A Beginner's Guide to Harvest Mites in Dogs and Cats
Harvest mites are tiny parasites that can cause a great deal of discomfort for dogs and cats, particularly during the warmer months. Many pet owners are unaware of what harvest mites are, what they look like and how they affect their pets. This guide will cover everything you need to know, including symptoms to watch out for, treatment options and ways to help prevent infestations.
Key Takeaways
Here are the five biggest takeaways from this article about harvest mites in dogs and cats:
Harvest mites are microscopic parasites most active during late summer and autumn.
Dogs and cats can develop itching, redness and irritation when infested by harvest mites.
Symptoms in pets can vary but often include scratching, inflamed skin and visible orange larvae.
Treatment can involve anti-parasite products, anti-inflammatories, or antibiotics in more severe cases.
Preventative steps, such as avoiding high-risk areas and using vet-approved treatments, can reduce the risk of infestations.
What Are Harvest Mites?
Harvest mites, also known as chiggers or Trombiculidae, are tiny orange larvae that attach themselves to animals and feed on skin cells. They are most commonly found in grassy, wooded, or rural areas, especially in late summer and autumn. These mites do not burrow into the skin but pierce the surface to feed, causing irritation and inflammation.
Although harvest mites are more of a nuisance than a serious health threat, the itching and discomfort can be distressing for pets and may lead to secondary skin infections if left untreated.
Harvest Mites on Dogs
Dogs are particularly prone to harvest mite infestations due to their time spent outdoors. Areas with long grass, bracken, or fields can be hotspots for these parasites.
Symptoms in dogs
Common signs of harvest mites in dogs include:
Persistent scratching or licking
Red or inflamed patches of skin, particularly around the feet, ears, belly and chest
Small clusters of bright orange or red dots, which are the larvae themselves
Restlessness and discomfort, especially after walks in rural areas
If your dog develops skin irritation during harvest mite season, it is worth considering these parasites as a possible cause.
Harvest Mites on Cats
Cats that roam outdoors, particularly in gardens, fields, or woodland areas, are also at risk of harvest mite infestations. They are often affected around the face, ears, and paws.
Symptoms in cats
Signs that a cat may have harvest mites include:
Excessive grooming or scratching
Red patches of irritated skin
Tiny orange dots visible in clusters, especially between toes and around the head
Scabbing or crusting caused by self-trauma from scratching
Cats may be less tolerant of itching compared to dogs, making infestations particularly bothersome for them.
What do harvest mite bites look like?
Harvest mite bites appear as clusters of tiny red spots on the skin. In some cases, the orange larvae may still be visible attached to the pet. The surrounding skin can appear inflamed and pets may scratch or lick the affected area until it becomes sore.
On lighter-coated animals, the mites are often easier to spot. On darker fur, owners may notice the redness and irritation before seeing the mites themselves.
Diagnosing Harvest Mites
Diagnosing harvest mites typically involves a veterinary examination. A vet may identify the larvae on the skin using a magnifying glass or take a sample for further testing. Because the mites are seasonal and location-based, vets often make a diagnosis based on symptoms and recent outdoor activity.
The below video by Pet Health Club provides a summary of harvest mites for dog owners:
Harvest Mites Treatment for Dogs and Cats
Treatment for harvest mites aims to relieve itching, reduce inflammation, and prevent infection. Depending on severity, your vet may recommend one or more of the following options [1].
Anti-parasite treatments
Veterinary-prescribed parasite control products can help kill harvest mites and protect against reinfestation. These are usually applied directly to the pet’s skin or given as oral medication.
Anti-inflammatories
Anti-inflammatory medicines may be prescribed to reduce redness, swelling and itching. This helps keep pets comfortable while their skin heals.
Antibiotics
If the skin has become infected due to excessive scratching or open wounds, antibiotics may be necessary to prevent complications. These are generally prescribed in tablet or liquid form and taken over a course of several days or weeks.
Preventing Harvest Mites
Prevention is an important step in managing harvest mites. While it is not always possible to avoid them entirely, you can take measures to reduce risk:
Avoid walking dogs in areas known to be heavily infested, such as long grass and bracken, especially in late summer and autumn.
Keep cats indoors during peak mite season if they are prone to infestations.
Regularly use vet-approved flea and tick treatments, as some of these can also help protect against harvest mites.
Groom your pet frequently and check for signs of mites after walks or outdoor play.
Seasonal Canine Illness and Harvest Mites
There has been some debate about whether harvest mites are linked to Seasonal Canine Illness (SCI). SCI is a condition that affects dogs in late summer and early autumn, often causing vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, and, in severe cases, collapse. While the exact cause of SCI is unknown, harvest mites have been investigated as a possible factor.
At the time of writing there is no confirmed evidence that harvest mites directly cause SCI. However, because both conditions occur at the same time of year, awareness of the potential overlap is important for dog owners.
When should I see a vet?
You should seek veterinary advice if:
Your pet is persistently scratching, licking, or showing signs of discomfort.
You notice red, inflamed, or sore patches on their skin.
The itching leads to broken skin, scabbing, or suspected infection.
Your pet develops additional symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, or lethargy during mite season.
Prompt treatment not only eases discomfort but also helps prevent more serious complications.
Final Thoughts from Vicki
"Harvest mites can be irritating and uncomfortable for dogs and cats, but with the right knowledge and care they can be managed effectively. By recognising the symptoms early, seeking veterinary guidance and taking preventative steps, you can help protect your pet from the discomfort of these tiny parasites".
