Did you know that one of the most common causes of ear infections in cats is Otodectes cynotis, more commonly known as ear mites?

These microscopic parasites survive in a cat’s ear canal by feeding on the oils and wax present. The good news is that ear mites are treatable once a veterinarian gets a proper diagnosis. 

Let’s cover everything you must know about ear mites, including the causes, symptoms, treatments, and effective prevention methods to keep your cat comfortable and parasite-free!

What Causes Ear Mites in Cats?

Ear mites are contagious, and cats can easily pick them up by making direct contact with other animals that are already infected. This often happens in places where many animals are kept together. These places include shelters and boarding facilities.

"Otodectes cynotis is one of the most common parasite species that causes ear mite infestations in cats. Their lifecycle is quite short, around just three weeks, but they continuously feed and reproduce, so they multiply quickly in the right environment, like your cat’s ears."

- Dr. Paulina Czerska

Cats can also acquire ear mites through their surroundings because ear mites can live on items like bedding, toys, and grooming tools. They can survive for a long period without a host. The more time your cat spends outdoors, the greater the risk of getting ear mites.

Young kittens are the most vulnerable to ear mite infection. This is because their immune systems against mites are still developing, so they can easily get an infestation.

What Are the Symptoms of Ear Mites in Cats?

Ear mites may not always be easy to spot at first, as some symptoms might resemble other conditions. However, if your cat shows any of these signs over a period of time, it’s likely they have an ear mite infestation.

1. Persistent Scratching

If your cat keeps scratching their ears repeatedly, this is one of the first signs that something might be wrong. Constant scratching can cause wounds, scabs, and infections if not treated immediately. Your cat’s attempts to relieve the itch are an indication that they need help.

2. Frequent Head Shaking

Frequent head shaking is another common sign of ear mites in cats. Your pet may move their head vigorously or tilt it to one side as if trying to get rid of something irritating inside their ear.

3. Dark, Crumbly Discharge

Another sign of ear mites is a dark, crumbly discharge in the ears that looks like coffee grounds. This discharge is a mixture of earwax, blood, and debris left by the mites. If you notice this, your cat could already have an infestation.

4. Redness and Swelling

As the mites cause irritation, the ears will likely become red and swollen. The inflammation can become quite noticeable, and you may see your cat’s ears appear reddish or puffy.

5. Hair Loss Around the Ears

Constant scratching and rubbing of the ears can lead to hair loss around the affected area. You may notice bald patches or thinning fur. The area may also have small wounds or scabs from your cat trying to soothe the irritation. 

6. Sensitivity and Pain

If your cat pulls away or becomes aggressive when you touch their ears, they may be experiencing significant discomfort. This is a clear sign of pain, and it could mean that the ear mites have caused more severe irritation or even a secondary infection.

7. Behavioral Changes

Cats are creatures of habit, and changes in behavior can signal that something is wrong. If your usually playful cat becomes timid and irritable or avoids interactions, it could be due to the discomfort caused by ear mites. 

How Do Vets Diagnose Ear Mites?

If you notice any of the signs listed above, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian. We don’t recommend diagnosing your cat at home or trying home remedies, as this could aggravate your cat’s condition.

A veterinarian can diagnose ear mites accurately using an instrument called an otoscope. It’s used to examine the inside of your cat’s ears and identify ear mites.

In some cases, veterinarians take a sample of the ear discharge to examine under a microscope. Through this method, we can confirm the presence of ear mites in a cat. The quicker and earlier ear mites are spotted, the easier it will be to treat them and prevent further complications.

How Are Ear Mites in Cats Treated?

Ear mite treatment options are straightforward if your cat has been diagnosed with ear mites. Oftentimes, ear mite infestations can be managed with simple solutions, but it’s important to follow your veterinarian’s instructions and guidance carefully.

