When rescuers found the tiny kitten, she looked weak, thin, and unusually lethargic for her age. At first glance, it was hard to tell what was wrong—until they noticed a small, inflamed hole on her neck. Upon closer inspection, the rescuers realized the kitten was hosting an uninvited guest: a Cuterebra larva. These parasites are the larvae of botflies and can burrow beneath the skin of animals, feeding off their tissue and causing pain, infection, and swelling.
The sight was heartbreaking. This kitten was so young, so small, and clearly in distress. The larva inside her had grown shockingly large, almost too big for her tiny frame. Every move she made seemed to cause discomfort. She had been quietly suffering, and without intervention, the infection could’ve become life-threatening.
Carefully and gently, rescuers prepared to remove the Cuterebra. It had to be done with extreme caution—if the larva was crushed or pulled the wrong way, it could release toxins or cause further damage. With sterile tools and steady hands, they widened the wound just enough to grasp the squirming parasite. Slowly but surely, the thick, wriggling larva was removed from the kitten’s body.
The relief was instant. Though the wound was still tender, the kitten seemed to perk up within minutes of the removal. Her rescuers cleaned the area thoroughly and began a regimen of antibiotics to prevent infection. Over the next few days, her appetite returned, her energy improved, and for the first time in a while, she began to play.
Seeing such a huge, disgusting parasite come out of such a small, fragile body was shocking—but what was even more amazing was the kitten’s strength. She endured quietly, trusted her humans, and began to heal with incredible resilience. Thanks to the fast-acting rescue team, this sweet little soul was given a second chance—and she took it with all the strength her tiny paws could carry.
