Mealy worms, food moths, eek! Help!?

Question

Both a buddy and I experienced the same kitchen horror. I left a tin of pricey cat food open overnight, next morning it was crawling with disgusting little white worms (no the cat didn't eat the food.) My buddy had a couple of those very same worms and now she has kitchen moths.

Are these pests related. How do you rid the kitchen of this plague? Thank you.

Answer 1

Yes these pests are related. Thats because they are the same species. The young form looks like worms, and then they eat until ready to cocoon. When they break out, they are fully fledged moths. Of course, thats what I think, but I haven't seen the worms so I can't tell if they are the species I'm thinking of. To get rid of these little beasties, call a local extermination agency. It should only take about an our or even 45 mintues for them to finish with such a small infestation. And besides, the only things you have to worry about are open cans of food.... and possibly your clothes, depending on the species. Mothball time!!!

Answer 2

with your cat food, they sound more like maggots, which turn into flies...  your friend has Indian Meal Moths which the white worm will be a caterpillar.

Your solution, don't leave moist pet food out all night

Your friends solution, get rid of all open packaging of dried food...thoroughly clean the cabinets and pantry especially in dark corners and underside of the shelves.. open all unopened packages to inspect for cocoons developing in the dark. Other items they can be found in as a source are old potpourri...dried floral arrangements...pet treats...bird seed