In late summer and throughout autumn, dog and cat owners should be on the alert against harvest mites (Neotrombicula autumnalis). Harvest mites lurk in meadows, fields and gardens and on the edges of woodland, as well as in damp, sunlit places, waiting for suitable hosts. Animals that become infested by the mites are tormented by itchy skin.

If you want to protect your pet, during the height of the season you should avoid walking your dog in areas where harvest mites live – and keep your cat indoors.

• Beware of the larvae
• Symptoms of infestation
• How to protect your pet

The harvest mite--also known as the autumn grass mite, red bugs, scrub-itch mites, berry bugs or, in their larval stage as chiggers--are related to spiders. It is microscopically small and orange-red in color. Like all mites, it goes through different developmental cycles: an egg develops into a larva, then into a nymph (the 'juvenile') and finally into an adult mite.

It is only the larva that feeds on warm-blooded animals, so it is only a risk to your pet during this stage of its development. The larva is active during the day and especially on dry, sunny days. It particularly affects its hosts on the parts of the body that come into contact with grass or plants: paws, legs, belly, chest and muzzle. There it attaches itself to the animal and begins to feed on it. To do this, it pierces the skin of its host with its small, hook-shaped fangs and injects powerful enzymes that digest the skin cells, which then liquefy and are consumed by the larvae.

Depending on the number of larvae that have settled on the animal, orange-red spots will be visible on the skin. You should also watch out for the following symptoms:^10-12 

• Severe itching as a reaction to the saliva
• Wheals and pustules that resemble mosquito bites
• Inflamed areas of skin marked by redness
• Scabs and pus due to the self-inflicted wounds
• Loss of fur due to intensive scratching at one skin site
• Skin injuries due to severe scratching
• Head shaking and sneezing when ears and nose are affected
• Restlessness and tetchiness as a result of severe itching

If you notice any of the symptoms listed above, it's important to have your pet checked and treated by a veterinarian. Persistent itching can lead to self-inflicted injuries or worsen existing wounds, increasing the risk of infection. A vet can not only provide advice for relief but also recommend effective spot-on repellents — such as sprays, drops, tick treatments or collars to help guard against further infestations.^13-15 

As harvest mite season is here, it's important to stay vigilant. Take time to understand the risks and implement the right precautions. That way, your dog or cat can enjoy the outdoors safely and comfortably.