How is subcutaneous mite transmitted to cats? - briefly
The mite reaches cats mainly through direct contact with infested animals or contaminated environments such as bedding and grooming tools. Larval stages can also be carried by intermediate arthropod hosts that the cat brushes against during hunting or grooming.
How is subcutaneous mite transmitted to cats? - in detail
Subcutaneous mites reach domestic cats primarily through direct contact with infected hosts or contaminated environments. The parasite’s life cycle includes an egg stage, larval stage, and adult stage; only the larval form penetrates the skin of a new host. Transmission pathways are:
- Contact with infested wildlife – feral cats, rodents, and small mammals often carry larvae. When a pet cat brushes against or hunts these animals, larvae can enter the skin.
- Shared bedding or grooming tools – fabrics, blankets, or brushes that have housed larvae retain viable organisms for several days. Cats using the same items can acquire the parasite.
- Environmental reservoirs – soil, grass, and leaf litter in outdoor areas where larvae are deposited serve as sources. Cats that roll, dig, or rest in these locations may be exposed.
- Maternal transmission – in rare cases, a pregnant queen can pass larvae to kittens through the placenta or during nursing, though this route is less common than environmental exposure.
Key factors influencing infection risk include:
- Outdoor access – unrestricted outdoor activity increases encounters with wildlife and contaminated substrates.
- Seasonality – larval activity peaks in warm, humid months, raising the probability of transmission during spring and summer.
- Population density – shelters, catteries, and multi‑cat households provide close proximity, facilitating spread between individuals.
Preventive measures focus on limiting exposure to known reservoirs, maintaining strict hygiene of bedding and grooming equipment, and controlling stray animal populations that serve as carriers. Regular veterinary examinations enable early detection and treatment, reducing the likelihood of severe subcutaneous infestation.