Harvest mites in cats: Detection and treatment

Your cat has been out and about in the tall grass and now keeps scratching itself – does it possibly have harvest mites? Harvest mites are tiny parasites that lie in wait for their next victim in the grass, especially in the warmer months. Mite bites cause severe itching in cats and can cause skin irritation. We tell you how to detect mites and correctly deal with them. 

What are harvest mites?

Harvest mites, also known as autumn chiggers or berry bugs, are small parasites that live in grass. They are particularly active in late summer and autumn and belong to the arachnid family. 

The mites are 0.2 to 0.3 mm in size and red to brownish in colour. Despite their small size, the bites can cause their victims considerable itching and discomfort. 

Tip: As the mites are almost impossible to spot in the grass with the naked eye, there is a trick. Place a white plate in the grass, if brown to orange dots collect on it, then there are mites. So mow frequently and keep the grass as short as possible. 

Are harvest mites dangerous for cats? 

Yes, harvest mites can be dangerous for cats. Especially if they cause an allergic reaction or an infection. A harvest mite bite can lead to skin irritation, itching, redness and even infection. It can also cause an allergic reaction in some cats, which can lead to more serious symptoms such as severe itching, hair loss and skin inflammation. 

How can you tell if your cat has mites?

It is difficult to determine whether your cat is plagued by harvest mites. The symptoms are usually non-specific, but these signs are indicative: 

Detecting harvest mites in cats can be challenging as the symptoms are often non-specific. Here are some signs that your cat may be affected by harvest mites:

• Itching and scratching: Harvest mite bites cause intense itching. Your cat will scratch and bite more to get rid of the feeling.
• Redness and skin irritation: Harvest mite bites usually cause small, red spots or pustules on your cat's skin, especially on its paws, belly and ears. 
• Loss of fur: Constant scratching in certain areas can lead to partial hair loss.
• Restlessness and discomfort: Your feline friend is acting restless and seems to be uncomfortable. 

If you notice these symptoms in your cat, you should take them to the vet. 

Treatment options: Treatments for mites in cats

Here's what you can do to help your cat if it is suffering from a harvest mite infestation: 

• Use antiparasitic treatments: There are special formulations that help to combat mites. Spot-ons, sprays or shampoos can act directly on the cat's skin and kill the mites.
• Administer itch-relieving medication: Soothe irritated cat skin with special ointments and medication from the vet. 
• Use grooming products: If your cat doesn't object, regular baths with mite-repellent shampoos can help to reduce the mite population.

Home remedies for harvest mites in cats

In addition to pharmaceutical preparations, some household remedies can also help to protect cats from harvest mites or to reduce infestation:

• Coconut oil: Coconut oil has antimicrobial properties and can be applied to the skin to relieve itching and ward off mites.
• Aloe vera: Aloe vera gel can be applied to the affected areas to soothe the skin and support the healing process.
• Vinegar solution: A diluted vinegar solution (1 part vinegar to 3 parts water) can help soothe your cat's skin and kill mites. Carefully wipe the affected areas with the solution. Sensitive cat noses may be bothered by the rather pungent odour. Be careful not to burn your cat's skin. 

PLEASE NOTE: These home remedies for harvest mites can help with treatment and prevention and should only be used in addition to veterinary treatment. 

Prevention: How to protect your cat from harvest mites

Prevention is the best way to protect your feline friend from the unpleasant effects of harvest mites:

• Strengthen the skin barrier: A healthy diet with plenty of omega 3 & 6 fatty acids will strengthen your cat's skin barrier. Varieties like CAT'S LOVE Adult Salmon 85g can help to keep their coat and skin healthy. 
• Coat care: Regular brushing and combing removes skin flakes and dead hair, which contributes to healthy skin. 
• Regular checks: Check your cat's coat and skin regularly for signs of mite infestation, especially after foraging through tall grass.
• Hygiene: Keep your cat's environment clean. Wash blankets and pillows and clean sleeping and living areas thoroughly.
• Protection against parasites: Use antiparasitic agents to prevent mite infestation. 
• Risk minimisation: If possible, reduce your cat's access to the outdoors in late summer and autumn, especially if you live in a high-risk area.
• Lawn mowing: If you have a garden, you should mow the grass regularly and keep the lawn short. 

Conclusion

Harvest mites can be very unpleasant for cats, they can cause significant skin problems and discomfort. Timely detection and treatment are crucial to ensure the well-being of your feline friend. If you notice signs of a mite infestation, you should consult a vet immediately. With the right products and precautionary measures, you can effectively protect your cat from harvest mites and give them a pleasant summer and autumn. 

Treat your feline friend to high-quality, healthy food right from the start!