If you’ve discovered maggots on cats bum, it’s more than just disturbing — it’s a medical emergency. This condition often happens because of flystrike, a dangerous problem where flies lay eggs on dirty or wounded areas, and maggots begin feeding on your cat’s skin.
Here’s what you need to do right away:
- Stay calm — panic makes it harder to help your cat.
- Act fast — maggots multiply quickly (eggs hatch in 8–24 hours).
- Seek vet care — professional treatment is always necessary.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to treat maggots on cats bum, how to prevent them, and why proper hygiene and grooming are key to keeping your cat safe.
Table of Contents
How Do You Treat Maggots on Cats Bum?
If you’ve just noticed maggots on cats bum, your heart probably dropped — and for good reason. This isn’t a small issue like a scratch or flea bite. It’s a life-threatening emergency where every hour counts. Many cat parents wonder, “Do I really need to rush to the vet? Can’t I just clean it at home?” The truth may shock you: maggots can eat through living tissue faster than you think, turning a small wound into a deadly infection.
So how exactly do you treat it? Let’s break it down.
First Aid Steps You Can Take at Home
Before you race to the vet, a few immediate actions can make the difference between life and death:
- Spot and remove maggots: Use clean tweezers to gently pull visible maggots out.
- Trim the fur: Carefully clip away dirty or matted hair around the bum.
- Clean the wound: Wash with a mild antiseptic.
- Keep your cat calm: Wrap them in a towel to prevent stress or scratching.
But here’s the curious part most owners don’t realize: even if you think you’ve removed all the maggots, chances are high that tiny larvae are still buried under the skin, invisible to the naked eye. That’s why first aid is only a stopgap.
Which leads to the next step — the one that really saves your cat’s life.
Recommended First Aid Products
- Professional Pet First Aid Tweezers Kit
PetVet Medic Cat & Dog First Aid Kit – Dog Emergency Kit, Do…
$99.00 (as of October 21, 2025 16:40 GMT +00:00 – More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
EVERLIT Pet Medic First Aid Kit | Vet-Approved Animal Care K…
$34.99 ($0.37 / Count) (as of October 21, 2025 16:40 GMT +00:00 – More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Safely remove maggots, ticks, or splinters without hurting your cat.
Features:
- Surgical-grade stainless steel
- Non-slip grip for precise removal
- Includes multiple tip styles
Pros:
- Easy to disinfect
- Reusable and durable
- Budget-friendly
Cons:
- Requires steady hands
- Best for visible maggots only
2. Vetericyn Plus Antimicrobial Pet Wound Spray
Vetericyn Plus Cat Wound Care Spray | Feline Healing Aid and…
$15.99 ($5.33 / Fl Oz) (as of October 21, 2025 16:40 GMT +00:00 – More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Forticept Hot Spot Treatment and Wound Care Kit for Dogs&Cat…
$34.95 (as of October 21, 2025 16:40 GMT +00:00 – More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)A gentle antiseptic spray designed for pets’ sensitive skin.
Features:
- Safe, non-toxic formula
- Speeds up wound healing
- No sting or burn sensation
Pros:
- Vet-approved
- Safe if licked accidentally
- Works for cats, dogs, and small pets
Cons:
- Slightly higher price than regular sprays
- Needs re-application for deep wounds
Why Only a Vet Can Fully Treat Flystrike
At the clinic, the vet will:
- Clean and debride the wound completely
- Prescribe antiparasitic injections
- Provide antibiotics and pain relief
- Monitor your cat for shock
Curiosity kicker: Did you know some vets have removed over 100 maggots from one wound? That’s how fast infestations can escalate.
Prevention Product
- Adams Plus Flea & Fly Spray for Cats & Home
Protects your cat and home from flies, fleas, and maggots.
Features:
- Kills and repels flies, fleas, and ticks
- Safe for home and pet use
- Fresh scent formula
Pros:
- Long-lasting protection
- Works indoors and outdoors
- Easy spray application
Cons:
- Not safe for kittens under 12 weeks
- Needs re-application every few weeks
ADAMS Plus Flea & Tick Collar for Cats, Breakaway Collar, 1 …
(as of October 21, 2025 16:40 GMT +00:00 – More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
ADAMS Plus Flea & Tick Dog and Cat Spray, Kills Fleas, Ticks…
(as of October 21, 2025 16:39 GMT +00:00 – More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Why You Should Never Rely on Home Treatment Alone
DIY methods (like vinegar or salt) can burn your cat’s skin, push maggots deeper, and delay life-saving treatment. Home care is only to stabilize your cat until you reach the vet.
