Why are there flies and maggots on or near my cat?

Answer by  katharine (3981)

Having flies and maggots on your cat is not normal. Maggots are usually only present when something is dead and decaying, or where there is an open wound, so you should check your cat thoroughly to see if she has an open wound on her or if she rubbed in something dead.

Answer by  PaintedRoadkill (504)

You need to check her body for abscesses, bites, scratches, or any other wound. Maggots and flies are only attracted to blood and dead flesh. The presence of them suggests there is some sort of open injury that you missed.

Answer by  Valentine62 (2131)

Did you notice any injury? She may have an open sore or may be lying near a place that flies gather around, such as old food or the litter box.

Answer by  Dreamlight (856)

Flies and maggots are attracted to an animal when the flesh is rotting away. Take her to a vet immediately, as there is likely something very wrong with her.

Answer by  Lottadogs (1258)

Maggots are hatched fly eggs and these are seen when there is an infection of some sort. This can be from an open sore such as a bite or other injury. For your cat, this may be from a 'hot spot' skin infection found under damp thick fur.

Answer by  brendalea2121 (206)

Maybe there is something wrong with her skin or maybe she has some kind of odor coming from her that you don't notice. You should take her to the vet to get checked. This is very unusual and she might need medical treatment.

Answer by  Esteme (274)

This is serious as they can make her sick; use a fine comb to remove eggs, and then use a good shampoo on her.