Barri J. Morrison

New World screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax) is a parasitic fly whose larvae feed on living tissue of warm-blooded animals, including pets, livestock, wildlife, and occasionally people. Unlike most fly larvae, which feed on dead tissue, screwworm larvae invade and consume living tissue, causing severe tissue damage. New World screwworm is attracted to wounds and open bodily orifices such as the nose, eyes, ears, mouth, and genitals where they lay eggs.

Whether or not your pet is itchy, flea dirt is a telltale sign that your furry family member has fleas. Flea dirt appears as small black specks on your pet’s skin and in their fur. It can easily be confused with other skin conditions, such as scabbing from allergies in dogs or debris from ear mites in cats. Let’s learn how to tell the difference. Flea dirt is not actually dirt—it's waste that contains digested blood from the flea’s host.

Fleas are one of the most common external parasites in cats, and these insects can be quite pesky. Knowing how to get rid of fleas on cats can help if your feline friend is affected. A variety of flea treatments are available for cats, and understanding how each one works can help you choose the most effective option to eliminate fleas from your pet and your home. Cats of all ages and breeds are susceptible to fleas. Cats are often allergic to flea bites, leading to skin inflammation and itchiness.