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Myiasis is the medical term for Fly Strike'. It is generally seen in rabbits, guinea-pigs and sheep during the summertime but can be seen in any animal, including humans, at any time of the year.

It is caused when a blowfly (green and blue bottles) lays its eggs in an open wound or heavily soiled fur. The larvae then hatch and start to eat away at any living tissue causing further damage and shock.

If caught in time fly strike can be treated and kept under control. There are now even products on the shelves to deter flies in the first instance. Unfortunately fly strike can also lead to death of the infected animal.

So why does it start? The most commonly affected animals, i.e. rabbits, sheep and guinea-pigs, tend to get soiled and matted coats around the anus. When animals become old, frail or ill, they cannot clean themselves properly and the faeces collect in the coat. The flies are attracted to this and lay their eggs, so starts the cycle.

It only takes a maximum of twenty-four hours for fly eggs to hatch, so it is important that your pet is kept clean and dry at all times. Flies are more common in the summer, which is when the majority of myiasis cases are seen, but it can occur at any time.

How do you tell if your animal has fly strike? The first sign is usually a naked patch near the tail, which is when you will first see the maggots, but it is easy to spot before it has got to this stage. By grooming your pet every day you will be able to see any fly eggs, that look like white flecks stuck in the coat. They can be combed out, but sometimes if formed into a large clump, they will need to be cut out. The larvae will then hatch and start to move deeper into the coat causing damage to the hair, hence it falls out and you see the bald patch.

There is usually a nasty smell as well, which is generally how the investigation starts an owner notices the smell, has a look and will notice burn like' wounds on the animal. It is easy to catch early and just as easily avoidable simply by cleaning out your pet on a very regular basis, especially on hot days and by checking your pet over every day.

What do you do if you notice your animal has fly strike? Take the pet to the vet. The vet and nurses will bathe the animal and pick out the maggots. It is a long and laborious task, but I have found it therapeutic and satisfying in a sadistic kind of way! The animal may come back to you with a major re-hairstyling (i.e. bald!) as they will clip away any fur near the infected area

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