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital

When to See a Vet

Seek immediate emergency care

•Heavy bleeding from the wound that cannot be stopped, accompanied by weakness
•Sudden loss of mobility or collapse with unresponsiveness
•Large number of maggots visible with a strong foul odor from the wound

Schedule a clinic visit soon (within 24–72 hours)

•Small holes in the skin or persistent discharge with an abnormal odor
•Small white worms visible moving in the wound, but pet is still alert
•Noticeably decreased appetite or weakness lasting more than 24 hours

01What symptoms suggest something is wrong?

Cuterebriasis is more common in pets with existing skin wounds or soiling. In addition to local skin ulceration, it may affect mobility and overall alertness.

Skin sores, an open hole, or ongoing discharge with an unpleasant smell
Visible maggots or small white larvae moving in or around the wound
Abnormal walking, unsteady gait, or limping
Reduced vision or responsiveness, such as bumping into objects or seeming slow to react
Lower energy, reduced appetite, or changes in water intake

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Sudden weakness or paralysis of the hind legs, or complete inability to move
⚠️ Heavy bleeding from the skin or bleeding that does not stop
⚠️ Loss of consciousness, extreme weakness, or no response

02How can you assess changes at home? Key observations and emergency signs

A clear timeline and images from home help your vet assess the condition quickly and decide treatment priorities.

Record when the signs started and how they have changed over time
Write down daily changes in appetite and water intake
Take photos or videos of the wound and front and side views of your pet walking
Record urination and bowel movement frequency and note any abnormalities
Weigh your pet weekly and track any trend
If the wound worsens or many maggots are present, arrange a veterinary appointment as soon as possible

03How will the vet diagnose it? Common tests and examinations

At the clinic, your vet will assess your pet's overall condition, wound depth, and whether infection has spread, then arrange any necessary imaging and laboratory tests.

Physical examination

assesses pain, wound size, and the condition of surrounding tissue

Blood tests and biochemistry

assess systemic infection and organ function

Urinalysis

assesses kidney function or related complications

X-rays or CT

used when needed to assess deeper tissue damage

Wound culture

identifies the type of bacteria and the degree of infection

A hospital with advanced imaging equipment may be recommended for a complete assessment

04How is it treated and cared for after diagnosis? Medicines, diet changes, and home care

Treatment focuses on wound cleaning, infection control, and supportive care. Follow-up checks and nursing care are also important for recovery.

Follow your vet's instructions for wound debridement and regular dressing changes
Use clinic-recommended medicines to control infection and inflammation as prescribed
Attend follow-up visits to check wound healing and review culture or imaging results
Improve diet and the home environment to support wound repair and immune recovery
If the wound continues to worsen or whole-body signs appear, specialist assessment may be recommended

05What should you prepare before seeing the vet? Key details that help identify the cause

Write down when the problem began and how the signs have changed

Bring photos or videos of the wound and your pet walking, including front and side views

Prepare records from the past week covering diet, toileting, and behaviour changes

List all current medicines and supplements

Bring previous test reports or surgical records if available

Call ahead to book and let the clinic know whether there are many maggots in the wound

This content is for reference only and cannot replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of illness, please seek veterinary care promptly.