• Topical Treatments —The most common treatment for ear mites 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, your vet may recommend oral or injectable medications. These treatments are used for severe ear mite infestations in cats that have spread beyond the ear canal. 

• Secondary Infection Treatments — Ear mites often cause secondary bacterial or fungal infections in the ear. If your cat’s ear shows signs of infection, your vet may prescribe additional treatments like antibiotics or antifungal medications. These will treat infections and prevent them from getting worse.

• Home Cleaning — Since ear mites can survive in your cat’s environment, cleaning your home thoroughly is important to prevent your cat from getting infected again. Wash your cat’s bedding, toys, and other items they come into contact with. Vacuum and clean common areas as well to get rid of ear mites in your home.

What happens when ear mites are left untreated?

Untreated ear mite infestations in cats can cause many serious diseases, including ear infections, hearing loss, ruptured eardrums, and skin infections. Prolonged infestation can lead to permanent hearing problems and balance issues in cats.

How Fast Can Cats Recover from Ear Mites?

With the proper diagnosis and treatment, cats can recover from ear mites in two to three weeks. This will still depend on whether the infestation is severe or not. 

Most of the medications we administer quickly kill ear mites. However, cats may require follow-up treatments to fully eliminate them.

While your cat is recovering, you can expect:

• The irritation and itching may continue for a couple of days, even after treatment. This is completely normal as your cat’s body is eliminating dead mites and healing from the damage.

• Your cat may take a longer time to fully recover if the vet detects and treats secondary infections or injury from excessive scratching.

• Your vet will schedule a follow-up consultation after the treatment period to check if there are still sites of ear mites in your cat’s ears.

Remember, consistent and proper administration of the medication we prescribe is just one of the factors that will determine your cat’s fast recovery. You must also clean your environment and follow other instructions to completely get rid of the ear mites.

Can humans get ear mites from cats?

You don’t need to worry about getting ear mites from your cats because this is very rare. However, without proper hygiene and cleanliness in the home, it is possible that ear mites can cause skin irritation in humans, but it usually goes away on its own.

How to Prevent Ear Mites in Cats

The best way to deal with ear mites is to prevent them from appearing in the first place. There’s no guarantee that it will be completely risk-free, but we listed tips to help significantly reduce the chances of your cat getting ear mites. 

• Schedule Routine Checkups — Routine checkups are key to keeping your cat healthy and preventing ear mites from becoming problematic. Your vet will examine your cat’s ears during each visit and spot any early signs of infestation.

• Clean Ears Regularly — Regular ear cleaning is one of the easiest ways to prevent ear mites. Use a gentle ear-cleaning solution that’s been prescribed by your vet. This should remove wax buildup and debris from your cat’s ears. If you’re unsure how to clean your cat’s ears, it’s best to leave it to professional groomers or your vet.

• Maintain a Clean Home — Ear mites can live in your home’s environment, so keeping your living space clean is important. Regularly wash and sanitize your cat’s bedding and blankets. Vacuum and wipe down areas where your cat spends a lot of time.

• Limit Exposure to High-Risk Animals — Limiting your cat’s exposure to other animals, especially those that spend time outdoors, can reduce the risk of ear mites. If you adopt another pet or bring one into your home, have them checked for ear mites before introducing them to your cat.

• Give Preventive Medications — In some cases, your vet may recommend preventive treatments for ear mites, such as flea and tick medications that also target ear mites. Always consult your vet regarding parasite management to help your cat avoid not only ear mites but other parasites as well.

Conclusion

Ear mites in cats are a common problem, but with the right knowledge and care, these parasites can be managed easily and quickly. 

Recognize the signs of ear mites early to get the problem treated immediately. Some of the symptoms you must watch out for include redness of the ears and discharges that appear like coffee grounds.

Remember that your cat relies on you for comfort and care, so you should understand what is best for your feline companion. If you’re a new pet owner, seek guidance from your veterinarian to know the steps you need to take to ensure your pet can live a long and comfortable life.