Why is my cat scratching itself? Recognizing autumn grass mites

Autumn grass mites – what exactly are they?

Autumn grass mites (Neotrombicula autumnalis) belong to the mite family. They are particularly active between July and November and live in tall grasses and bushes. The autumn grass mite larvae are particularly problematic because they need a host to develop further.

Life cycle of the autumn grass mite:

• The adult mite lives in the soil and is harmless to animals and humans.
• In late summer, the mites lay eggs from which larvae hatch.
• These larvae actively search for hosts such as cats, dogs or humans to feed on tissue fluid.
• They bite into the upper layers of skin , cause redness and severe itching, and fall off again after a few days.

Why do autumn grass mites appear particularly in autumn?

Autumn grass mites love moist and warm conditions, which is why late summer and autumn are ideal for their reproduction. The larvae are particularly active when:

• The temperatures are between 15 and 25 °C.
• There are moist soils, e.g. in gardens or meadows with tall grass.
• Cats roam through such areas, increasing the risk of infestation.

How do you know if your cat is infected with grass mites?

Symptoms of an infestation with grass mites:

1. Severe itching : Your cat constantly scratches and often licks the affected areas.

2. Orange dots : Small orange dots can be seen on the skin, but sometimes they can be so small that they are overlooked.

3. Affected parties :

• Between the toes
• On the stomach and chest
• Around the ears or on the snout

Allergic reactions : Sensitive cats may experience swelling, redness and small nodules.

How do you treat autumn grass mites in your cat?

1. Cleaning the affected areas

• Use a damp cloth to carefully remove the larvae from the skin.
  For more precise cleaning we recommend our cleaning glove
• Effectively removes dirt and mite larvae.
• Soothes the skin through gentle massage.
• Particularly suitable for sensitive areas such as paws or ears.

2. Application of spot-ons

• Spot-on products are a proven method for controlling grass mites.

• Your veterinarian can prescribe a suitable medication that also works against other parasites such as fleas or ticks.
• These products not only kill the larvae but also provide protection against re-infestation.

• Care products for sensitive skin can help relieve itching and promote healing of affected areas.
• In case of severe allergic reactions or inflammation, the veterinarian may prescribe anti-inflammatory medication.

• Clean bedding, blankets, and other fabrics your cat comes into contact with to completely remove mite larvae.
• Keep your yard free of tall grass to minimize the risk of re-infestation.

How can you prevent autumn grass mites in cats?

1. Avoid tall grass and risk areas

• Do not let your cat roam through tall grass during the peak season for fall grass mites (July to November).
• Reduce piles of leaves or wild grass in your garden as they are an ideal habitat for the larvae.

• Check your cat regularly for symptoms such as orange spots or redness.
• Brush or clean their fur after every time they go outside. Our cleaning glove is particularly helpful for gently removing dirt and possible larvae from the fur.

• Use spot-ons regularly to prevent infestation with grass mites and other parasites such as fleas or ticks.

4. Keep the environment hygienic

• Vacuum and clean carpets, blankets and upholstered furniture regularly.
• Wash all fabrics your cat comes into contact with at least 60 °C to kill possible larvae.

Why is prompt treatment important?

An infestation with autumn grass mites not only causes severe itching, but can also:

• Lead to skin irritation and inflammation if the cat scratches the affected areas.
• Increase allergic reactions.
• Secondary infections occur when scratching causes wounds.

Why is our cleaning glove ideal for autumn grass mites?

Proper care is crucial to quickly help your cat if it is infested with autumn grass mites. Our cleaning glove offers:

• Precise cleaning : Removes larvae and dirt even in hard-to-reach places such as paws or between the toes.
• Gentle care : Soothes the skin and relieves itching with a pleasant massage.
• High acceptance : Also suitable for cats that don't like being brushed.
• Convenient to use : Simple and convenient for you as a cat owner.

Can autumn grass mites infect humans?

Yes, grass mites can also affect humans. The larvae cause small red spots on the skin that itch a lot and are often mistaken for mosquito bites. People who spend a lot of time in the garden or out in nature with their animals are particularly at risk.

What to do if you are affected?

• Wash the affected areas with warm water and a mild soap to remove the larvae.
• Apply an anti-itch ointment if the skin is severely irritated.
• Avoid scratching as this may further irritate the skin and cause infection.

Prevention for humans and animals:

• Wear long clothing when gardening or walking to minimize contact with tall grass.
• Use spot-ons on your animals and regularly clean their sleeping areas to prevent the spread of the larvae.

Through a combination of good hygiene, regular care of your animals and a clean environment, you can effectively protect yourself and your pets from autumn grass mites.

Autumn grass mites in cats are a common problem in late summer and autumn. With the right prevention, effective treatments such as spot-ons and targeted care, you can help your cat to quickly relieve the itching. ❤️