Our cats' ears are precious little things that need to be protected. These special hearing instruments are vulnerable to plenty of issues, including bacterial and fungal overgrowth. However, there’s also another major problem that should be carefully monitored, ear mites.
To get started, we’ll cover everything you need to know about ear mites in cats, from how they’re caused to how they are prevented. But first, let’s discover what ear mites are.
What Are Ear Mites in Cats?
The scientific name for ear mites in cats is Otodectes cynotis.
Ear mites are tiny parasites that live in a cat’s ear canal and skin, causing intense irritation, itching, and inflammation. These microscopic parasites survive in a cat’s ear canal by feeding on the oils and wax present.
While these are not life-threatening parasites, they can cause extreme discomfort and pave the way for secondary infections that can be severe. When left untreated, the condition can rupture the eardrums and lead to hearing loss.
How Do Cats Get Ear Mites?
These microscopic organisms can easily get into your cat’s ears and cause some problems. Here are a few ways they do:
Direct Contact. Ear mites are contagious, and cats can easily pick them up by making direct contact with other infected animals. This often happens in places where many animals are kept together, such as shelters and boarding facilities.
Contaminated Spaces. Cats can also contract ear mites through their surroundings, including bedding, toys, and grooming tools. They can survive for a limited time without a host. Kittens are at a much higher risk.
Can Humans Get Ear Mites From Cats?
While humans can get ear mites from cats, it’s not that common. Ear mites mostly prefer to live on animals such as dogs and cats. So, at the very worst, the most these parasites can do is cause a little rash on humans.
Are Cats Prone to Ear Mites?
Young kittens are highly vulnerable to ear mites and many other parasites. This is mostly due to how their immune systems are still underdeveloped. Additionally, cats that always stay in crowded boarding facilities, untidy daycare centers, and unsanitized grooming salons will be at risk.
What Are the Symptoms of Ear Mites in Cats?
These parasites are tiny, but the signs of an ear mite infestation are hard to miss. Once your cat gets affected, here are the signs you’ll notice:
Persistent Scratching. You might see your cat excessively scratching its ears with its paws or furniture. Too much scratching can only lead to wounds, scabs, and secondary infections.
Hair Loss Around the Ears. If your cat scratches too much, this might lead to hair loss in these areas. This might look like patches of thinning fur or bald patches.
Frequent Head Shaking. If your cat frequently shakes its head, it can be a sign of ear mites. It looks as if the cat is trying to shake something off its ear.
Dark, Crumbly Discharge. Dark, crumbly discharge in a cat’s ears that looks like coffee grounds is another sign. This is a mixture of earwax, blood, and debris left by the mites.
Redness and Swelling. The more damage the ear mites cause, the more the ears will become red, inflamed, and swollen. In severe cases, they can appear puffy.
Sensitivity and Pain. If your cat pulls away or becomes aggressive when you touch their ears, it might be a sign.
Behavioral Changes. If your cat's behavior changes, it can mean that something is causing it stress and anxiety. Since they're cats, the changes won't be too drastic, so it's important to notice the smallest signs.
Severe Symptoms. Severe ear infections, hearing loss, and ruptured eardrums are possible if the condition is left untreated.
How Do Our Vets Diagnose Ear Mites in Cats?
Diagnosing the problem will start with a physical exam. Our vets carefully examine your cat's symptoms and the other clues we can get. If your cat has very sore or sensitive ears, then we may need to sedate them so we can safely check these areas.
Next, we'll use an otoscope to check your cat's ear canal. The light from this tool can also help us see any mite activity present. We may also use a cotton swab to collect some debris for microscopic examination.
The sample examined will allow our vets to see ear mites and the eggs. Plus, this approach also helps us identify any signs of secondary infections by detecting the presence of bacteria or fungi. This step is important since secondary infections are common complications in cats with ear mites.
What Is the Best Treatment for Ear Mites in Cats?
Treating ear mites in cats is straightforward and simple. The options will make use of medications and ear cleaning at the clinic and at home.
Medications
Topical Treatments. The most common treatment involves applying medication directly to the affected ear. These treatments are usually in the form of drops or ointments that target the mites directly and kill them on contact.
Oral or Injectable Medications. In some cases, we may recommend oral or injectable medications. These treatments are given for systemic cases.
Secondary Infection Treatments. Ear mites often lead to secondary bacterial or fungal infections. So, if your cat also has an ear infection, then we may add more medications like antibiotics and antifungals.
Cats can typically recover from ear mites in two to three weeks of regular medications and treatment.
Ear Cleaning
Home remedies for ear mites in cats are generally not recommended. Some cats may have inflamed or damaged ear canals that require special handling or medicated products.
If you want to clean your cat’s ears, then you’ll have to ask our vets for the proper way to do it, as well as the right products. Here’s a general guideline:
Keep Your Cat Stable
Wrap your cat in a burrito style, leaving just the head exposed. This prevents any accidental scratching or sudden jumps.
Apply the Cleaner
Hold your cat’s ears gently and squeeze a few drops of cleaner into the ear canal. Follow the vet’s instructions for this part.
Massage the Ears
Gently massage the base of your cat’s ear for about 20 seconds. Doing this will help the solution make contact with the debris and break it down.
Wipe Away the Debris
The next step is to wipe away the loosened debris using a cotton ball. Never wipe deep in the ear as this can cause damage.
Recovery for Cats With Ear Mites
Cats can typically recover from ear mites in 3 to 4 weeks of medications and regular ear cleaning. Following the medication schedule is an important part of the treatment process, even if the cat’s condition starts to improve within just a few days.
During this time, take the time to take note of the changes. After the treatment schedule, we also recommend that you bring your cat to the clinic so we can do a final checkup of their ears and to see if the treatment was effective in clearing the problem.
Vet Tips: How to Prevent Ear Mites in Cats
The best advice we can give is to protect your cat from ear mites. Luckily, the process is simple and easy. It just needs a bit of knowledge and a lot of commitment.
Schedule Routine Checkups
Routine checkups are great for identifying problems early on. We recommended them so our vets can provide the regular treatments your cat needs, such as deworming and vaccinations.
Clean Ears Regularly
Regular ear cleaning is the best way to prevent ear mites in cats. Use a gentle ear-cleaning solution that’s been prescribed by our vets. If you need help, we can show you how or professionally clean your cat’s ears at the clinic.
Maintain a Clean Home
Since these parasites can live in the home environment, keeping your cat’s space clean is important. Regularly wash bedding, pillows, and their litter box. Always take the time to clean.
Limit Exposure to High-Risk Animals
Limit your cat’s activity outside. If your cat really loves to spend time outdoors, be sure to supervise them every step of the way. If you’re bringing in new pets, make sure they’re not experiencing anything contagious.
Give Preventive Medications
In some cases, we may recommend preventive treatments, such as flea and tick medications that also target ear mites.
“Healthy ears mean a happier cat. Comfort starts when the itching ends.”
- Dr. Paulina Czerska
Final Thoughts
Ear mites in cats are a common problem, but they’re easily treatable and manageable. With the right knowledge and care, you can save your cat a whole lot of trouble. Remember that our cats rely on us for their care, so let’s do everything we can to keep them happy and healthy.
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