Persistant Cat Skin Infection

by Edward Frankman
(Tigard, Oregon)

This is a formally feral cat that I have taken in. I am the only person he is not afraid of. Is about 10 years old. The infection looks like there is a rust colored worm on it.

Thanks,

Edward Frankman

Editor Comment

Hi Edward,

There are some parasitic worms that can infect the skin of cats. The only one that I’ve seen personally is the larvae of a bot fly, which this doesn’t appear to be.

It would be best to get your cat in to see a veterinarian. If he becomes extremely nervous around other people, the vet could always give him a sedative. A local veterinarian would also be in the best position to know what types of parasites are most common to the area in which you and your cat live and what danger they pose to your cat’s health.

If you have not already done so, your cat should also be tested for feline leukemia virus, feline immunodeficiency virus, and intestinal parasites; brought up to date on vaccines and parasite control; and be neutered.

Regards,

Jennifer Coates, DVM