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Botfly Infection in Dogs: What Owners Should Know

Botflies (Cuterebra species) are parasitic flies that can affect dogs, cats, rabbits, and other animals. Their larvae burrow into the skin and develop in a swelling called a warble. While it can look alarming, with proper care dogs usually recover well.

How Dogs Get Botflies

Botflies typically lay eggs near rodent or rabbit burrows. When a curious dog sniffs or brushes against these areas, the tiny larvae can attach to the skin and burrow inside.

Symptoms of Botfly Infection in Dogs

• A raised lump or swelling on the skin

• A small breathing hole in the center of the lump

• Redness, irritation, or discharge

• Excessive licking, scratching, or biting at the site

• Signs of pain when the area is touched

• Rarely, coughing, sneezing, or neurological symptoms (if larvae migrate internally)

Why You Shouldn’t Remove It at Home

Many owners are tempted to squeeze the lump—but this can cause the larva to rupture, leading to severe infection or allergic reaction.

Veterinary Treatment

• Safe removal: The vet extracts the larva carefully through the breathing hole.

• Wound care: The area is cleaned and disinfected.

• Medications: Antibiotics or anti-inflammatories may be prescribed if infection or irritation is present.

• Follow-up: Most dogs heal quickly after removal.

Prevention Tips

• Keep dogs away from rodent and rabbit burrows, especially in late summer and fall when botflies are most active.

• Regularly check your dog’s skin for unusual lumps.

• Maintain a clean yard and reduce exposure to wild animal habitats.

When to See a Vet Immediately

• If you notice a lump with a breathing hole

• If your dog is constantly licking or scratching one spot

• If the swelling becomes painful, red, or starts draining pus

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Bottom line: Botfly infections in dogs may look scary, but with prompt veterinary care, most cases resolve quickly. The safest approach is never to attempt removal at home—always let a vet handle it.