Rat
Rescue :: Flystrike
Flystrike
Flystrike is a horrible illness that can cause terrible pain
and distress to an animal and can even lead to death. However,
there are simple, easy steps you can take to help prevent it.
What it is
Flystrike happens when adult flies lay their eggs in faeces-soiled
fur around a rabbit's or guinea pig’s bottom. Within as little
as 8-10 hours the eggs hatch into rapidly-multiplying maggots
which feed on the animal by burrowing into its flesh.
This causes extreme pain and distress for the animal and eventually,
they will go into shock and die. While flystrike most commonly
occurs in rabbits and guinea pigs, debilitated cats and dogs
who are unable to groom themselves properly, can be affected
too.
Pet hygiene and prevention
It is imperative that you give any pet a daily hygiene check
– twice daily during hot and humid weather, when flies are particularly
active.
Examine your pet every morning and evening and check that their
fur is clean, dry and not matted. If their bottom is not clean,
use cotton wool and warm water or fragrance free baby wipes
to clean it for them.
In the case of rabbits and guinea pigs, change their bedding
daily and ensure the rest of their home is clean and dry. Be
particularly vigilant if the pet has ‘loose’ droppings, as they
will be more at risk.
To keep the flies away, use a suitable pet-friendly fly repellent
available from your vet or pet store, and hang a fly strip close
to the hutch. (The safest fly strips to buy are available from
equestrian centres – some traditional fly strips or fly killers
may be suitable for household use, but can be lethal in close
proximity to small pets).
There is also a product called Rearguard that is suitable for
rabbits and promises to keep them free from maggot infestation
for up to 10 weeks.
Speak to your vet for further help and information on preventative
measures.
Finally, if you think your pet may be suffering from flystrike
or you can see maggots, treat it as an emergency and get your
pet to a vet immediately. Prompt treatment can save your pet
from unnecessary suffering and even death.
