Mango Worms in Dogs: Causes, Affected Body Parts, and Treatment

Mango worms, also known as tumbu fly larvae (Cordylobia anthropophaga), are parasites that infect the skin of dogs and other animals. They do not come from a dog’s body but from fly eggs that hatch and develop under the skin.

---

How Dogs Get Mango Worms

Adult mango flies lay eggs on soil, bedding, clothes, or fur that has been soiled with urine or feces. When a dog lies on that surface, the tiny larvae attach to the skin and enter through hair follicles or small wounds. Once under the skin, they grow by feeding on tissue fluids and form swollen bumps filled with pus.

After about 1 to 2 weeks, the larvae mature, come out of the skin, and fall to the ground, where they become adult flies.

---

Body Parts Commonly Affected

Mango worms can burrow into almost any part of a dog’s body. However, they are most often found in areas where the skin is thin or in contact with the ground. These include:

• Belly and chest

• Groin and genital area

• Paws and legs

• Neck and face

• Back or tail area

---

Signs and Symptoms

Dogs infected with mango worms often show clear signs on their skin and behavior. Common symptoms include:

• Red, swollen bumps with a small hole in the center

• Discharge of pus or fluid from the bump

• Movement under the skin (in severe cases)

• Constant licking, scratching, or biting of the area

• Tiredness or loss of appetite in heavy infestations

---

Treatment

The best and safest treatment is done by a veterinarian. The vet will carefully remove the larvae one by one, clean the wound, and apply antiseptic medicine. In some cases, antibiotics are given to prevent infection.

Do not try to squeeze the bumps at home. This can cause pain and spread infection.

---

Prevention

Mango worm infestations can be prevented by keeping your dog and its surroundings clean. Follow these steps:

• Wash and dry your dog’s bedding regularly.

• Iron any fabric or clothing used by the dog to kill fly eggs.

• Avoid letting dogs lie on bare soil in infected areas.

• Use veterinary-approved fly repellents or sprays.

• Maintain good hygiene and regular health checks.

---

Summary

Mango worms do not come from inside a dog’s body. They are fly larvae that enter the skin from outside. The most common body parts affected are the belly, paws, groin, and neck. Proper hygiene, regular cleaning, and quick veterinary care can prevent and treat mango worm infections effectively.