Autumn grass mites – are they only available in autumn? Here you can find out the most important things about the annoying red mites in dogs.
What are autumn grass mites in dogs?
As small as the head of a pin, the autumn grass mite is striking because of its bright orange-red color. The scientific name is “Neotrombicula autumnalis”. But the arachnid is known by many names: autumn mite, hay mite, grass mite or grass, and earth louse.
Autumn mites and larvae from July
Autumn grass mites occur mainly in autumn. However, they can lurk in meadows from July. When we talk about autumn grass mites in dogs, we actually mean their larvae. Because adult autumn mites are vegetarians. Not them, but the newly hatched larvae go in search of a lively “hospitality”. In order to develop into nymphs, they need lymph fluid from a host.
Autumn grass mites infest many animals
Autumn mites mainly attack mice. But they are not averse to other animals. They make themselves less comfortable with people, he is one of the mistaken hosts. Nevertheless, those affected can get an itchy “harvest scab” after being infected by autumn grass mites. Autumn grass mites also infest birds, cats, and dogs. On average they stay on their animal host for a week.
Symptoms: autumn grass mite in dogs
If you look closely, you can see the larvae of the autumn grass mite with the naked eye.
Where do autumn grass mites settle?
- in the spaces between the toes
- the auricles
- on the ledges
- under the armpits.
What are the symptoms of autumn mites?
- severe itching
- redness
- crust formation
- symptoms can persist after the larvae have already dropped off.
Can autumn mites transmit diseases?
The mite larvae are annoying and can damage the skin due to itching. But autumn grass mites very rarely transmit diseases to dogs in our latitudes. However, bacteria clinging to the mite can unbalance the skin. As a person, you do not need to be afraid of contracting autumn grass mites in your four-legged friend. Because the mites feel more comfortable on the dog and will not want to switch to you.
Autumn grass mites – when to the vet?
You don’t need to see the proverbial red immediately and run to the vet when you spot an autumn mite on your four-legged friend. The animals fall off by themselves and do not reproduce on the dog.
Itching can trigger hot spots
However, if your dog scratches itself noticeably often, arrange a visit to the veterinarian. Because itching can be very stressful for the dog. In the worst case, the dog scratches itself so badly that bacteria get under the skin. Mites can lead to excruciating hot spots in dogs.
That is why it is better to ask an expert for advice as soon as you have the feeling that your four-legged friend is having bothersome itching. The veterinarian can make an accurate diagnosis and treat the itchiness.
Treat autumn grass mites
It is rarely necessary to control autumn grass mites on the dog. Because they fall off by themselves. The vet may prescribe an anti-inflammatory ointment if bacteria have gotten into the skin from scratching.
Acaricides against parasitic mites
In rare cases, acaricides are required – by this we mean anti-parasitic agents that contain neurotoxins. These get into the dog’s bloodstream and lymphatic system – and thus also into the mite. Since acaricides also help against ticks, many dog owners are familiar with the means. Attention:
What is suitable for dogs can be fatal for cats – for example, the active ingredient permethrin.
Prevent autumn mites in dogs
The acaricides mentioned usually offer protection against autumn grass mites and ticks. This is why they can be a good choice for dogs in the summer months. Find out beforehand about possible risks and side effects and weigh the benefits.
Wash your dog’s paws with autumn grass mites
If the red mites are only an occasional problem, simple measures are often sufficient. For example, wash off your dog’s paws when you come home after a trip to green meadows. This will wash away many of the red nuisances.
Coconut oil against autumn mites
Some dog owners swear by home remedies for autumn grass mites, such as coconut oil. You can apply this to the dog’s paws before going for a walk. However, prophylaxis does not work for every dog. After all: coconut oil against autumn mites has no side effects and also cares for the paws. However, if the dog licks it off completely, you should not do it.