Key Takeaway
If you see maggots on cats bum, think of yourself as the “first responder.” Your role is to remove what you can safely, clean gently, and rush to the vet. Every minute you wait, the infestation grows — and the risk to your cat’s life increases.
Is It Common for Cats to Get Maggots on Cats Bum?
Most cat parents are stunned when they find maggots on their cat’s bum. The good news? It’s not very common. The bad news? When it happens, it can turn dangerous fast.
Maggots only develop if flies lay eggs on soiled fur, wounds, or dirty litter box areas. This typically happens if:
- Your cat has diarrhoea or constipation and can’t groom properly
- They are elderly, overweight, or long-haired
- The litter box isn’t cleaned often, attracting flies nearby
So while it’s uncommon, certain conditions dramatically raise the risk.
If your cat often has accidents or spends extra time in the litter box, you may want to read:
What are the little flies in my cats litter box? (hidden health warning signs you shouldn’t ignore)
How long can cats hold their pee? (vital for understanding litter box health)
These guides give you extra insights into litter-related behaviours that connect directly to fly strike risks. Since maggots on cats’ bums are uncommon but very serious, prevention is smarter than cure. Here are the most searched-for products cat owners buy to avoid this nightmare:
Recommended products
- Antiseptic Pet Wipes
If your cat gets messy after bathroom time, antiseptic wipes save you from dangerous buildup that attracts flies.
Features:
- Vet-approved, alcohol-free formula
- Safe for daily bum-cleaning
- Removes odour instantly
Pros: Easy to use, prevents infection, keeps cat fresh
Cons: You’ll need a steady supply if your cat has ongoing stomach issues
MiconaHex+Triz Wipes, 2.25″ round for Dogs, Cats and Horses,…
8% Off2. Pet-Safe Fly Repellent Spray
Flies are the root cause of maggot infestations. A safe fly spray creates a protective barrier around your cat’s bedding, litter area, and rest spots.
Features:
- Plant-based, non-toxic formula
- Works indoors & outdoors
- Lasts up to 12 hours
Pros: Stops flies before they land, multipurpose
Cons: Needs reapplication during hot summer days
Wondercide – Indoor Pest Control Spray for Home and Kitchen …
$26.99 ($1.69 / Fl Oz) (as of October 21, 2025 16:40 GMT +00:00 – More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Curiosity Trigger for Readers:
Even indoor cats aren’t fully safe — one stray fly indoors plus an unclean bum is enough to start a maggot problem. That’s why prevention with wipes, sprays, and grooming kits is so critical.
For more prevention tips, you might like:
Gnats in Cat Litter (tiny pests that can lead to bigger problems)
Maggots vs. Worms – Addressing Internal Parasite Confusion
Many cat parents confuse maggots with worms, but they are very different.
- Maggots: Tiny white larvae of flies. They wriggle on the skin, usually appearing near dirty wounds, soiled fur, or around the bum. They eat decaying flesh and cause painful infestations.
- Worms: Internal parasites like roundworms or tapeworms. They live inside your cat’s gut and are seen in poop or vomit, not crawling on the skin.
Why the confusion? Because both are small, white, and disturbing to see. But the treatment is totally different. Maggots need urgent cleaning and removal, while worms need deworming medicines.
Here’s where many cat owners go wrong: They waste time giving deworming tablets when their cat actually has maggots, which keep spreading and can be deadly. That’s why clarity is life-saving.
Recommended products that help you
- Antiseptic Wound Spray (For Maggots Prevention & Cleaning)
Features: Alcohol-free, safe for cats, speeds healing.
Pros: Stops fly eggs from hatching, reduces infection risk.
Cons: Needs daily use, can sting on open wounds.
Vetericyn Plus Cat Wound Care Spray | Feline Healing Aid and…
$15.99 ($5.33 / Fl Oz) (as of October 21, 2025 16:40 GMT +00:00 – More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)2. Cat Deworming Tablets (For Worm Infestations)
Features: Broad-spectrum treatment against roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms.
Pros: Easy to give, works within 24–48 hours.
Cons: Won’t help against maggots (only internal worms).
Elanco Drontal Broad Spectrum Cat and Kittens Dewormer for t…
7% OffTakeaway for Readers:
If you see crawling maggots, focus on cleaning + antiseptic + fly control.
If you see worms in poop, go for deworming tablets.
This distinction can save your cat’s life and save you from costly vet bills later.
Can I Treat My Cat Without a Vet?
Many cat parents wonder if they can skip the vet to save time or money. The truth is: No.
- Using the wrong medication, wrong dosage, or human products can be dangerous.
- Cats have very sensitive livers, and a medicine safe for dogs or humans may poison them.
