Any warm-blooded animal can get infected with the New World screwworm including cats and dogs.Dr. Danielle Wallek, veterinarian with Animal Medical Corpus Christi says pet owners should check their animals for any wounds that m ight have larvae, but also check around the eyes, nose and ears where mucus membranes could be affected.The good news, Wallek said, is that many preventative medicines pets might already be on can protect against the New World screwworm."Several of the preventions now do cover it, some of the oral preventions for dogs and cats. Bravecto, Nexgard, Simparica, Credelio, there are several options," Wallek said.If left untreated, the screwworm can be deadly. Wallek says that is why it is important to check your pet and bring them to the vet if you suspect they may be infected.This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.For the latest local news updates, click here, or download the KRIS 6 News App. Catch all the KRIS 6 News stories and more on our YouTube page. Subscribe today! ...read more read less