06/05/2026
New World Screwworm Control Starts with Prevention! 🐴🐶🐄
In both large animal and small animals screwworm flies are attracted to open wounds, cuts, scrapes and surgery sights. Unlike common fly larvae that may infect a wound with dead tissue the screwworm larvae invade and consume living flesh, turning even small wounds into a large problem.
🐶 For Dogs and Cats:
We use and recommend Simparica monthly flea tick preventative or the yearly injectable Bravecto Quantum flea tick preventative product because medications in this class have been proven to kill the larvae before they can become a problem.
We use and recommend Revolution plus for monthly flea and tick control in cats. The ingredients in Revolution plus will also kill the larvae, but prompt veterinary care, wound management, and physical removal of maggots remain essential. If you notice any suspicious wound or maggot infestation, contact your veterinarian immediately.
🐴🐄 For Horses and Cattle:
✅ Check animals daily for cuts, scrapes, surgical sites, or any draining wounds.
✅ Treat wounds promptly.
✅ Catron® IV spray Wound Dressing, can help protect wounds from flies and is approved for use inside the wound.
✅ For cattle, Exzolt is a longer lasting approved insecticidal treatment available through your veterinarian.
🚨 Watch for signs of screwworm infestation:
• A wound that suddenly gets larger
• Foul odor or unusual discharge
• Excessive licking, biting, or irritation
• Visible maggots in a wound
At Southwest Texas Veterinary Medical Center, we're closely monitoring the situation and are here to help protect your pets and livestock. Prevention, daily observation, and prompt wound care remain our best defenses against screwworm.
📞 Have questions about wound care products or parasite prevention? Give us a call!