- Even with home cleaning for maggots, the infection can spread inside the body without vet care.
Recommended Product:
- Profender Topical Dewormer for Cats – a spot-on treatment that kills roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms without forcing your cat to swallow tablets.
Easy to apply | Vet-trusted | Stress-free for cats
Revolution Plus (selamectin and sarolaner Topical Solution) …
$85.71 ($28.57 / Count) (as of October 21, 2025 16:40 GMT +00:00 – More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Do Cats Poop Out Worms After Deworming?
Yes — it’s common to see dead or dying worms in your cat’s stool after deworming. Don’t panic. This shows the medicine is working.
- Sometimes worms appear alive but sluggish; this is still part of the process.
- Your vet may recommend a second dose in 2–3 weeks to kill newly hatched worms.
- Clean the litter box daily to avoid re-infection.
Recommended product for you
- Cat Litter Deodoriser & Hygiene Powder – keeps litter fresh and reduces parasite risks in the box.
Controls odor | Safe for cats | Prevents flies and bacteria buildup
Fresh Step Litter Box Charcoal Odor Eliminating Powder, Unsc…
26% OffCan Humans Catch Cat Worms?
Yes. Some worms like roundworms and hookworms can infect humans. Children are especially at risk because they play near litter boxes or touch soil.
- Roundworm eggs can survive in the environment for months.
- In humans, these worms may cause skin rashes, cough, or organ problems.
Always wash your hands after cleaning the litter box or touching soil where your cat goes.
Recommended product for you
Disposable Litter Box Gloves (100 Pack) – perfect for safe and hygienic litter cleaning.
Protects from germs | Easy to use | Affordable pack for daily use
Leakproof Disposable 2-Pack Cat Litter Box Only – Made in Th…
$24.99 ($12.50 / Count) (as of October 21, 2025 16:40 GMT +00:00 – More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Can Humans Catch Pinworms from Cats?
No — this is a myth. Human pinworms are a completely different species.
- Cats do not spread human pinworms.
- If your child has pinworms, the source is other humans, not your cat.
Recommended Product:
Pet-Safe Antibacterial Hand Wash – keep it near your cat’s area for regular hand cleaning.
Gentle on skin | Safe for kids & pets | Fights parasite germs
Germ-X Antibacterial Hand Soap, Moisturizing Liquid Hand Was…
$9.96 ($0.21 / Fl Oz) (as of October 21, 2025 16:40 GMT +00:00 – More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)FAQs About Maggots on Cats Bum
What exactly is flystrike, and how does it relate to maggots on cats bum?
Flystrike happens when flies lay eggs on a cat’s dirty or wounded skin, leading to maggots on cats bum once they hatch.
How fast do maggots grow on cats bum?
Eggs hatch into maggots within 8–24 hours.
Can maggots on cats bum kill my cat?
Yes. If untreated, they cause infections, tissue damage, and even death.
Is cleanliness enough to prevent maggots on cats bum?
Cleanliness helps, but grooming, wound care, and fly control are also essential.
My cat is scratching near the bum but no maggots are visible. Why?
It could be fleas, allergies, or worms — a vet visit is needed.
My cat seems itchy around their rear, but I don’t see maggots on cats bum. What else could it be?
Itching near the bum can also be caused by feline worms, flea allergies, skin infections, or anal gland issues. A vet exam helps find the real cause.
What are the best maggots on cats bum treatment methods?
The best treatment includes vet debridement, antiparasitic medication, antibiotics, and pain relief. Home care helps temporarily, but only a vet can provide complete maggot treatment for cats.
Can maggots kill a cat naturally?
Sadly, yes. If untreated, maggots on cats bum can spread quickly and release toxins, leading to organ failure or sepsis. This is why flystrike in cats is considered an emergency.
How fast can cats die from maggots?
If left untreated, cats can die in just 1–2 days from flystrike due to rapid tissue damage and bacterial infection. Immediate veterinary help is critical.
Wrapping Up:
Finding maggots on cats bum can feel overwhelming, but the good news is — with quick action, proper hygiene, and vet care, your furry friend has an excellent chance of recovery. Prevention is always easier than treatment, so remember to:
- Keep your cat’s litter box fresh and clean daily.
- Groom long-haired cats and check their rear regularly.
- Use fly control products around your home, especially in hot seasons.
- Schedule regular vet check-ups and deworming treatments to prevent hidden parasites.
Your cat depends on you to notice small changes before they become emergencies. By staying alert and acting fast, you can stop flystrike, worms, and other parasites from endangering your pet.
I hope you gain a lot of knowledge from this guide. Kindly also share it with your family and best community so more cat lovers can protect their pets from this painful condition.
