Clinton Parkway

Chiggers

Description

Chiggers, or harvest mites are microscopic, reddish arachnids that are difficult to see with the naked eye. In excellent lighting, one might see a pinpoint reddish dot on the inflamed area.

Microscope view of chigger mite

Photomicroscope image of chigger mite

The larvae hatch in grass and foliage and attach to a pore or hair follicle and inject digestive enzymes into the hole that promptly dissolve the surrounding skin cells which are then used for nourishment by the growing chigger. Once they’ve eaten their fill they release from their hosts, grow into adults and feed on plant matter on which they lay more eggs.

Clinical signs

The bites themselves usually progress into super-itchy, raised red welts that can take up to two weeks to heal. Chiggers are not contagious from pet to pet.

Eliminating chiggers from your property

Chiggers are active during the warm season from spring to early fall. They can be found living in berry patches and bushes, tall grass and weeds, straw, leaves, fences, bark, and dense foliage. Keep grass trimmed and weeds pulled. Remove any dense foliage that isn’t part of the landscaping as well as piles of decaying leaves and plant matter.

Chigger treatment and prevention

A monthly dose of Frontline Plus should be effective in preventing chiggers. If a pet becomes infected with chiggers, it’s important that you wash the pet with a mild detergent. Once dry, we advise spray any inflamed areas with a flea spray such as Adams Flea and Tick Mist to kill any larvae present.

• Information on how to apply Frontline Plus