Overview
Cats who spend time outdoors, especially in the countryside or in gardens with long grass, are at the highest risk of being infested by the larvae of harvest mites (also called chiggers or berry bugs). These tiny orange parasites are more common in regions with chalky soil and areas with damp ground, such as woods or rough grassland. They're most active during dry, sunny days from late summer to early autumn.
The larvae are about 0.2mm long, making them only just visible to the naked eye. They latch onto cats when they brush against infested vegetation and are particularly drawn to areas with thinner skin, such as the ears, tummy, face, neck, shoulders, or between the toes.
What are harvest mites?
How do harvest mites affect cats?
How are harvest mites in cats diagnosed?
How to get rid of harvest mites on cats?
How do I prevent harvest mites in cats?
Cat harvest mite FAQs
Join the club today
Get regular health checks, vaccinations, and more, all included in your plan.
Medically reviewed by Lizzie Youens, BSc(Hons) BVSc MRCVS
Published on 05/09/2024 • Reviewed on 03/09/2025